SharePoint Embedded Overview: Explanation and Key Features

Last Updated on November 19, 2024

Are you familiar with SharePoint Embedded?

In this guide, let’s talk about SharePoint Embedded, what it really is, what its key features are, and many more.

Let’s get started.

Table of Contents:

What is SharePoint Embedded?

The short of it is this:

It’s a specialized version of SharePoint for developers to build and integrate document storage capabilities into apps.

Here’s what makes SharePoint Embedded different:

Technically, it leverages the power of Microsoft 365 services while providing simplified, API-based access.

SharePoint Embedded empowers app creators to integrate secure and scalable file management without extra overhead.

Its setup ensures seamless operation for business-critical or customer-facing workflows.

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Simply speaking, SharePoint Embedded is built to simplify file storage for apps.

Here are its features:

Feature	Description	Benefit
API-Only Access	Operates entirely through Microsoft Graph APIs.	Simplifies integration into custom applications.
Seamless Microsoft 365 Integration	Works effortlessly with tools like Teams and OneDrive.	Enhances compatibility across the ecosystem.
Dedicated Storage Partitions	Provides isolated storage for each SharePoint Embedded app and its data.	Improves data security and organization.
File Storage Containers Support	Allows structured grouping of files within storage.	Eases file management and retrieval processes.
Enhanced Security and Compliance	Integrates with Microsoft Purview for compliance features like eDiscovery and DLP.	Ensures robust data protection and regulatory adherence.
Scalability for Enterprise Applications	Designed to handle large-scale enterprise needs with high availability.	Supports growth and complex workloads.
Customizable User Experiences	Enables developers to create tailored interfaces for specific SharePoint Embedded applications.	Offers flexibility in user interface design.
Cost-Effective Storage Solutions	Utilizes a pay-as-you-go model for storage and API calls.	Provides budget-friendly options for businesses.

As you can see, these features cater to modern development needs.

Aside from its API-only functionality and custom storage setup, it’s part of the Microsoft 365 family.

That means it’s already built for compatibility with essential business tools.

Microsoft SharePoint Embedded shines in specific applications where secure and scalable file storage is necessary.

Here are popular use cases:

Ideal for internal business tools requiring document upload and retrieval features.
A go-to choice for software vendors needing reliable backend storage for their applications.
Enables secure file sharing and document uploads in customer portals.
Supports shared environments for research, design, or document collaboration.

Developers often use it to power innovative solutions for businesses and customers.

For example, HR platforms can use it for resume storage, while e-commerce apps can handle invoices and order confirmations.

It also ensures seamless scalability for SharePoint Embedded apps growing in complexity and user base.

Setting up SharePoint Embedded is straightforward for app developers familiar with Microsoft tools.

The steps include:

To activate it in the tenant, you must go to the SharePoint admin center settings (shown below):

Unfortunately, if you don’t see “SharePoint Embedded” as in the image above, then it’s not available for your tenant.

But if you have it, make sure to test the environment thoroughly to ensure smooth operation for your intended use case.

Do you have any questions about SharePoint Embedded and its key features? Let me know below.

For any business-related queries or concerns, contact me through the contact form. I always reply.