Power Platform File Storage Options

Introduction

Power Platform offers various file storage options, each catering to different needs and preferences. Choosing the right file storage option is crucial for ensuring seamless integration, security, and scalability. In this review we’ll explore the strengths and limitations of key file storage options – Dataverse, SharePoint, Azure Blob Storage, and Network Drive. 

Dataverse

Dataverse is a cloud-based storage solution tailored for seamless integration within the Power Platform ecosystem. It provides a unified and scalable data platform. With robust role-based security controls, and a built-in relational data structure, Dataverse is an excellent choice for solutions deeply integrated into Power Platform. 

Pros:

• Seamless integration with Power Platform.
• Robust security control and data governance.
• Built-in relational data structure.
• Easy to use, compliant, secure, and globally available.
• Role-based security and row-level security features.
• Continuous automatic systems backups for data integrity.

Cons:

• Limited storage capacity with potential additional costs.
• Files accessible only within the context of Power Apps.

Integration effort: Easy to moderate depending upon specific security requirements, built-in connectors and integration with Power Apps and Power Automate.

Pricing: Among the pricier options, pricing varies per capacity.

Sharepoint

SharePoint stands out as a versatile and scalable file storage option that provides great integration with Power Platform and various other Microsoft services. With an extensive range of features, it enables options for customizations and secure collaboration. 

Pros:

• Integration with Power Platform and other Microsoft services.
• Scalable with unlimited file storage (250 GB file size limit).
• User-friendly interface with customizable settings.
• Great solution for secure file collaboration.
• Permissions can be given to individuals, groups, or the entire organization.

Cons:

• Requires careful planning for document organization and security.
• Difficulty in implementing row-level security.
• List view threshold.
• Managed independently.

Integration effort: Easy to moderate; built-in connectors; requires site security/access planning.

Pricing: Cost-effective, included in Office license.

Azure Blob Storage

Azure Blob Storage excels in scalability and cost-effectiveness, making it a top choice for large-scale document storage within Power Platform. It offers high availability, durability, and strong data security.

Pros:

• Cost-effective for large-scale document storage.
• Highly scalable, durable, and high availability.
• Strong data security and encryption.

Cons:

• Managed independently.
• Requires more development effort and configuration.
• Less user-friendly.

Integration effort: moderate to high; built-in connectors, steeper learning curve for non-technical users.

Pricing: cost-effective, with pricing variations.

Network Drive

Network drive provides a simple and cost-effective file storage option, particularly suited for organizations with existing infrastructure. It’s straightforward to use for long-term storage, but it may come with limitations in security, scalability, and remote access.

Pros:

• Simple and straightforward.
• Low cost with existing network infrastructure.
• Effective for long-term storage.

Cons:

• Limited security and access control.
• Limited scalability and remote access.
• No document management features.
• May not be suitable for sensitive documents.

Integration effort: low to moderate; built-in connectors; requires on-premises gateway configuration.

Pricing: Minimal for existing infrastructure

Other Options

Built-in connectors for popular file storage applications such as Box, OneDrive for Business, Dropbox, and Google Drive, offer additional flexibility for file sharing and collaboration within Power Platform. These options provide diverse choices for organizations looking to integrate with Power Platform based on their specific preferences and requirements.