Microsoft 365 Business offers essential tools for small to medium-sized businesses, but there are some advanced features missing compared to higher-tier plans like Business Premium and Enterprise.
1. Advanced Security Features
While Microsoft 365 Business provides strong security, it lacks the advanced features available in higher plans:
- Advanced Threat Protection (ATP): Safeguard against malware and phishing attacks, only available in Business Premium.
- Conditional Access: This allows organizations to control access to data based on specific conditions like user and device type.
- Microsoft Defender for Office 365: Enhanced threat protection features are exclusive to higher-tier plans.
2. Device Management and Microsoft Intune
Microsoft 365 Business lacks full device management options:
- Microsoft Intune: This is available in Business Premium, enabling businesses to manage mobile devices and apps with greater flexibility.
- Mobile Device Management (MDM): Higher plans offer enhanced MDM for secure device management across your workforce.
3. Advanced Analytics and Power BI
Advanced business intelligence tools are not included in Microsoft 365 Business:
- Power BI Pro: Available in Business Premium and Enterprise plans, this tool provides powerful data visualization and reporting capabilities.
4. Email Archiving and Compliance Features
When it comes to compliance and data retention, Microsoft 365 Business offers fewer features than premium plans:
- In-Place Archiving: This feature, which ensures long-term email storage, is available only in Business Premium.
- eDiscovery: A key tool for legal and compliance teams, eDiscovery is only included in higher-tier plans.
5. Microsoft 365 Phone System
The Microsoft 365 Business plan does not include the Phone System feature, which is available in higher-tier plans.
- Cloud Calling: Only Business Premium and Enterprise plans offer cloud-based telephony, which integrates phone calls into your Microsoft 365 suite.
Conclusion
Microsoft 365 Business is a solid choice for many businesses but does have limitations when compared to higher plans, especially in areas like security, device management, and compliance. Upgrading to Business Premium or Enterprise can unlock more advanced features.
Ready to explore Microsoft 365 Business or upgrade to a higher plan?
Medha Cloud can guide you through the best options for your business.
