If your business relies on Microsoft 365, upgrading to Microsoft 365 Business Premium can enhance security, productivity, and IT management. Many companies stick with Microsoft 365 Business Standard, unaware that they’re missing out on advanced cybersecurity, remote device management, and compliance tools—features included in Business Premium.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Business Premium, including:
- What it offers compared to Business Standard
- How it strengthens security and protects against cyber threats
- Why it’s a smart investment for SMBs
- Answers to common questions from business owners
If you're wondering whether the upgrade is worth it, keep reading.
What Is Microsoft 365 Business Premium?
Microsoft 365 Business Premium is a productivity and security suite designed for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). It includes everything in Business Standard—Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams, OneDrive—plus enterprise-level security, device management, and identity protection.
Business Standard vs. Business Premium
| Feature | Microsoft 365 Business Standard | Microsoft 365 Business Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Office Apps (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Email & Cloud Storage (1TB OneDrive) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Microsoft Defender for Office 365 | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) | ✅ Basic | ✅ Advanced (Conditional Access) |
| Microsoft Intune (Device Management) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Data Loss Prevention (DLP) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Remote Device Wipe | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Compliance & eDiscovery | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
6 Reasons to Upgrade to Microsoft 365 Business Premium
Stronger Security Against Cyber Threats
Cyberattacks on SMBs are increasing, with phishing and ransomware being major threats. Microsoft 365 Business Premium includes Microsoft Defender for Office 365, which provides:
- Real-time threat detection to block phishing and malware
- Safe Links and Safe Attachments to prevent employees from clicking malicious links
- Advanced email filtering to stop business email compromise attacks
Without these built-in protections, your business is at greater risk of cyber threats that could lead to data breaches, downtime, and financial losses.
Related read: What Is Phishing-Resistant MFA? A Must-Know Guide for SMBs
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and Identity Protection
Weak passwords are one of the biggest security risks for businesses. Business Premium includes Azure Active Directory Premium P1, enabling:
- Conditional Access to restrict logins based on location, device, or behaviour
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for an extra layer of security
- Self-Service Password Reset to reduce IT support tickets
These features help businesses implement a Zero Trust security model, ensuring only authorized users can access sensitive data.
Related read: Why Your Business Needs a Password Manager: The Ultimate Guide
Remote Device Management with Microsoft Intune
With employees working remotely or using personal devices for work, securing company data is more challenging. Microsoft Intune allows you to:
- Remotely wipe lost or stolen devices
- Enforce security policies, such as requiring encryption
- Manage both corporate and personal devices without compromising employee privacy
This is essential for businesses operating in Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) environments.
Related read: BYOD Policies: Security Risks, Challenges & Solutions for Businesses
Secure File Sharing and Data Loss Prevention (DLP)
Accidentally sharing sensitive data with the wrong people is a major business risk. Business Premium includes Data Loss Prevention (DLP) and email encryption, which help:
- Prevent unauthorized data sharing via email or cloud storage
- Control access to sensitive files based on user roles
- Encrypt emails containing confidential information automatically
This is critical for businesses handling financial, healthcare, or legal data that must comply with data protection regulations.
Related read: How to Reduce SharePoint Online Storage: A Complete Guide for Businesses
Compliance and Industry Regulations
If your business operates in a regulated industry such as healthcare, finance, or legal, compliance is essential. Business Premium helps meet industry standards with:
- Data retention policies to ensure compliance
- Audit logs and reporting to track user activity
- eDiscovery tools to search emails and documents for legal cases
Related read: Do You Really Need Cyber Insurance? Here’s What You Must Know
Cost Savings Compared to Buying Security Tools Separately
Many businesses pay for separate security and compliance tools, unaware that Business Premium already includes:
- Endpoint protection, reducing the need for third-party antivirus software
- MFA and identity protection, eliminating the need for services like Duo Security or Okta
- Mobile Device Management (MDM), saving costs on standalone MDM solutions
By consolidating security and compliance tools into one Microsoft subscription, businesses can cut costs while strengthening security.
Common Questions About Microsoft 365 Business Premium
Is Microsoft 365 Business Premium Worth It?
Yes. If your business values security, compliance, and IT efficiency, the upgrade is highly recommended.
Can I Upgrade from Business Standard to Business Premium?
Yes. The transition is seamless, with no disruption to your existing data or settings.
How Does Business Premium Compare to Enterprise Licenses?
Enterprise plans (E3, E5) offer additional security and compliance tools, but Business Premium provides enterprise-level protection at a lower cost, making it ideal for SMBs.
Relate read: Global Admin Access in Microsoft 365: Should You Have It & How to Secure It
Does Business Premium Include Microsoft Teams?
Yes, Microsoft Teams is included in both Business Standard and Business Premium. However, Microsoft Teams Premium is a separate add-on with AI-powered features and advanced meeting controls.
What Happens If an Employee Loses a Device?
With Microsoft Intune, you can remotely wipe or lock the lost device, preventing unauthorized access to company data.
Do I Still Need an Antivirus If I Have Business Premium?
No, Microsoft Defender for Office 365 provides built-in antivirus, anti-malware, and phishing protection, eliminating the need for third-party security software.
Is Business Premium Suitable for Small Businesses?
Yes, Business Premium is designed for SMBs that need strong security, device management, and compliance tools without the high cost of enterprise plans.
Can I Use Business Premium on Personal Devices?
Yes. Employees can use personal devices for work, and Microsoft Intune ensures corporate data stays secure while maintaining employee privacy.
Upgrade to Microsoft 365 Business Premium Today
Upgrading to Business Premium is a proactive step toward a more secure and efficient business. If you need help with licensing, migration, or security setup, our MSP team is here to assist you.
Microsoft 365 Business Premium is more than just a productivity suite—it’s a powerful security and compliance solution that helps businesses stay protected. Whether you’re looking to enhance security, improve IT management, or meet industry regulations, upgrading is a smart choice.
Contact us today to get started.
Related read: How to Choose the Right IT Service Provider for Your Business
