--- title: "Microsoft Defender for Office 365 Reviews 2026. Verified Reviews, Pros & Cons | Capterra" description: "Is Microsoft Defender for Office 365 the right Email Security solution for you? Explore 243 verified user reviews from people in industries like yours to make a confident choice." source_url: "https://www.capterra.com/p/219685/Microsoft-Defender-for-Office-365/reviews/" page_type: "reviews" language: "en" publication_date: "2026-09-30" --- Microsoft Defender for Office 365 4.6 (243) [View alternatives](https://www.capterra.com/p/219685/Microsoft-Defender-for-Office-365/alternatives/) Provider data verified by our Software Research team, and reviews moderated by our Reviews Verification team. [Learn more](https://www.capterra.com/our-story/) * * * Last updated September 30th, 2026 # Reviews of Microsoft Defender for Office 365 Ease of use 4.5 Customer Service 4.3 ## Pros and Cons in Reviews Swetha C Technical Program ManangerAutomotive, 5,001 - 10,000 employeesUsed the software for: 1-2 years. “The platform integrates well with the Microsoft ecosystem and helps strengthen an organization's overall security posture. While there is some complexity during setup and management, the protection and security benefits make it a valuable solution for businesses of all sizes.“ May 31, 2026 Gerald W PresidentEntertainment, Self-employedUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “I use Malwarebytes as well and that gives me a lot of false positives which can be a real nuisance.“ January 21, 2025 JD Josh D IT Support EngineerInformation Technology and Services, 51 - 200 employeesUsed the software for: 1-2 years. “Microsoft Defender for Office 365 provides excellent protection against phishing, spam, malware, and other email-based threats. As it is tightly integrated with Microsoft 365, deployment and management are straightforward, and it works seamlessly alongside the wider Microsoft security ecosystem.“ July 26, 2026 MC Michelle C CEOCivic & Social Organization, 11 - 50 employeesUsed the software for: 1-2 years. “The learning curve can be frustrating.“ June 23, 2026 JD Josh D IT Support EngineerInformation Technology and Services, 51 - 200 employeesUsed the software for: 1-2 years. “Customer support has generally been satisfactory when required, although many issues can often be resolved using Microsoft's extensive documentation and built-in reporting tools. While there is a learning curve and occasional false positives to manage, the overall level of protection, automation, and visibility makes it an excellent email security solution that we would recommend to organisations of all sizes.“ July 26, 2026 Gerald W PresidentEntertainment, Self-employedUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “I haven't been able to find any way to contact direct customer support with a real person.“ January 21, 2025 JD Josh D IT Support EngineerInformation Technology and Services, 51 - 200 employeesUsed the software for: 1-2 years. “The integration with Microsoft 365 makes deployment and management straightforward, while the wide range of security features provides strong protection against modern threats.“ July 26, 2026 Gerald W PresidentEntertainment, Self-employedUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “A few years back I had some false positives, but not for a long time.“ January 21, 2025 ## Showing most helpful reviews Showing 1-25 of 243 Reviews Sort by: Most Helpful Rating Company Size Reviewer's Role Length of Use Frequency of Use Adam M. Senior Technical Writer Information Technology and Services Used the software for: 6-12 months ### "Effective protection w/ natural integration" September 28, 2026 5.0 I trust this program to give me effective protection against phishing, malicious links, unsafe attachments and other threats across the Microsoft 365 environment. It largely operates in the background, providing strong security without causing a nuisance to everyday work. As I mentioned, our organisation is now moving more of its corporate environment onto Microsoft’s security platform, which is a strong measure of the confidence the business has developed in its effectiveness and wider integration capabilities. Pros Built into Windows, this is far superior from older built in security and we are switching our corporate systems to run on it which is a measure of confidence. It largely runs in the background but onopening the settings, quick security scans can be run on demand, and more information is avaialble to view. Integration into the MS environment is the main strength. Cons The administrator portal contains a large number of policies, reports and configuration options, which can make it difficult for less experienced administrators to find the correct setting. Initial configuration and policy tuning require specialist knowledge. Occasional false positives can also result in legitimate messages being quarantined in my expereicne, so the reporting and release process needs to remain clear and efficient. Review Source JD Josh D. IT Support Engineer Information Technology and Services Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "Strong Email Security with Excellent Microsoft 365 Integration" July 26, 2026 4.0 Our overall experience with Microsoft Defender for Office 365 has been very positive. It has significantly improved email security by reducing spam, phishing attempts, and malicious attachments reaching users. The integration with Microsoft 365 makes deployment and management straightforward, while the wide range of security features provides strong protection against modern threats. The platform offers good value for money, particularly for organisations already using Microsoft 365, as it enhances security without introducing another separate management platform. Customer support has generally been satisfactory when required, although many issues can often be resolved using Microsoft's extensive documentation and built-in reporting tools. While there is a learning curve and occasional false positives to manage, the overall level of protection, automation, and visibility makes it an excellent email security solution that we would recommend to organisations of all sizes. Pros Microsoft Defender for Office 365 provides excellent protection against phishing, spam, malware, and other email-based threats. As it is tightly integrated with Microsoft 365, deployment and management are straightforward, and it works seamlessly alongside the wider Microsoft security ecosystem. One of the biggest advantages is the visibility it provides into threats, allowing administrators to investigate emails, review detections, and take action quickly. Features such as Safe Links, Safe Attachments, anti-phishing policies, and automated remediation help reduce risk while requiring minimal ongoing administration. The platform also integrates well with other Microsoft security products, making it a strong choice for organisations already invested in Microsoft 365. From a value for money perspective, it delivers significant security benefits without requiring additional third-party email security platforms in many environments. Cons The learning curve can be steep, particularly when navigating the various security portals, policies, reports, and alerting options. New administrators may find it takes time to understand where settings and investigations are located. There can also be occasional false positives or legitimate emails being quarantined, requiring review and adjustment of policies. Some reporting and troubleshooting workflows could be more intuitive, especially when tracking why a specific email was blocked or filtered. Review Source Heather A. Senior Loan Processor Financial Services Used the software for: 2+ years ### "I hope Microsoft really focuses more on this software again. " June 9, 2022 2.0 Pros What I like most about this software is how inexpensive it is. When you buy a new computer that has Microsoft Windows on it, it is already ready to go for the user to use. Cons What I like least is this product worked for a while but now it is back to not feeling safe when it is running. You really have to really look into this software because you have to put some effort into it. Switched from [Trellix Endpoint Security](https://www.capterra.com/p/151734/McAfee-Endpoint-Security/) Because I read reviews and I felt I could believe what I was reading when it says this product has become safer and more up-to-date compared to years ago when it did not work at all. Review Source BL Brooke L. Student Education Management Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Microsoft Defender is the best defender" June 21, 2026 5.0 Microsoft Defender has kept my Microsoft 365 programs from being attacked by malicious or suspicious spam. Pros There is little to no learning curve. The setup, email and scan is very easily accessible. It helps to block out spam mail and malicious spam. Customer support is fast and efficient. Due to the high protection of the software, it is value for money. Cons I have yet to experience any bugs or issues with the software. I still utilize this software today and have for 2 years. Switched from [ZERO Virus Security](https://www.capterra.com/p/10014897/ZERO-Virus-Security/) Because I was told by a former co-worker that Microsoft Defender is better value for money. Review Source MC Michelle C. CEO Civic & Social Organization Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "Strong Protection, But Needs Clearer User Guidance" June 23, 2026 5.0 My overall experience with Microsoft Defender for Office 365 is that it is a valuable tool, but it needs to be more user-friendly and accessible. Email security is extremely important, especially when people are handling sensitive information, public benefits, medical records, school issues, and advocacy work. However, security tools should not only protect users, they should also help users understand what is happening in clear language. Defender has useful features, but the setup, alerts, and reports could be improved so that everyday users can feel confident, informed, and protected. Pros What I liked most about Microsoft Defender for Office 365 is that it adds an important layer of protection for email, links, attachments, and potential spam or phishing attempts. For people who rely heavily on email for advocacy, school, benefits, medical care, and family communication, security matters. I appreciate that it is meant to help catch threats before they cause harm and that it works within Microsoft 365 instead of requiring a completely separate system. Cons What I liked least is that it is not always easy to understand from a regular user’s perspective. Some of the reports, alerts, and security language can feel too technical, especially for people who are not IT professionals. I would like clearer explanations, better plain-language guidance, and easier ways to understand what actually happened, what was blocked, and what action the user needs to take next. The learning curve can be frustrating. Review Source Swetha C. Technical Program Mananger Automotive Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "Strong Email Security and Phishing Protection for Microsoft 365" May 31, 2026 5.0 Overall, Microsoft Defender for Office 365 has been a reliable email security solution. It significantly reduces spam, phishing attempts, and malicious email threats while providing administrators with useful visibility into security events. The platform integrates well with the Microsoft ecosystem and helps strengthen an organization's overall security posture. While there is some complexity during setup and management, the protection and security benefits make it a valuable solution for businesses of all sizes. Pros Microsoft Defender for Office 365 provides strong protection against phishing attacks, malware, and suspicious email activity. The threat detection capabilities are effective, and the integration with Microsoft 365 makes it easy to manage security policies across the organization. Features such as Safe Links and Safe Attachments add an extra layer of protection without significantly impacting user productivity. Cons The initial setup and policy configuration can be complex for organizations without dedicated security expertise. Some advanced security features require a learning curve to fully understand, and investigating alerts can sometimes generate more notifications than necessary. Review Source VR Verified Reviewer Marketing Specialist Environmental Services Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "Great for Microsoft Integration" April 30, 2026 5.0 Pros I like that Microsoft has built-in security and antivirus software that connects across all of the Microsoft applications. Easy to set up and integrate across laptops, computers, and phones. Cons Staying on top of making sure everything is up to date. Because Microsoft runs across phones, computers, and laptops, for a non-tech person, it can be intimidating to make sure I'm always protected on all devices. Review Source Michelle F. Owner Consumer Services Used the software for: 6-12 months ### "A+ for Microsoft, Great Value" April 19, 2026 4.0 Easy to use, value for the money and user friendly to implement into business! Would highly recommend. Pros Value for the money, easy to learn and work with. Easy to implement into computer. File storage is very easy. Cons Glitches sometimes as Microsoft products do. Usually get nothing loading when opening the app on desktop. Review Source dD deontay D. Recruiting Manager Human Resources Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Defender review " September 23, 2026 5.0 Pros We like that it helps defend off any virus or any spam emails that we may get in our email for work. Cons The least that i like is that how i do not get any notifications or i have a hard time trying to locate how to see if we have spam or viruses. Review Source JB Jennifer B. Marketing and sales Consumer Services Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Great and user friendly " March 23, 2026 5.0 Pros Great to use. User friendly no huge learning curve setup is easy if you need customer support they’re always there ready and willing. Cons Nothing I really don’t like about it. It’s just so simple to use easy to access easy to trouble shoot Review Source AO Alvin O. Cyber Security Specialist Information Technology and Services Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Anti-phishing controls for active inboxes." August 27, 2025 4.0 Phishing and malware protection were enhanced, auto-quarantine reduced malicious emails, and safe download warnings safeguarded our team files. Pros Real-time spam and threat protection of secure team messages, with guidance for configuring attachments and storage of files. Cons Steep learning curve when configuring advanced rules or email routing, and support documentation isn't always compatible with our usage scenario. Review Source RS RICARDO S. Sales Representative Computer Software Used the software for: 6-12 months ### "Strong protection" February 28, 2025 5.0 It has contributed to a more secure environment in the business. Pros The integration with Office 365 is really good, it provides the protection you need for emails, attachments, links, etc Cons Maybe when legitimate email are flagged as threats but not a big deal. Review Source VR Verified Reviewer Director Non-Profit Organization Management Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "My Microsoft Defender for Office 365 review" June 28, 2021 5.0 If you want the least intrusive security solution for your computer, Windows Defender is the way to go. Pros Our organization was gifted Microsoft office 365 business premium for free. "Office 365 Advanced Threat Protection" anti-malware, anti-phishing, anti-spam software's has been a great addition. The best part is that it immediately triggers or alarms if any malicious item or threat is detected, and it comes with an analysis report to help you fix it. It simply protects our organization by operating behind the shield, providing us with a secure platform with an added layer of security and protection. In today's workplace, email is one of the most common and powerful forms of communication; we rely heavily on email communications with colleagues, collaborators, and donors. However, email is the most common attack vector used by threat actors to target and compromise your users in order to breach the security environment of our organization! Cons Our organization's policies determine the behavior and level of protection for predefined threats. The security team at our organization, for example, can set up fine-grained threat protection at the user, organization, and domain levels. Because new threats and challenges emerge on a daily basis, policies must be reviewed on a regular basis. Reason for choosing Microsoft Defender for Office 365 To detect malicious payloads in files, emails, and all types of external drives, we use Microsoft Defender Antivirus. It aids us in detecting any malicious load that may endanger the security of any of our systems. Review Source Joe A. IT Director Non-Profit Organization Management Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Effective first line defense" November 11, 2021 4.0 I'm satisfied overall I don't see the need to use a 3rd party solution at the moment. Pros I went with the higher tier plan available on the Office 365 E5 or Microsoft 365 E5 that offers more protection beyond what EOP could offer. Combining the layered defense consisting of Anti-Phishing, Anti-Spam, Anti-malware, Safe attachments, safe links, and attack simulation has proven to be an effective solution to combat email threats which continues to be on the top of the list of why organizations are getting hacked. Cons There does not seem to be a consistent location in the web UI where to manage the policies and rules. The web interface can be frustrating slow at times. Reason for choosing Microsoft Defender for Office 365 It made the most sense it is already built to be a seamless integration to Office 365. Review Source LS Leeanne S. Carer Hospitality Used the software for: 2+ years ### "My own review on Microsoft Defender for office 365 " June 29, 2021 5.0 I really haven’t had a bad experience using this software I’ve always chosen Microsoft software over any other software for the conference it gives me when using it, it just makes me feel safe that’s why I’ll always choose to use Microsoft software Pros Microsoft has been around forever it’s always lived upto it’s high standards, anything to do with Microsoft you know you can feel very confident using it Cons Really nothing, I really wouldn’t pick using anything other than this software, the confidence it gives me is a pack about the rest Review Source GS GENES S. self employed Telecommunications Used the software for: 6-12 months ### " Confidence" June 16, 2021 5.0 In my case I have been using Microsoft Defender since I had Windows 10 for the first time a few years ago and I never had to format or restore the equipment due to a virus infection. Microsoft Defender is an antivirus that performs excellently with its commitment always and when we separate what we download from the internet and there is a case of its warnings. Pros It's great that for both Windows 8 and Windows 10 you don't need to install an antivirus because your operating system has one built in and cataloged as very good, with Microsoft Defender. Excellent antivirus and very easy to use, its menus are very intuitive divided into sections with relevant information that are easy to understand, constant updates and it includes a Firewall to keep yourself protected from the threats of the red, as well as the control of the accounts of User granting no permissions for ciertas actions. Microsoft Defender is everything you are looking for to be safe with your computer and to be an integrated program in the system we will not have any type of advertising and its notifications are not abusive as far as recursion is concerned. We practically don't know what's there. Cons It's very strict around the uninstallation of the misma, it's impossible. Also enabling its features, it is not possible to disable all its functions when the user has amerite. There is no total control of the antivirus but it is understandable because it is integrated into the system. Review Source Gideon M. project assistant Health, Wellness and Fitness Used the software for: 6-12 months ### "All you need to know about Microsoft Defender for office 365 - from the user." March 8, 2022 5.0 Microsoft defender has all a computer user may need for protection, giving it a try is the better way to go. Pros Easy to use & easy to work with. It runs in the background without needing much of your control & monitoring. Cons Was a bit slow during installation. Maybe it was my PC, Not sure Review Source ME Mazen E. IT Director Hospital & Health Care Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Mazen Review" August 11, 2023 4.0 6 years Pros Antispam & Antivirus & threat detection Alternatives considered [Google Cloud Storage](https://www.capterra.com/p/253631/Google-Cloud-Storage/) Reason for choosing Microsoft Defender for Office 365 More safe & easy for admin Review Source FS Felicia S. Freelancer Computer Software Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Microsoft Defender Review" April 22, 2021 5.0 As an individual who works from my home office, it is extremely important that my computer is running properly, so it is imperative that I have trusted security software to help me achieve that outcome. I must say, Microsoft Defender has been and is continuously essential in me doing that. Microsoft Defender has been compatible with the client systems that I have to access in order to perform my day to day business. My computer has been protected safe and protected from malware and spyware that has tried to attack my computer on several occasions! So, I can't say enough about this product, as it is one of the best on the market! Pros What I really like about this product the most is that it comes pre-installed on your Windows operating computer. I didn't have to sign up for a free trial with another security software application in order to protect my computer and then turn around and pay for a monthly subscription thereafter, upon the expiration of a free trial! Microsoft in general takes the time to considerate their customer's experience and they continued the trend with Microsoft Defender. Cons If I had to nitpick and find one thing about the software that I don't particularly like about Microsoft Defender, it would be the fact that its not compatible with some of the other computer security software applications around. You can't operate both on your computer at the same time. However, you really don't need any other protection when using Defender. Review Source VR Verified Reviewer Sound Engineer Media Production Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "Fantastic " September 17, 2023 5.0 Perfect at all Pros Faster than else others .perfect T all . Cons Fast mor than else 👍👍👍👍 perfect at all Review Source Suhailah S. Administrative Assistant Retail Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Help me protect my computer and information" July 7, 2021 5.0 Pros Microsoft Defender is per-build whenever the computer is install with windows operating system, so i do not have to install it manually as it will automatically activated at the same time that the windows is activated. I do not have to install other anti-virus software as this software has protecting my computer effectively. Cons There are not option to schedule or select a time for the software to downloading update for the software. It will slowing down my internet connection every-time it is updating and affecting me when i am using the computer while working. Review Source MM Moaz M. vet Veterinary Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Microsoft Defender for Office 365 review " August 10, 2023 4.0 Microsoft Defender for Office 365 is a comprehensive suite of security solutions that protect your organization's Office 365 environment from a variety of threats. It includes features for email protection, web protection, data protection, and device protection.I have been using Microsoft Defender for Office 365 for several years and have been very impressed with its performance. It has successfully blocked a number of phishing emails and malware attacks. I also like the fact that it is easy to use and can be configured to meet the specific needs of my organization.Overall, I would highly recommend Microsoft Defender for Office 365 to any organization that is looking for a comprehensive solution to protect its Office 365 environment. Pros The features that I like most about Microsoft Defender for Office 365 are its email protection, web protection, and data protection features. The email protection feature blocks phishing emails and other malicious emails from reaching your inbox. The web protection feature protects you from malicious websites and downloads. The data protection feature protects your sensitive data from being leaked or stolen. Cons The only downside to Microsoft Defender for Office 365 is that it can be a bit expensive. However, I believe that the cost is justified by the level of protection that it provides. Review Source GN Gregory N. IT Support Analyst Mechanical or Industrial Engineering Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Defender worth the money" June 5, 2023 4.0 Pros Worth the cost - easy to setup and deploy - easy to maintain Cons Could use more features and allow the end user more permissions. Review Source ŁK Łukasz K. IT Specialist Philanthropy Used the software for: 2+ years ### "helping to protect the confidentiality of messages" May 30, 2023 5.0 I'm happy with the invisible work that Microsoft Defender is doing. It protects the organization against a multitude of threats. Pros high-class filtering of threats along with the analysis of threats inside the message. Protection of sensitive data against leakage. Cons works fine, currently I have not found any flaws Review Source MS Mohamed S. Senior HR talent acquisition Retail Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Microsoft office 365 is the best in new technology life " October 19, 2022 5.0 Microsoft Office is one of the most important programs that are currently available. I use it in all business now. We use it in word to write articles, prepare plans, etc., and use Excel daily in all financial work, reviews and reports in general, and outlook for sending emails and PowerPoint to make presentations about business and others. Really, Microsoft Office The most important program currently on the face of the earth and we could not abandon it. Pros 1.I can work anywhere, anytime.2.It is perfect formula and share any files with easy ways .3.Mix and match plans Cons 1.Subscriptions aren’t for everyone.2.Most people only use 20% of the functionality.3.I don’t actually own the software Review Source Similar Products Featured