If you’re running your business on Microsoft 365 Business Basic or Exchange Online Plan 1, you might be missing out on a huge chunk of what Microsoft 365 was designed to do. From desktop apps and advanced collaboration tools to built-in security and device management, the right licence can completely change the way your team works. Let’s break down what you could be missing, and why upgrading to Business Standard or Premium could be one of the easiest wins for your business this year.
🚫 What Business Basic Doesn’t Include
Business Basic is great for getting started — but it’s exactly that: basic.
Here’s what you might be missing out on:
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No desktop apps — you’re limited to web-only versions of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
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Limited offline access — no working on documents when Wi-Fi drops or on the go.
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No Publisher or Access — missing two core desktop tools used by many small businesses.
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Storage limitations — only 1 TB per user, with no built-in advanced security or backup.
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No device sync — can’t easily manage files, apps, or settings across your devices.
💻 Why Business Standard Makes a Difference
With Microsoft 365 Business Standard (£10.08 + VAT/month) you unlock everything you need to stay connected and productive — on any device.
✅ Full desktop apps – Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access & Publisher, always up to date.
✅ Use across devices – install on up to 5 PCs, Macs, tablets, or smartphones per user.
✅ 1 TB OneDrive cloud storage – syncs seamlessly across devices.
✅ Microsoft Teams – video meetings, chat, and collaboration made easy.
✅ Business-class email – 50 GB mailbox, custom domain support, shared calendars.
💡 Perfect partner for your new iPad or iPhone — all your apps, files, and emails ready wherever you are.
🔐 Go Further with Business Premium
If your business handles sensitive data or remote devices, Microsoft 365 Business Premium is worth every penny.
It includes everything in Business Standard, plus enterprise-grade security tools such as:
🛡 Microsoft Defender for Business – protection from ransomware, phishing, and malware.
🔑 Intune device management – control who can access your data, and remotely wipe lost devices.
🔍 Conditional access & MFA policies – reduce the risk of unauthorised sign-ins.
📊 Information protection – prevent accidental data leaks and keep customer data secure.
📈 Why Upgrade Now
By upgrading, you’ll save money on third-party storage and antivirus subscriptions — because everything you need is already built in. Your team stays connected and productive wherever they work, with full desktop apps that work even when you’re offline, and your business stays protected thanks to Microsoft’s continuous security updates and enterprise-grade safeguards.💬 It’s not just an upgrade — it’s a smarter way to work.
📣 Ready to Get Started?
Ready to see what you’ve been missing?
Talk to Us today about upgrading your Microsoft 365 plan.
We’ll help you choose the right licence, set it up, and make sure your business gets the full value of Microsoft 365.
