Build a Robust Security Architecture With Microsoft Technologies

While Microsoft’s extensive product ecosystem includes a variety of security capabilities, organizations frequently find themselves with these tools unintentionally, as part of broader Microsoft bundles. Whether deliberately chosen or passively acquired, the inherent complexity of Microsoft’s security stack leaves users struggling to understand and fully leverage their value, resulting in underuse, redundancy, and a fragmented security posture. Our research offers a framework for demystifying Microsoft’s offerings, empowering you to take control of your security, optimize investments, and build a truly robust defense.

It can be hard to know whether your organization’s investment in Microsoft cybersecurity products is sound when you aren’t aware of what tools you are or aren’t using, leading to capability gaps and security tool bloat. That lack of knowledge also hinders your ability to justify using non-Microsoft products.

1. Take a capability-first approach.

Cost consolidation efforts can miss the mark when used to rationalize security tools, as they can result in unacknowledged security gaps. Looking beyond individual tools to focus on capabilities allows you to identify your security stack’s hidden strengths and weaknesses. This capability-first approach can fuel intentional, strategic decisions about what you have, helping you find cost efficiencies and optimizing your security environment.

2. Knowing is half the battle.

Up to 90% of an organization’s security potential goes unused, leading to increased risk, wasted resources, and missed opportunities. IT security leaders must prioritize understanding their full security arsenal to make informed decisions and optimize their defenses.

3. Don’t settle for “good enough.”

Microsoft’s sprawling security ecosystem can result in unintentional overlaps and hidden redundancies, lulling organizations into a false sense of security and masking the need for unique solutions. Don’t simply accept default Microsoft solutions, but assess each capability, justify the use of alternatives, and strategically supplement your Microsoft stack to achieve security outcomes that are right for your organization.

Use this structured framework to optimize your Microsoft tools and build a robust security system

Our research provides four-step guidance, workbooks, and other tools to take a capability-focused accounting of your Microsoft security products. Use this comprehensive framework to optimize Microsoft’s capabilities to your security needs while justifying the use of non-Microsoft products to fill any gaps.

• Conduct a security technology capability assessment to uncover hidden gaps, potential overlaps, and opportunities for optimization.
• Optimize your existing security posture by identifying essential capabilities that are currently not implemented or operating optimally.
• Eliminate duplication to fund new capabilities by making a cost comparison between desired Microsoft capabilities and non-Microsoft tools.
• Justify unused capabilities and overlaps by documenting the use of alternative solutions in place of Microsoft offerings and a clear rationale for each.