How does row-level security (RLS) work in Power BI?
Row-Level Security (RLS) in Power BI
RLS allows you to use a single report to serve multiple users while ensuring each person only sees the data rows they are authorized to view.
1. Static RLS (Fixed Roles)
You define specific roles (e.g., "East Region") and hardcode a DAX filter for that role. This is best for small organizations with roles that rarely change.
2. Dynamic RLS (Identity-Based)
The most scalable method. Power BI identifies the logged-in user and matches them against a "Security Mapping Table" using DAX functions.
In 2026, USERPRINCIPALNAME() is the standard for matching organizational emails in the cloud.
The 4-Step RLS Workflow
| Phase | Action | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Define | Create roles and DAX filters in "Manage Roles". | Power BI Desktop |
| 2. Test | Validate filters using "View as Roles". | Power BI Desktop |
| 3. Publish | Upload the PBIX file to your workspace. | Cloud Service |
| 4. Assign | Map specific users/AD groups to the roles. | Semantic Model Security |
Key Constraints & Best Practices
Role Permissions
RLS only applies to "Viewers." If a user is an Admin, Member, or Contributor in the workspace, RLS is bypassed.
Bi-Directional Filtering
Be careful with bi-directional relationships; they can lead to security "leaks" or performance bottlenecks if not configured to "Apply security filter in both directions."
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