In a previous blog post, I explored the differences between Power BI Desktop and Power BI Desktop RS (Report Server). These two versions cater to distinct user needs, cloud-based reporting versus on-premises reporting.
But the story doesn’t end there. Within the regular Power BI Desktop, there are also two flavours:
- Power BI Desktop (Store Version)
- Power BI Desktop (Download Version)
These flavours, though similar in functionality, offer different features and experiences. In this blog, we’ll examine why these two versions exist, how they differ, and which version might suit your needs and why you might want both.
Why Are There Two Versions?
Microsoft introduced the Microsoft Store Version and the Downloaded Version to provide flexibility for different user scenarios. Each version addresses specific challenges related to updates, deployment, and compatibility.
- Microsoft Store Version: Simplifies the installation and update process by leveraging the Microsoft Store’s automatic update mechanism.
- Downloaded Version: Offers manual control over updates and compatibility, allowing users to install and retain specific versions.
Key Differences Between the Two Versions
| Feature | Microsoft Store Version | Downloaded Version |
|---|---|---|
| Updates | Automatically updated via the Microsoft Store. | Manual updates; users must download and install new versions. |
| Installation | Simplified; just one click from the Microsoft Store. | Requires downloading an installer from the Power BI website. |
| Version Control | Always the latest version available. | Older versions can be retained for compatibility. |
| IT Management | Ideal for managed environments (e.g., enterprise devices). | Provides flexibility for organisations needing control over updates. |
| System Requirements | Requires Windows 10 or higher. | Compatible with older versions of Windows. |
| Account Dependencies | Tied to the Microsoft Store account. | Independent of any store account. |
Who Should Use Which Version?
Choosing between the Microsoft Store version and the Downloaded version of Power BI Desktop depends on your specific needs and workflow preferences. Each version is designed to cater to different user groups, offering unique advantages for individual users, organisations, and developers. Below is a breakdown of who will benefit most from each version.
Microsoft Store Version Best for:
- Individual Users: If you want the latest features and updates without hassle, this is the easiest option.
- IT-Managed Environments: Organisations using tools like Windows Autopilot for app deployment will find this version easier to manage.
- Beginner or Casual Users: Installation and updates are seamless, making it ideal for non-technical users.
Downloaded Version Best for:
- Advanced Users and Developers: Offers flexibility for testing and compatibility with legacy systems.
- Enterprise Environments: If your organisation needs strict control over updates or uses older workflows, this version is ideal.
- Offline Use: Suitable for environments where the Microsoft Store is not accessible.
Use Cases for Each Version
The Microsoft Store and Downloaded versions of Power BI Desktop cater to different organisational and individual needs. Their strengths align with specific use cases, particularly when it comes to governance policies, system administration rules, and organisational IT environments. Understanding these factors is key to choosing the right version; or leveraging both effectively.
Microsoft Store Version
The Microsoft Store version of Power BI Desktop is ideal for environments where simplicity and convenience are prioritised. It seamlessly integrates with the Microsoft ecosystem, making it particularly useful in modern IT setups.
- Seamless Updates: Automatically ensures you are running the latest version, eliminating the need for manual intervention. This is especially valuable for users or teams that don’t want to worry about checking for updates regularly.
- Ease of Access: Ideal for environments where the Microsoft Store is allowed and integrated into workflows. It provides a hassle-free experience for day-to-day use.
Downloaded Version
The Downloaded version of Power BI Desktop is often preferred by organisations with stricter governance policies and system administration rules. Many IT environments restrict or completely block access to the Microsoft Store for valid reasons, including:
- Security Concerns: Organisations may limit access to the Microsoft Store to prevent unauthorised installations of unapproved apps, reducing security vulnerabilities.
- Controlled Software Ecosystem: Restricting access ensures that only IT-approved software is installed on corporate devices, maintaining a predictable and secure environment.
In such cases, the Downloaded version becomes the sole option for installing and managing Power BI Desktop. Beyond this, it also caters to specific governance and operational requirements:
- Governance Policies for Change Testing: Many organisations mandate rigorous testing of new versions of software before deployment. These tests ensure that updates do not disrupt workflows, conflict with existing systems, or introduce bugs. With the Downloaded version, IT teams can control when updates are applied, allowing them to test new features thoroughly before rolling them out to end users.
- Legacy Systems Compatibility: In organisations running older systems or workflows, the Downloaded version allows users to install and retain older builds of Power BI Desktop, ensuring compatibility with legacy projects and environments.
- Offline Environments: In some organisations, especially those operating in air-gapped or low-connectivity environments, the Microsoft Store is inaccessible. The Downloaded version supports these use cases, enabling software installation and updates through manual processes.
- Customised Deployment: IT administrators can bundle specific versions of the Downloaded Power BI Desktop into broader software packages and deploy them using automation tools like Microsoft Intune.
Why Some Users May Need Both Versions
Advanced users in organisations can gain benefits from installing both the Microsoft Store and Downloaded versions of Power BI Desktop side-by-side:
- Feature Testing: Developers and testers can test features in a newer release (updated automatically in the Store version) while retaining an older, stable version through the Downloaded version for comparison and compatibility checks.
- Fallback Option: In case an automatic update introduces bugs or disrupts workflows, the Downloaded version acts as a reliable backup to ensure uninterrupted work.
- Managing Multiple Corporate Projects: By using separate accounts in each version of Power BI Desktop, developers can streamline their workflow and boost productivity, especially when working on multiple projects that require different credentials or environments.
Conclusion
Power BI Desktop’s two flavours (Store and Download) reflect Microsoft’s efforts to meet diverse user needs. The Store version is perfect for users who value simplicity and convenience, while the Downloaded version provides greater control for advanced users and organisations with more strict governance rules. Some professionals may even find value in using both versions side-by-side to cover all their bases.
Pro Tip: If you choose to install both versions, consider customising their icons to make them easier to distinguish. I will cover this topic in a separate blog.
For more insights into Power BI Desktop and its variations, check out my earlier post: Power BI Desktop Versions Demystified: Part 1.
Which version do you use, and why? Let’s continue the discussion in the comments!
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