Is the Business Premium + E5 Security Add-On a Better Deal Than M365 E3 + EMS-E5 + MDE P2?
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ChillPanda77
Hey there, I'm hoping to get some insights from anyone versed in Microsoft licensing. Right now, I'm using Microsoft M365 E3 along with EMS-E5 and MDE P2. Recently, I came across the new E5 Security add-on for Business Premium, and it appears to be a more cost-effective option. I'm curious about its drawbacks, though. For instance, I've heard that it lacks Windows Server CALs. Can anyone share their thoughts on what other limitations might exist?
Answers
If you have less than 300 users, this could really work for you. Have you checked if you can actually use this via CSP for the 50 users you mentioned? Mixing EA and CSP in the same tenant is tricky, so just be sure to confirm that's possible.
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Business Premium does include CALs at no extra cost, which is a plus. However, it doesn't have the same level of policy control like GPO, and you won't get the full 'Plan 2' features for Exchange Online or SharePoint Online that you would with E3. There are plenty of differences between the plans, so I’d recommend digging into a comparison chart to see what suits you best.
HelpMeOut22: Those differences are key! I’m planning on a cloud-native setup for the users, so I’m thinking CALs won’t be an issue. Thanks for clarifying that!
MDEfan99: I found a great article that breaks down E5 Sec versus EMS E5. It might help you make a decision.
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Microsoft has rolled out a new Security and Compliance SKU that's designed to work nicely with M365 Business Premium. It has similar features to E5 Security but is cheaper. Just keep in mind, you still have the issue of tenant mixing to think about.
ChillPanda77: That sounds promising! I'll definitely check it out.
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ChillPanda77: Yeah, we aren't under 300 seats, and I found out more about the EA making it tricky to mix with CSP.