Comparison // Purview
FileSentinel vs Microsoft Purview
Microsoft Purview is an enterprise data governance suite. FileSentinel is a local Windows scanner. They solve related problems at very different scales.
Different scales
Enterprise suite vs local app
Microsoft Purview is a broad, cloud-based data governance and compliance platform aimed at organisations, typically larger ones, managing data across Microsoft 365 and beyond with centralised policy.
FileSentinel is a single Windows app that scans the files on a machine or share for sensitive data, on-device, with no cloud tenant. It is built for individuals and small teams who want fast, private discovery and cleanup.
At a glance
How they compare
| Dimension | Microsoft Purview | FileSentinel |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Enterprise data governance suite | Local Windows scanner |
| Where it runs | Cloud-based, org-wide | On-device, per machine |
| Setup | Tenant, licensing, policy config | Install one app |
| Best for | Large orgs with M365 estates | Individuals and small teams |
| Data handling | Managed in the cloud platform | Stays on your device |
Complementary, often
When to reach for FileSentinel
If you need centralised, organisation-wide governance, Purview is the heavyweight built for it. If you want to scan a specific Windows machine or share quickly and privately, without a tenant or policy project, FileSentinel is the lighter, local-first fit, and the two can coexist.
Related
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Questions & answers
FAQ
Is FileSentinel a Microsoft Purview replacement?
Not for enterprise-wide governance. FileSentinel covers local, on-device discovery and cleanup on Windows; Purview is a broad cloud platform for organisation-wide data governance. They suit different scales and can be used together.
Do I need a Microsoft 365 tenant for FileSentinel?
No. FileSentinel is a standalone Windows app with no tenant or cloud service required.
Which is more private for the data being scanned?
FileSentinel keeps scanning on the device with no uploads. Purview manages data within its cloud platform.
Which is simpler to start with?
FileSentinel installs from the Microsoft Store and runs immediately; Purview involves tenant licensing and policy configuration.
Get FileSentinel
FileSentinel vs Microsoft Purview DLP
Install FileSentinel from the Microsoft Store and scan your files for sensitive data, all on your Windows PC with nothing uploaded.