Levels of data protection, access control, and device management vary significantly between the plans.
Licensing Solutions
Microsoft 365 vs. Office 365 Comparison
Among Microsoft’s enterprise productivity suites, two products are often confused: Office 365 and Microsoft 365. Despite their similar names, these two packages differ significantly in terms of services, security features, and overall scope. On this page, you’ll find the key differences, shared features, and guidance on which plan best fits your organization’s needs.
Key Points to Know Before Making a Decision
We evaluate the differences between Office 365 and Microsoft 365 under these four main categories:
Scope of Packages
The two suites include different applications, services, and
components.
Security Level
The degree of threat detection, data protection, and identity
security varies.
Management Capabilities
The ability to manage users
and devices depends on the
plan.
Licensing Model
Payment methods, update rights, and flexibility levels differ.
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Differences Between Office 365 and Microsoft 365
Review the key distinctions in terms of application scope, security, device management, and licensing.
Microsoft 365
- All Office 365 features + Windows 11 + advanced security and device management
- Advanced security (Microsoft Defender, endpoint management, advanced threat protection)
- Windows 10/11 Enterprise license included
- Comprehensive device management with Microsoft Intune
- Advanced eDiscovery, data loss prevention, and compliance solutions
Security and Management Differences
Office 365
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
- Basic anti-spam and anti-phishing protection
- Basic eDiscovery and audit logs
- Security-focused add-ons available (Defender for Office 365, Azure AD Premium)
Microsoft 365
Includes all Office 365 features plus:
- Windows 10/11 Enterprise license
- Device management with Microsoft Intune
- Endpoint protection with Microsoft Defender for Endpoint
- Advanced identity and access management (Azure AD Premium P1/P2)
- Compliance tools such as Data Loss Prevention (DLP), Advanced eDiscovery, and Insider Risk Management
Shared Features Across Microsoft 365 and Office 365 Plans
Both packages deliver powerful tools for productivity and collaboration.
Operating SystemWindows 10/11 Enterprise
Microsoft 365 goes beyond Office applications and cloud services by also including a Windows 10 or 11 Enterprise license. This ensures:
- Licensed, up-to-date, and secure operating systems across all devices
- Access to enterprise security features such as BitLocker, Windows Hello, and Credential Guard
- A unified package for OS, productivity software, and security solutions
Device ManagementMicrosoft Intune
Included with Microsoft 365, Intune enables centralized remote management of your organization’s computers, tablets, and mobile devices:
- Application deployment and update management
- Centralized enforcement of security policies
- Remote wipe for lost or stolen devices
- Protection of corporate data in BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) scenarios
Advanced SecurityMicrosoft Defender
Microsoft 365 extends Office 365’s basic security with:
- Endpoint protection via Microsoft Defender for Endpoint
- Advanced identity and access management with Azure Active Directory Premium P1/P2
- Enhanced email and collaboration security with Microsoft Defender for Office 365 (Plan 1 or 2)
- Proactive defense features such as risk-based conditional access, Privileged Identity Management (PIM), and automated threat response, providing strong protection against
ransomware and targeted attacks
Compliance and Regulation Microsoft Purview
For organizations needing to meet strict regulatory requirements, Microsoft 365 provides advanced compliance tools:
- Advanced eDiscovery: Detailed data analysis for legal investigations
- Data Loss Prevention (DLP): Prevents sensitive data from being exposed
- Information Protection: Classification and encryption for documents and emails
- Insider Risk Management: Monitoring and mitigation of insider threats
- Communication Compliance: Ensures corporate communications meet regulatory standards
Our Advanced Specializations and Solution Designations
Leverage our Microsoft-recognized solution designations and advanced specializations to benefit from our proven expertise and take your organization’s digital transformation to the next level.
Adoption and Change Management
Teamwork Deployment
Low Code Application Development
AI & Machine Learning on Microsoft Azure
Information Protection & Governance
Threat Protection
Infra and Database Migration to Microsoft Azure
Custom Solutions for Microsoft Teams
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Modern Collaboration with Microsoft 365
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Why Organizations Worldwide Trust PEAKUP?
Expertise
Deep technical knowledge in Microsoft licensing
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Clear direction for the right license
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between Office 365 and Microsoft 365?
Microsoft 365 includes the applications offered by Office 365, plus an operating system (Windows) and advanced security solutions.
Is Microsoft 365 more expensive?
Yes, but it provides additional value with enhanced security, device management, and a Windows license.
Does Office 365 only include applications?
Yes, Office 365 focuses on applications and cloud services; it does not include an operating system or device management.
Which operating system does Microsoft 365 include?
Microsoft 365 Enterprise plans come with a Windows 10 or 11 Enterprise license.
Will Office 365 eventually become Microsoft 365?
No, Office 365 will remain a separate product. However, Microsoft positions Microsoft 365 as its primary enterprise solution.
What does Microsoft 365 offer in terms of security?
It delivers threat prevention, identity management, and data protection through solutions like Defender, Intune, and Azure AD.
Can I manage devices with Office 365?
No, device management requires Microsoft Intune, which is only included with Microsoft 365 plans.
Can I switch between the two license types?
Yes, you can switch as your user base and organizational needs change.
Do all employees need Microsoft 365?
No, different licenses can be assigned based on roles. A hybrid licensing model can be created to meet specific needs.
How do I choose the right plan for my business?
If your needs are mainly focused on applications, Office 365 may be sufficient. But if security, device management, and scalability are priorities, Microsoft 365 is more suitable. For a detailed assessment, you can consult PEAKUP experts to determine the most appropriate license for your organization.
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