Hidden Gems in Microsoft 365 Business Premium (And Why You’re Probably Not Using Them)
Most small businesses buy Microsoft 365 because they need email, Word, and maybe Excel. And that’s fine — but if you’re using the Business Premium plan (about $22/user/month), you’re getting way more than just the basics.
In fact, most companies are missing out on powerful tools they’re already paying for — tools that can save money, boost security, and make managing your business easier.
Here’s a breakdown of what you already have, how it helps, and how it compares to what you might be paying for separately.
☁️ SharePoint & OneDrive
Your cloud file storage — simple, secure, and no server needed
Many businesses still store files on a server in the back room or pay for Dropbox or Google Drive. But Microsoft 365 gives you something better — built right in:
- OneDrive: Every user gets 1 TB of secure cloud storage. Files are always backed up and available on any device.
- SharePoint: This is your shared company drive. Organize files by team (HR, Finance, Sales), control access, and collaborate in real time.
How it compares to a traditional server:
| File Server | Microsoft 365 | |
|---|---|---|
| Hardware costs | $2,000–$5,000+ | ❌ None |
| Remote access | VPN required | ✅ Any device |
| Backups | You manage them | ✅ Built-in |
| File sharing | Risky or complicated | ✅ Simple and secure |
| Ongoing maintenance | High | ✅ Microsoft manages it |
🛡️ Microsoft Defender for Business
Security that protects your email, devices, and users — automatically
Cyber threats are a reality for small businesses today — from phishing emails to ransomware. Defender for Business gives you enterprise-grade protection, already included in your plan.
✅ What it covers:
1. Endpoint Protection (your computers & devices)
- Blocks viruses, ransomware, and malicious software
- Monitors activity and flags suspicious behavior
- Automatically isolates infected devices
- Sends you alerts (or your IT partner) when something’s wrong
2. Email Protection
- Scans incoming emails for phishing links, dangerous attachments, and impersonation attempts
- Blocks unsafe content before it reaches your inbox
- Integrates with Outlook — no add-ons required
💡 If you’re still paying for antivirus or third-party email filters, Defender likely does more — and it’s already included.
🔐 Azure AD Premium P1 (Identity Protection)
Keep your accounts and logins safe from hackers
Most breaches start with a stolen password. Business Premium includes Azure Active Directory Premium P1, which gives you powerful tools to protect your users.
What it does:
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) — stop 99% of account hacks
- Conditional Access — block sign-ins from outside the U.S. or after hours
- Self-service password reset — no more help desk calls
- Smart login protection — alerts for risky sign-ins or unfamiliar devices
💡 This is the same tech Microsoft uses to protect its own employees.
✅ Microsoft Purview (Compliance & Data Protection)
Protect sensitive data like HIPAA, financial info, or customer records
If you work in healthcare, finance, legal, or handle personal customer info, Microsoft 365 helps you stay compliant — and avoid costly mistakes.
What’s included:
- Office Message Encryption — encrypt emails so only the right person can open them
- Data Loss Prevention (DLP) — automatically detect and block sensitive data (like Social Security numbers or bank details) from being emailed out
- Compliance templates — for HIPAA, GDPR, and more
- Audit logs and reporting — know who accessed what, and when
💡 You don’t need a lawyer or IT expert to use it — just choose the templates that apply to your business.
💻 Microsoft Intune (Device & App Management)
Easily manage your employees’ laptops, phones, and access
Whether your team works in the office, at home, or on the road — Intune gives you control over how they access company info.
What you can do:
- Automatically set up new laptops with the right apps and settings
- Remotely wipe lost or stolen devices
- Keep business data off personal devices (without spying on them)
- Make sure all devices meet your security standards (encryption, passcodes, etc.)
💡 Think of it as your virtual IT department — no extra software or services needed.
💸 What You’re Probably Paying for Separately
Here’s what most businesses pay each month using third-party tools:
| Tool | Typical Cost (per user) |
|---|---|
| Email hosting | $5–$10 |
| Office apps | $8–$12 |
| Cloud storage (Dropbox, Google Drive) | $5–$10 |
| Antivirus / endpoint security | $4–$6 |
| Device management | $5–$10 |
| Identity protection (MFA, access control) | $6 |
| Compliance tools | $3–$5 |
That’s $35–$55/month per user — and you’re likely already covered for $22 with Business Premium.
✅ Final Thoughts
If you’re only using Microsoft 365 for email and Excel — you’re leaving a lot of value on the table.
Microsoft 365 Business Premium gives you a file server replacement, advanced security, compliance tools, identity protection, and device management — all included. No extra vendors. No extra costs. Just smarter IT that’s already in your corner.
💬 Need help setting this up or figuring out what you can stop paying for? We help small businesses make the most of Microsoft 365 every day — no jargon, no pressure. Just clear advice and real results.