The Hidden Costs of Free - Why Microsoft 365’s Native Security Features May Not Be the Value They Seem

As more and more organisations make the move to Microsoft 365, the software giant is pitching the platform as a way to consolidate security, compliance and e-discovery. It promises advanced threat protection, data protection and an online archive that’s all about privacy and meeting robust data-retention requirements. And it’s all included in your 365 subscription plan. How could anyone turn down that offer?

It may seem like a no-brainer. Why spend more money on third-party email security or archiving when it comes as part of your Microsoft licence? Aren’t all email, cloud and compliance solutions pretty much the same? The answers to those questions aren’t as simple as they seem. Microsoft security might be fine for some purposes. But it could also lead to problems and cost more than you expect. That’s because not all advanced threat protection or compliance archiving solutions are created equal.

Think about the differences between a camping tent and a house. Both can keep you dry during a sudden rain shower. But in a winter storm with gale-force winds, only one of them will make a good shelter. In the same way, an advanced email security solution can provide better security and compliance defences in today’s stormy cybersecurity environment. Microsoft 365’s native offerings just may not offer the level of security and compliance you need.