Microsoft has recently introduced a series of new security SKUs specifically designed to enhance the security of frontline workers. This strategic move, outlined in the product terms of January 1, 2024, brings new offerings under the Defender and Entra families (formerly Azure Active Directory). Let’s analyze the details of these additions and objectively explore the potential cost implications.
The new additions:
Microsoft has expanded its Defender and Entra families with various new SKUs, designed to meet the unique security needs of frontline workers. Some of the newly introduced SKUs include:
- Microsoft Defender for Identity F1 (User SL)
- Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps F1 (User SL)
- Defender for Endpoint F1 (User SL)
- Defender for Endpoint F2 (User SL)
- Microsoft Defender for Office 365 F1 (User SL)
- Microsoft Defender for Office 365 F2 (User SL)
- Microsoft Entra ID F2 (User SL)
This move appears to follow a strategy similar to that of April 2020 when Microsoft introduced more affordable SKUs for Microsoft 365 E3 users to access features for regulation and legal compliance at E5 level. However, a significant difference with the new security-focused Frontline SKUs announced in January 2024 is that they reportedly do not require users to have M365 F1/F3.
Cost-effective security solutions:
According to the January 2024 price list, Microsoft claims that the frontline security SKUs are priced at approximately two-thirds of the cost of the P1/P2 SKUs. This pricing strategy aligns with Microsoft’s trend, observed in June 2022 when they introduced more affordable F5 compliance SKUs. According to Microsoft, this claim indicates an active effort to make security measures more accessible to organizations, particularly those with frontline workers.
Notable changes in product terms:
In addition to the introduction of purportedly cost-effective security SKUs, Microsoft claims to have made other notable changes. One such change is the removal of all references to Azure Information Protection (AIP) Premium Plan 1 from its documentation. This corresponds to the decision to discontinue AIP Premium Plan 2 in 2020, with its functionality supposedly incorporated into various Purview sub-suites.
Contact BeSharp Experts for independent advice:
For independent and customized license-related advice on these new security SKUs and other Microsoft solutions, feel free to contact us. As independent advisors in the field of Microsoft licenses, we can assist you in gaining clear insights and personalized advice. Whether you have questions about the new Microsoft Defender SKUs or other Microsoft products, BeSharp Experts is ready to help. Our dedicated team of experts offers unbiased and tailored advice, tailored to the unique needs of your organization.