TenantPilotGet TenantPilot ↗
← All Microsoft 365 guidesEDISCOVERY · EXPORT

How to export Microsoft Purview eDiscovery search results

After an eDiscovery content search, an authorised reviewer may need to export matching items for an investigation or a subject access request. Export is a distinct step from searching and should be approved and controlled.

MICROSOFT 365 REFERENCE GUIDE · NOT AN APP FEATURE · Fictional examples · Updated October 2026

Before exporting

  • Confirm the export is authorised and within the documented purpose.
  • Check eDiscovery permissions and licensing, including export-specific privileges.
  • Agree where evidence will be stored and who may access it.
  • Plan how to handle partially indexed items and data from different workloads.

Export from the current Purview interface

  1. Sign in to the Microsoft Purview portal with an authorised eDiscovery account.
  2. Open the relevant case, go to Searches and select the search query.
  3. Review its scope, statistics and samples before proceeding.
  4. Choose Export and set the relevant export options for this case.
  5. Monitor the export in the process manager and download it to approved secure storage.
  6. Record the search, export time, people involved and file-handling decisions.

How long do export packages remain available?

Microsoft currently says search export packages expire after 14 days. Do not rely on a long-lived download URL; collect exports through your approved process and protect the resulting data. Export options and licensing can change, so consult Microsoft’s current guidance.

Is exporting the same as fulfilling a DSAR?

No. Exports can contain third-party information, unrelated records or material that needs review. For a DSAR or Subject Access Request, carry out the appropriate privacy and legal review before any disclosure.

Where TenantPilot fits

TenantPilot does not currently perform eDiscovery exports. This is specialist Microsoft Purview guidance and should be undertaken by your authorised compliance or IT team.

Further reading and official guidance

Microsoft services and interfaces can change. Check the linked official guidance before making changes in a live organisation.

Looking for everyday Microsoft 365 help too?

TenantPilot helps with supported routine administration tasks, but it does not run eDiscovery, data-subject searches or legal-disclosure workflows. For those tasks use Microsoft Purview and your authorised specialists.

See TenantPilot in Microsoft Store ↗

Always follow your organisation’s permissions, privacy and IT support procedures.