Discover the Difference between Microsoft 365 Premium and Standard

Ever wonder what the difference is between Microsoft 365 Premium and Standard? Like most business leaders, choosing the right software package for your organization can seem daunting. The key difference between Microsoft 365 Premium and Standard is mainly in their range of features, security enhancements and pricing. Microsoft 365 Premium offers more advanced protection, premium features such as Power Apps, Microsoft Bookings, Exchange Online Protection and more robust security than the Standard plan.

In this article, we take a closer look at the differences between Microsoft 365 Premium and Standard. You will clearly understand their characteristics, benefits and how they can meet the unique needs of your business. With the insights and experiences gained from helping organizations in the Netherlands successfully leverage these Microsoft 365 options, ALTA-ICT stands as a testament to the effectiveness and versatility of these platforms. As we discuss various considerations such as security, mobility and data monitoring, you will gain insights influenced by ALTA-ICT’s proven track record, helping you make a more informed decision.

A Detailed Explanation of Microsoft 365 Premium and Standard Microsoft 365, formerly known as Office 365, is a suite of productivity apps offered by Microsoft as a cloud-based service. The package includes typical desktop Office applications such as Microsoft Word and business apps such as Microsoft Teams and Microsoft Forms.

Microsoft 365 Standard

Also known as Microsoft 365 Business Standard, this plan offers a mix of Office apps and cloud services to boost productivity in a business environment. Key features of this plan include enterprise-class email through Exchange, file storage and sharing through OneDrive, and online meetings and instant messaging through Microsoft Teams.

Microsoft 365 Standard offers Microsoft’s full suite of desktop office applications, web versions and 1 TB of cloud storage per user. A favorite for mid-sized companies, it offers collaboration tools without a high price tag.

However, security offerings are somewhat limited. While it offers some basic security features, the Premium plan lacks the advanced protection mechanisms and compliance offerings.

Microsoft 365 Premium

Also known as Microsoft 365 Business Premium, offers the same features as the Standard plan, but adds robust security and device management features. It is an all-in-one solution that combines the best Office apps, advanced security and device management capabilities.

The Premium plan introduces premium security features, such as Microsoft Defender for threat protection and Exchange Online Protection for e-mail protection. Furthermore, it provides advanced data control capabilities, including the ability to remotely wipe data from lost or stolen devices, manage the sharing of sensitive data and enforce compliance policies.

Microsoft 365 Premium is ideal for businesses with more mobile devices or more stringent security requirements. It enables IT operations to protect corporate data across multiple devices, including personal devices used in a business context. With its enterprise mobility features, companies can securely manage their business data while ensuring productivity.

Here’s everything you need to know about choosing the best Microsoft 365 plan for your needs.