Microsoft Defender for Office 365 vs Microsoft Exchange Online Protection (EOP) comparison

Microsoft Exchange Online Protection and Microsoft Defender for Office 365 both compete in the email security category. Defender for Office 365 appears to have an edge due to its advanced threat management features and its comprehensive threat visibility through a unified console.

Features: Microsoft Exchange Online Protection provides centralized alert management, efficient admin interface, and real-time suspicious URL review. It includes effective anti-phishing and anti-malware protections. Microsoft Defender for Office 365, on the other hand, offers advanced threat management policies, extensive threat visibility via an integrated single console, and enhanced data loss prevention features.

Room for Improvement: Microsoft Exchange Online Protection could improve by integrating additional mailing features, enhancing security compliance, and better handling gray emails. Users also desire a more intuitive management interface and improved documentation. For Microsoft Defender for Office 365, enhancements are needed in threat visibility, simplified deployment, and threat intelligence. More comprehensive training and documentation are also sought after by users.

Ease of Deployment and Customer Service: Both solutions support Public Cloud with some Hybrid and On-premises capabilities. Microsoft Exchange Online Protection users report mixed experiences with technical support, appreciating quick responses but also noting delays. Defender for Office 365 is praised for its support team but sometimes has slow service. Communication effectiveness depends on the technical support encounter.

Pricing and ROI: Both Microsoft Exchange Online Protection and Microsoft Defender for Office 365 are priced higher but offer significant returns on investment. Microsoft Exchange Online Protection is seen as moderately priced and provides value through reduced incidents and security features, though it might be costly for smaller businesses. Defender for Office 365, as part of an Office 365 license, offers great value through its comprehensive threat management features, though cost may impact smaller organizations. Users consider both solutions worthwhile investments due to their security and productivity benefits.