Office 365 Security Best Practices for Your Business

jstadtler
Aug 12
2 min read

Microsoft Office 365 is one of the most widely used productivity platforms in the world. Its flexibility, cloud access, and built-in tools make it perfect for businesses of all sizes. But with that accessibility comes a challenge—keeping your data and accounts secure.

At Stadtler Tech, we help businesses get the most from Office 365 while making sure it’s protected against cyber threats. Here are our top tips for keeping your Office 365 environment safe.

1. Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA adds an extra step to the login process by requiring a verification code sent to a phone or authenticator app.

Makes it harder for hackers to break in
Protects accounts even if a password is stolen
Easy to set up for all employees

2. Keep Software Updated

Microsoft regularly releases security patches for Office 365 apps.

Turn on automatic updates to stay protected
Ensure all devices—desktop and mobile—are updated
Outdated software is a common target for attacks

3. Strengthen Password Policies

Weak passwords make hacking easy.

Require strong passwords (at least 12 characters, mixed types)
Change them regularly
Avoid reusing passwords across accounts

4. Train Employees to Spot Phishing Emails

Email is still the number one way hackers get in.

Teach staff to be cautious with unexpected links and attachments
Use Office 365’s built-in phishing filters
Encourage reporting of suspicious emails

For additional email security, see our Cybersecurity Solutions.

5. Control Access to Data

Not every employee needs access to every file.

Use role-based permissions in SharePoint and OneDrive
Remove access when an employee leaves
Regularly review who can see sensitive data

6. Enable Advanced Threat Protection (ATP)

ATP helps detect and block sophisticated cyber threats.

Filters out malicious links and attachments
Monitors for suspicious behavior in accounts
Provides alerts for potential breaches

7. Backup Your Office 365 Data

Microsoft keeps your data available, but that doesn’t replace a true backup plan.

Use secure cloud or on-site backups
Protect against accidental deletion, ransomware, and sync errors
Make recovery part of your disaster planning

Learn more about how we handle secure backups in our Proactive IT Maintenance & Support.

How Stadtler Tech Can Help

We offer:

Office 365 setup and security configuration
Employee training for safe usage
Ongoing monitoring for suspicious activity
Secure data backup and recovery solutions

Protect Your Office 365 Environment Today

Office 365 is powerful, but it’s only as secure as the measures you put in place. Let Stadtler Tech help you lock it down so you can focus on your work without worrying about cyber threats.

Call us at 630-233-4694 to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can protect your Office 365 setup.