Think Microsoft 365 is already secure? It is – but E5 Security takes things to the next level. Here’s how this powerful add-on helps business users stay protected against today’s evolving cyber threats.
If you’re a Microsoft 365 Business user, you might already feel like you’re in safe hands. And to a large extent, you are. However, as cyber threats evolve and become more sophisticated, it’s worth asking whether your current setup is providing the best protection available, or whether you could be doing even more.
That’s where Microsoft 365 E5 Security comes in.
Designed specifically for business users who want to minimise their risk, this powerful add-on offers advanced protection to help keep your organisation safe, secure, and one step ahead of cybercrime.
What is E5 Security?
E5 Security is a Microsoft add-on that enhances your existing Microsoft 365 Business Premium subscription with five powerful enterprise-grade security tools. The tools included in E5 Security are:
- Microsoft Entra ID Plan 2
- Microsoft Defender for Identity
- Microsoft Defender for Endpoint Plan 2
- Microsoft Defender for Office 365 Plan 2
- Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps
Together, these tools provide intelligent, layered protection across users, devices, data and apps.
Isn’t Microsoft 365 already secure?
Yes it is. Microsoft 365 comes with incredible built-in security features that are fantastic for individual users and consumers. But for businesses, the stakes are higher. Larger volumes of sensitive data, stricter compliance requirements, and a bigger target on your back mean you may need a little extra protection. And that’s exactly what the newly launched E5 Security add-on is here to provide.
E5 Security offers five additional layers of defence, specifically designed to help business users stay resilient against the most advanced threats. It’s a smart upgrade for any organisation that handles sensitive data and is actively looking to reduce risk, while building a more secure digital environment.
What new features does E5 Security bring?
With E5 Security, you get access to a suite of powerful capabilities not available in standard plans.
Highlights include:
- Microsoft Entra ID Protection: Risk-based conditional access to block identity attacks in real time
- Entra ID Governance: Automates access permissions and improves identity management workflows
- Extended Detection and Response (XDR): Detailed incident visibility and lifecycle tracking
- Identity Threat Detection and Response (ITDR): Analyses posture, detects threats, and takes action
- Managed Detection and Response (MDR): Endpoint security, IoT protection, and advanced hunting
- Cyber-attack simulation training: Keeps your team sharp and knowledgeable about phishing
- Automated breach response tools: Speed up detection, investigation, and remediation
- SaaS security tools: Help IT teams manage cloud IT and ensure only approved apps are in use
Overall, it’s a comprehensive upgrade that helps businesses build a more mature security posture.
Who can use E5 Security?
E5 Security is available as an add-on for Microsoft 365 Business Premium. If you’re not on Business Premium yet, or you’re unsure whether your current setup supports E5, Reliable is here to help.
We work with businesses every day to help them unlock the full value of Microsoft 365, whether that’s upgrading plans, rolling out new features, or adding advanced security. So if you need a hand navigating your options or want to learn more about what E5 Security can do for you, let’s chat.

