What are the limitations of Microsoft 365 Business Standard compared to other plans?

Microsoft 365 Business Standard limitations are important to consider when choosing the right plan for your business. While it offers a solid set of tools for small and medium-sized businesses, there are key differences when compared to higher-tier plans like Business Premium or Enterprise offerings.

1. Microsoft 365 Business Standard Limitations: User Cap

One of the biggest limitations of Microsoft 365 Business Standard is the user cap. It is limited to 300 users, which may be restrictive for larger organizations that expect rapid growth.

• Business Standard: Limited to 300 users.
• Higher Plans: No user cap in Business Premium or Enterprise plans.

2. Microsoft 365 Business Standard Limitations: Security Features

While Business Standard offers solid security, it lacks some of the advanced tools available in higher-tier plans, especially around threat detection and response.

• Business Standard: Basic security features like multi-factor authentication and Exchange Online Protection.
• Higher Plans: Advanced security with Microsoft Defender, Intune, and advanced threat protection.

3. Microsoft 365 Business Standard Limitations: Device Management

Another limitation of Microsoft 365 Business Standard is its lack of advanced device management capabilities. Business Premium offers better tools for mobile device management and data security.

• Business Standard: Does not include mobile device management (MDM) or advanced endpoint management.
• Business Premium: Includes full Microsoft Intune integration for managing devices and security.

4. Microsoft 365 Business Standard Limitations: Advanced Compliance

Business Standard includes basic compliance tools, but businesses needing advanced compliance solutions may find it lacking compared to Enterprise or Business Premium plans.

• Business Standard: Basic compliance tools, such as data loss prevention (DLP).
• Higher Plans: Advanced compliance and legal hold features, including Microsoft Compliance Manager and eDiscovery.

5. Microsoft 365 Business Standard Limitations: Access to Premium Apps

Business Standard does not provide access to some premium Office applications and services offered in higher plans, such as Microsoft Bookings and Microsoft Stream.

• Business Standard: Includes web-based Office apps (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Higher Plans: Access to premium apps like Microsoft Stream, Bookings, and more comprehensive reporting tools.

6. Microsoft 365 Business Standard Limitations: Cloud Storage

While Business Standard provides 1TB of OneDrive storage per user, it lacks the additional storage features available in higher-tier plans, which can be crucial for data-heavy businesses.

• Business Standard: 1TB of OneDrive storage per user.
• Higher Plans: Unlimited storage or additional pooled storage options for large teams.

Conclusion

In this Microsoft 365 Business Standard limitations comparison, it’s clear that while Business Standard is ideal for small to medium-sized businesses, it lacks several advanced features found in higher plans. Businesses with more complex needs—such as enhanced security, device management, and compliance—may benefit from upgrading to Business Premium or an Enterprise plan.

Considering an upgrade for advanced features?
Medha Cloud can help you assess the best Microsoft 365 plan for your needs.