Our Thinking | Intercity Technology

E3 vs E5: Which Microsoft EMS Security Solution is Right for Your Business?

Written by Intercity | Mar 23, 2018 1:15:00 PM

In the fast-paced, ever-evolving world of business, security should never be an afterthought. As companies embrace the flexibility of modern work, from remote collaboration to cloud-based apps, the risk of cyberattacks skyrockets. That’s why finding the right security solution is more important than ever before.


If you're already diving into the Microsoft ecosystem—whether it's Windows 10, Office 365, Teams, or Surface devices—you’re in the right place. Microsoft’s Enterprise Mobility + Security (EMS) is the solution that gives your business a modern workplace without compromising on security. So, whether you’re a small team or a growing enterprise, EMS is a must-have in your digital toolkit.

But here's the burning question: with two versions of EMS on offer—E3 and E5—how do you know which one is right for you? Let's break it down.

 

The Growing Threat Landscape: Cybersecurity is Everyone's Responsibility

Let’s face it: the world is changing, and so are the tactics of cybercriminals.

Hackers are getting smarter, and businesses of all sizes are feeling the heat. In fact, did you know that a staggering 54% of businesses were hit by cyberattacks in 2017 alone? Even more alarming is the fact that 70% of businesses are still unprepared for the latest cyber threats.

The cost of a breach? It’s not just about downtime and lost productivity. We’re talking about damage to assets, loss of customer trust, regulatory fines, and a whole lot more. So, how do you protect your organisation and keep your digital assets safe in this new age of work? By investing in a rock-solid security strategy—starting with EMS.

What Exactly is Enterprise Mobility & Security (EMS)?

Think of EMS as the ultimate armour for your business, designed to protect everything that keeps the modern workplace running smoothly. It includes everything you need to manage mobile apps and devices, protect information, ensure secure access, and much more. EMS gives you complete control over security without sacrificing productivity.

EMS is made up of five key components:

  • Azure Active Directory
  • Azure Information Protection
  • Microsoft Intune
  • Advanced Threat Analytics
  • Cloud App Security

With these tools at your fingertips, you can keep employees productive, even as they work remotely, while ensuring that your business remains secure. No more worrying about employees using their personal devices or accessing company data on unsecured networks—EMS has it all covered.

EMS E3 vs. E5: The Battle of the Security Titans

Now, let’s get to the juicy part—what’s the difference between EMS E3 and EMS E5? Both versions offer solid protection, but EMS E5 takes it to the next level. Let’s break it down:

EMS E3: The Foundation of Security

EMS E3 is the original, offering everything a business needs to secure its modern workplace. Here’s what you get:

  • Premium P1 Azure Active Directory
  • Premium P1 Azure Information Protection
  • Microsoft Intune
  • Microsoft Advanced Threat Analytics

With EMS E3, you get everything you need to safeguard your digital assets. It’s the ideal solution for businesses looking for a solid, reliable security package.

EMS E5: Next-Level Protection

Ready to kick things up a notch? EMS E5 includes everything from E3 but adds these key upgrades:

  • Premium P2 Azure Active Directory
  • Premium P2 Azure Information Protection
  • Microsoft Cloud App Security

So, what’s the big deal? EMS E5 brings in cutting-edge features like risk-based protection, machine learning, and intelligent data classification. It also gives you more control over cloud app usage, ensuring your business is one step ahead of the latest threats.

So, E3 or E5? The Choice is Yours

The decision between EMS E3 and E5 isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on your organisation’s size, industry, and security needs. If you're looking for a robust, cost-effective solution that covers all the basics, EMS E3 is a great choice. But, if you’re ready to stay ahead of cybercriminals with intelligent security powered by machine learning, EMS E5 is the ultimate weapon.

 

Why Intercity is Your Perfect Security Partner

At Intercity, we don’t just talk the talk—we walk the walk. With over 20 years of experience in providing top-tier Microsoft solutions, we’re experts in helping businesses get the most from their IT investments. Whether you’re just starting with EMS or need to upgrade your security game, our team will work closely with you to implement the perfect solution tailored to your needs.

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all security. That’s why we’re committed to finding the right EMS plan for you and your business—whether it’s E3 or E5, we’ve got you covered with expert guidance and support every step of the way.