O365

Office 365 E5: Enterprise Productivity and Security

What is Office 365 E5?

  • Office 365 E5: An advanced enterprise cloud solution.
  • Includes:
    • Full suite of Office applications.
    • Enhanced security features (like Microsoft Defender).
    • Comprehensive compliance tools.
    • Advanced analytics (including Power BI Pro).
    • Integrated voice capabilities.
  • Ideal for: Large businesses seeking extensive security, analytics, and communication tools.

What is Office 365 E5?

What is Office 365 E5

Office 365 E5 is recognized as the most advanced plan within the Office 365 enterprise offerings.

This high-level plan is tailored to meet the complex demands of modern businesses by delivering:

  • A Full Suite of Productivity Apps includes staples like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, as well as innovative tools for collaboration and productivity.
  • Voice and Analytics Capabilities: This integrates sophisticated voice services and analytics tools like Power BI Pro to address dynamic business communication and data analysis needs.
  • Unmatched Security and Compliance Services: Office 365 E5 steps up with Microsoft Defender for Office 365 and Azure Information Protection, providing a robust defense against a myriad of cyber threats and ensuring compliance with data regulations.

In essence, Office 365 E5 is a potent solution for enterprises seeking to increase productivity, safeguard their digital environment, and make informed decisions through advanced analytics.

Office 365 E5 vs Other Office 365 Plans

Office 365 E5 vs Other Office 365 Plans

Choosing the right Office 365 plan is crucial for businesses to align their software investments with their operational needs. Microsoft offers a tiered structure with E1, E3, and E5 plans, each catering to different levels of functionality, security, and collaboration tools.

Here’s a detailed comparison to help businesses understand the differences and select the plan that fits their requirements.


Office 365 E1: The Foundation

Core Features

  • Basic Cloud Services: This service provides essential tools like Exchange Online for email, OneDrive for file storage, and SharePoint for basic collaboration.
  • Web-Only Applications: Includes web-based Word, Excel, and PowerPoint versions but does not offer desktop applications.

Target Audience

  • Ideal for organizations that require fundamental cloud services for email, file sharing, and basic collaboration without needing desktop apps or advanced analytics.

Example Use Case

A small nonprofit organization uses Office 365 E1 to manage email communications and store shared files in OneDrive, focusing on cost-efficiency while accessing essential tools.


Office 365 E3: Enhanced Productivity and Security

Enhanced Capabilities

  • Full Suite of Applications: Includes desktop versions of Office apps (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook) alongside the web apps provided in E1.
  • Advanced Security Features: This feature offers tools like data loss prevention (DLP) and Microsoft Purview capabilities for greater control over sensitive data.
  • Additional Storage: Provides more OneDrive storage than E1, enabling better scalability for growing businesses.

Ideal For

  • Medium-sized businesses need a balance between productivity tools and basic security features without requiring the advanced capabilities of E5.

Example Use Case

A marketing agency leverages Office 365 E3 for its enhanced productivity tools and data management features, ensuring team collaboration while maintaining data security.


Office 365 E5: The Premier Enterprise Solution

Distinctive Features

  • Advanced Security and Threat Protection: Includes Microsoft Defender for Office 365, which provides comprehensive email security to guard against phishing, malware, and ransomware.
  • Integrated Communication Tools: Offers a robust phone system, audio conferencing, and Microsoft Teams Calling, enabling seamless enterprise communication.
  • Power BI Pro: Provides access to advanced analytics and visualization tools, empowering organizations to derive actionable insights from their data.
  • Compliance Tools: Advanced compliance management supports regulatory requirements, including eDiscovery and advanced auditing capabilities.

Best Fit For

  • Large enterprises with extensive security, compliance, communication, and analytics needs.
  • Organizations operating in regulated industries such as finance, healthcare, and government, where top-tier compliance and threat protection are critical.

Example Use Case

A multinational financial institution adopts Office 365 E5 to safeguard sensitive client data with advanced security measures while using Power BI Pro for in-depth financial analysis across global offices.

Comparison Table: Office 365 Plans

FeatureOffice 365 E1Office 365 E3Office 365 E5
Core ApplicationsWeb apps onlyDesktop + web appsDesktop + web apps
Email & CollaborationBasic email, OneDriveEnhanced email, OneDriveAdvanced email with security
Security FeaturesBasicDLP, basic complianceAdvanced threat protection
Analytics ToolsNoneNonePower BI Pro
Communication ToolsBasic Teams functionalityBasic Teams functionalityTeams Calling, Phone System
Compliance FeaturesBasicIntermediateAdvanced auditing, eDiscovery
StorageStandard OneDrive storageExpanded storage capacityExpanded storage capacity
Ideal ForBasic cloud needsProductivity + securityAdvanced enterprise needs

Key Considerations When Choosing a Plan

  1. Budget
    • E1 is cost-effective for organizations with basic requirements.
    • E3 offers a mid-tier solution that balances features and costs.
    • E5 is premium, catering to enterprises with advanced needs.
  2. Security Needs
    • E5 is essential for organizations prioritizing advanced threat protection.
    • E3 provides basic security features that are adequate for smaller businesses.
  3. Analytics
    • E5 includes Power BI Pro, a critical tool for businesses needing robust analytics.
  4. Communication
    • Teams Calling and advanced conferencing in E5 make it ideal for enterprises needing unified communication tools.
  5. Compliance
    • Regulated industries benefit significantly from the advanced compliance tools offered in E5.

Advanced Security and Compliance in Office 365 E5

Advanced Security and Compliance in Office 365 E5

Office 365 E5 is renowned for its robust security and compliance features, setting a high standard in enterprise-level data protection.

  • Key Security Features:
    • Microsoft Defender for Office 365: Offers advanced threat protection against cyber risks such as phishing and zero-day malware.
    • Azure Information Protection: Enables data classification and protection, ensuring sensitive information is securely managed across all devices.
  • Advanced-Data Governance:
    • E5’s Unique Approach: Emphasizes proactive data governance strategies, helping businesses maintain compliance and manage data effectively.
    • Compared to Lower Tiers: While E1 and E3 provide fundamental security measures, E5’s advanced data governance and comprehensive security approach are unrivaled, making it a more suitable choice for businesses with stringent security and compliance requirements.

In summary, Office 365 E5’s advanced security and compliance features make it a standout choice for businesses prioritizing top-level data protection and governance. These features surpass those offered in the E1 and E3 plans.

Analytics and Business Intelligence Tools

Office 365 E5 elevates business intelligence and analytics capabilities, empowering organizations with powerful tools to analyze and visualize data.

  • Power BI Pro: The Data Visualization Powerhouse
    • Functionality: Enables users to create interactive reports and dashboards, offering deep insights into business data.
    • Benefits: Facilitates data-driven decision-making by allowing easy access to complex analytics.
  • MyAnalytics: Personal Productivity Insights
    • Purpose: Provides personalized insights into work patterns, helping employees optimize productivity.
    • Key Features: Tracks time spent in meetings, on emails, and focus work, offering recommendations for better work-life balance.

Office 365 E5’s analytics tools stand out for their ability to provide comprehensive business insights and enhance individual productivity through personal analytics.

Telephony and Conferencing Features

Office 365 E5’s telephony and conferencing features are designed to streamline communication and collaboration in businesses of all sizes.

  • Advanced Phone System
    • Capabilities: Integrates seamlessly with Microsoft Teams, providing a robust, cloud-based phone system.
    • Advantages: Enables making and receiving calls directly from Teams, providing flexibility and ease of use.
  • Audio Conferencing and PTSN Capabilities
    • Audio Conferencing: Allows meeting participants to join via phone, enhancing accessibility for those without internet access.
    • PTSN Conferencing: Public Switched Telephone Network (PTSN) conferencing extends the reach of team meetings, allowing dial-in from virtually anywhere.

The telephony and conferencing features in Office 365 E5 facilitate effective communication and ensure that businesses can maintain connectivity regardless of location or device, making it an essential tool for modern, dynamic work environments.

Top 5 Best Practices for Utilizing Office 365 E5

Top 5 Best Practices for Utilizing Office 365 E5

Office 365 E5 is Microsoft’s most comprehensive enterprise solution, offering advanced productivity, collaboration, security, and analytics tools. To maximize the value of this powerful suite, organizations should adopt best practices tailored to its unique features.

Here are the top five recommendations for effectively leveraging Office 365 E5.


1. Optimize Security Features

Office 365 E5 has a robust suite of security tools designed to protect sensitive data and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

Best Practices

  • Enable Microsoft Defender for Office 365. This feature detects and mitigates threats such as phishing, malware, and ransomware.
  • Implement Conditional Access: Set up policies that restrict access based on user identity, location, and device security status.
  • Leverage Data Loss Prevention (DLP): Create policies to prevent unauthorized sharing of sensitive data within and outside the organization.
  • Use Azure Information Protection (AIP): Classify documents and emails for added security.

Example

A financial services company uses Conditional Access to restrict access to sensitive customer data, ensuring only authenticated and authorized users can view it.


2. Leverage Advanced Collaboration Tools

Office 365 E5 enhances teamwork with tools that streamline communication and collaboration across distributed teams.

Best Practices

  • Maximize Microsoft Teams: Use Teams for messaging, video conferencing, and file sharing in a centralized workspace.
  • Integrate SharePoint: Store and organize project files in SharePoint to ensure easy access and version control.
  • Enable Co-Authoring: Allow multiple users to edit documents simultaneously in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
  • Utilize Microsoft Viva: Boost employee engagement with Viva Insights, Topics, and Learning, which integrate directly into Teams.

Example

An engineering firm uses Microsoft Teams to coordinate project updates, SharePoint to manage design files, and co-authoring to allow real-time collaboration on technical reports.


3. Harness Advanced Analytics with Power BI

Power BI in Office 365 E5 provides actionable insights to drive data-informed decisions across the organization.

Best Practices

  • Connect to Diverse Data Sources: To create comprehensive dashboards, Integrate Power BI with Excel, SharePoint, and external databases.
  • Automate Reports: Schedule recurring reports to share with stakeholders, ensuring they can always access the latest data.
  • Implement Data Governance: Set permissions and policies to protect sensitive data within Power BI reports.
  • Leverage AI Insights: Use AI-driven analytics in Power BI to uncover trends, anomalies, and predictive insights.

Example

A retail chain uses Power BI to monitor sales performance across regions, identify underperforming stores, and adjust marketing strategies accordingly.


4. Enhance Productivity with Automation and Integration

Automation tools in Office 365 E5, such as Power Automate, streamline repetitive tasks and improve efficiency.

Best Practices

  • Create Automated Workflows: Use Power Automate to automate approvals, notifications, and routine data entry tasks.
  • Integrate Office 365 Apps: Connect Outlook, Teams, and SharePoint to simplify workflows and centralize communications.
  • Adopt AI-Driven Tools: Use AI features in Excel for predictive analytics and Microsoft Viva for personalized recommendations.
  • Use Bookings for Scheduling: Simplify appointment management with Microsoft Bookings, ideal for customer-facing teams.

Example

A legal firm automates document approval workflows using Power Automate, saving hours of manual effort and reducing errors.


5. Stay Updated and Ensure Adoption

Office 365 E5 frequently introduces new features and updates. Staying current and encouraging adoption across teams is vital for maximizing its potential.

Best Practices

  • Subscribe to Microsoft 365 Admin Updates: Stay informed about new features and changes via the admin center.
  • Provide Ongoing Training: Regular training sessions to ensure employees are comfortable with new tools and features.
  • Monitor Usage Metrics: Use the Microsoft 365 Admin Center to track app adoption and identify areas that require additional training.
  • Encourage Early Adoption: Identify tech-savvy employees to pilot new features and act as internal champions.

Example

An HR team monitors Microsoft Teams usage and organizes training sessions to ensure that all employees effectively use its collaboration features.

FAQs

What does Office 365 E5 include?

  • It includes productivity apps, advanced security, compliance tools, voice capabilities, and analytics.

What is the difference between Office 365 E5 and E3?

  • E5 offers more advanced security, analytics, and telephony features than E3.

What is the difference between Office 365 E1 and E5?

  • E5 includes all E1 features, advanced security, analytics, and telephony capabilities.

Is Office 365 E5 worth it?

  • It depends on your business needs, especially if you require advanced security and analytics.

What is the difference between E3 and E5?

  • E5 includes more advanced security, analytics, and communication tools than E3.

What are the benefits of the E5 license?

  • Enhanced security, advanced analytics, comprehensive communication tools, and compliance management.

Why use M365 E5?

  • For integrated security, compliance, and productivity solutions at an enterprise level.

Does Microsoft 365 E5 include a Windows license?

  • Yes, it includes a Windows license.

Does E5 include Intune?

  • Yes, Intune is included in E5.

How much is an E5 license?

  • Pricing varies; check Microsoft’s official site for the latest rates.

Why upgrade from E3 to E5?

  • For enhanced security, advanced analytics, and improved communication tools.

Is Office 365 being phased out?

  • No, it’s rebranded as Microsoft 365, but specific plans still exist.

Can you upgrade from E3 to E5?

  • Yes, upgrades from E3 to E5 are possible.

Is Teams premium included in E5?

  • Teams with advanced features is included in E5.

Does E5 include Defender for Endpoint?

  • Yes, it includes Defender for Endpoint.

How much storage is allowed in OneDrive 365 E5?

  • 1 TB per user is standard, with the potential for more based on conditions.

Is Visio a part of Office 365?

  • Visio is available separately and not included in the standard Office 365 suite.

Is Visio included in Office 365 E3?

  • No, Visio is not included in E3.

Who can use E5?

  • It’s suitable for large organizations and enterprises needing advanced features.

Does the E5 license include DLP?

  • Yes, Data Loss Prevention (DLP) is included in E5.

Do you need an E3 and E5?

  • It depends on specific business needs; E5 includes all E3 features.

How many devices can use a Microsoft E5 license?

  • Each user can install Office apps on up to 5 devices.

Does the E5 license include archiving?

  • Yes, E5 includes archiving capabilities.

What is Microsoft 365 Enterprise E5?

  • A comprehensive enterprise solution offering advanced security, analytics, and communication tools.

Why E3 over Business Premium?

  • E3 offers more enterprise-level features than Business Premium.

What will replace Office 365?

  • Microsoft 365 replaces Office 365 with similar but rebranded offerings.

Is Microsoft Office 2023 coming out?

  • For the latest releases, refer to Microsoft’s official announcements.

Does E5 include Outlook?

  • Yes, Outlook is included in E5.
Author
  • Fredrik Filipsson has 20 years of experience in Oracle license management, including nine years working at Oracle and 11 years as a consultant, assisting major global clients with complex Oracle licensing issues. Before his work in Oracle licensing, he gained valuable expertise in IBM, SAP, and Salesforce licensing through his time at IBM. In addition, Fredrik has played a leading role in AI initiatives and is a successful entrepreneur, co-founding Redress Compliance and several other companies.

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