OLS stands for object level security. It is used to restrict access to specific tables or columns in a Power BI semantic model.
Object level security, OLS
Object level security is a Power BI security feature that can hide specific tables or columns from certain users.
Quick facts about object level security
Hides model objects
OLS can restrict access to objects in the semantic model, such as tables or columns.
Different from RLS
Row level security controls which rows a user can see. Object level security controls whether certain tables or columns are visible at all.
Supports sensitive data control
OLS can help protect fields that should not be exposed to every report audience, such as salary, margin or personal data.
Relevant to shared reports
When Power BI reports are shared with different audiences, OLS can help keep sensitive model details hidden.
When some fields should not be visible
Object level security is useful when users can access a report or model, but should not see every table or column behind it. Instead of only filtering rows, OLS can remove access to specific parts of the model.
OLS can help protect objects such as:
- Sensitive financial columns
- Personal or employee data
- Internal margin fields
- Tables meant only for certain roles
This makes OLS useful when a Power BI model serves several audiences. Users can work with the report experience they need, while sensitive objects stay hidden from roles that should not access them.
Security is not only about rows
Some reporting risks sit at the column or table level. A customer may be allowed to see their own performance data, but not internal margin fields. A partner may need selected reporting views, but not the full model behind them.
Object level security helps make that separation clearer inside the Power BI model. Skald BI helps with the delivery layer around finished Power BI reports, giving customers, partners and internal users secure access through a branded portal designed for controlled report sharing.
Use cases
See how different types of organisations use Skald BI to share Power BI securely with employees, customers and partners.
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Frequently asked questions
What does OLS mean in Power BI?
What is object level security used for?
Object level security is used when certain users should not see specific tables or columns, even if they can access the report or model.
What is the difference between OLS and RLS?
OLS controls access to tables and columns. RLS controls access to rows of data based on the user or role.
Why is OLS useful in shared reporting?
OLS helps protect sensitive model fields when reports or models are used by different roles, departments, customers or partners.
How does OLS relate to Skald BI?