Effective October 1, 2025, Microsoft 365 Business Premium is no longer a prerequisite for Microsoft Defender Suite. Previously, some security add-ons required Microsoft 365 Business Premium as the base license. This dependency has been removed, giving organizations more flexibility in licensing.
On October 1, 2025, Microsoft updated its licensing terms. The change affects the Microsoft Defender Suite, which was formerly branded as Microsoft 365 E5 Security.
- What changed?
Microsoft 365 Business Premium is no longer required to purchase Microsoft Defender Suite. - Why is this important?
Customers can now license Microsoft Defender Suite without upgrading to Business Premium.
What is Microsoft Defender Suite?
Microsoft Defender Suite is a comprehensive security solution. It combines multiple Microsoft security services into one package to protect identities, endpoints, email, and cloud applications.
Key Features
The suite typically includes:
- Microsoft Defender for Endpoint – Advanced endpoint protection.
- Microsoft Defender for Office 365 – Email and collaboration security.
- Microsoft Defender for Identity – Identity threat detection.
- Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps – Cloud application security.
- Microsoft Defender XDR – Extended detection and response across services.
(Exact components may vary by licensing program.)
Licensing
- Before October 1, 2025:
Microsoft 365 Business Premium was required for some Defender add-ons. - After October 1, 2025:
Microsoft Defender Suite can be purchased without Microsoft 365 Business Premium.
Other prerequisites may still apply depending on the specific Defender components.
Recommendation: For detailed licensing guidance, consult the experts at SCHNEIDER IT MANAGEMENT to ensure compliance and optimal cost planning.
For the official Microsoft Product Terms, visit: https://www.microsoft.com/licensing/terms.
For our Microsoft page, please visit: https://www.schneider.im/software/microsoft.
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