An Office 365 subscription (now known as Microsoft 365) is probably familiar to many, as it’s the online version of the classic Microsoft Office suite. It still provides the usual services to home, business and education users, with some additional features that supply all the tools we might need to work efficiently online. Let’s explore the pros and cons of switching to an Office 365 subscription.
The Pros of an Office 365 Subscription
Remote Access with Office 365
One of the key advantages of an Office 365 subscription is the ability for staff to access emails and documents remotely. This means that colleagues or employees can report, collaborate, and stay connected from any location with an internet connection.
For example, absent or mobile workers can remain up to date with current or changing workflows by accessing and responding to email messages. Additionally, they can retrieve important documents stored within Office 365. If internet access is interrupted, staff can still use the desktop version of Office 365 and synchronise their work once connectivity is restored. This ensures that productivity is maintained even during temporary outages.
Outworking with an Office 365
Since Office 365 is Cloud-hosted, it offers seamless file sharing, co-authoring, and updating from multiple locations. This is particularly beneficial for businesses looking to support remote working arrangements.
With employees able to work on shared documents without being physically present in the same office, companies can make significant savings on office space, electricity, travel expenses, and paper. This flexibility not only enhances productivity but also contributes to cost efficiency and a reduced carbon footprint.
IT Support for an Office 365 Subscription
Another major advantage of an Office 365 subscription is the continuous IT support provided by Microsoft engineers. They are constantly monitoring and updating the software to ensure optimal performance and security.
From the initial setup to troubleshooting issues, Microsoft’s tech team is available to guide users through any challenges. This is particularly valuable for home users and small businesses that may not have dedicated IT teams. Knowing that Microsoft’s experts handle the technical aspects allows users to focus on their core business operations with confidence.
Budgeting with an Office
Switching to an Office 365 subscription can also help reduce overall monthly or annual expenses on third-party software and service providers.
Microsoft has been a leader in developing user-friendly software packages and integrated solutions for homes, businesses, and educational institutions for many years. Their ongoing research and expertise are continually reflected in their latest software versions, with updates and security patches included at no extra cost. Since everything is covered within the monthly subscription fee, budgeting becomes more predictable and manageable.
Security Features of an Office 365 Subscription
When using Cloud-based systems like Office 365, security is often a primary concern. Fortunately, an Office 365 subscription includes several enterprise-grade security features designed to protect users’ data.
For instance, the data-loss protection feature ensures that vital work can be restored if needed. There is also a mobile device protection feature that allows data to be remotely erased in case a phone or computing device is lost or stolen. Additionally, Office 365 includes security measures to combat threats from phishing emails and malware attachments. These built-in protections provide peace of mind for users handling sensitive or confidential information.
Choice of Plans with Microsoft
Microsoft offers a range of Office 365 subscription plans tailored to different users, whether for home, student, or business use.
Users can select the plan that best meets their current requirements and, if necessary, upgrade to a different plan later to access additional features. This flexibility ensures that users can adapt their subscription as their needs evolve, without being locked into a single option.
The Cons of an Office 365 Subscription
The Internet Reliability of Office 365
Since Office 365 is a Cloud-based system, a stable internet connection is essential for seamless access. If a user experiences frequent downtime or lacks reliable internet access, they may encounter difficulties.
To mitigate this issue, Microsoft includes a desktop version of Office 365 that allows users to work offline for a certain period. Once internet connectivity is restored, files can be uploaded and synchronised. However, some users have reported problems with restoring access and software de-registering itself, which can be frustrating.
Security Concerns with Cloud Storage
Many users are understandably concerned about storing their work off-premises in the Cloud, as centralised services can be attractive targets for hackers.
That being said, Microsoft takes security very seriously and has developed various measures to protect user accounts. While alternative security solutions exist, not all providers offer the same level of frequent updates and proactive defence mechanisms as Microsoft. Therefore, users must weigh the risks and benefits when considering Cloud-based storage solutions.
Office Compatibility Problems
Compatibility issues are another potential drawback of an Office 365 subscription. When new software is released, business owners often look forward to the benefits, only to discover that their existing computers or laptops may not support it.
Despite Microsoft also developing operating systems, compatibility issues can still arise. In some cases, users may need to switch to another version of Microsoft Office, upgrade their operating system, or even replace their hardware to continue using Office 365 effectively. This can lead to additional costs that may not have been initially anticipated.
Final Thoughts
Overall, an Office 365 subscription offers numerous advantages for work, home, and education. As the world increasingly moves online, businesses and educational institutions are striving to keep up with technological advancements.
For individuals and teams who need to study remotely, work flexibly, or collaborate with colleagues across different locations, Office 365 provides a powerful and convenient solution. However, it is essential to consider potential challenges such as internet reliability, security concerns, and compatibility issues before making a commitment.
How much is a Microsoft Office 365 subscription?
The cost of a Microsoft Office 365 subscription can vary depending on the plan you choose and the number of users. Here are the key details of our package pricing:
- Business Basic is €19.99
- Business Standard is €26.99
- Business Premium is €38.99
By setting your business free with Microsoft 365, you can enjoy 6 key benefits for small businesses – increased productivity, improved collaboration, remote accessibility, enhanced security, cost savings, and seamless IT support.
Can I move an Office subscription to another computer?
The great news is that you can easily move your Office 365 subscription to another computer. Here’s how it works:
- The subscription is tied to your Microsoft account, not a specific device
- You can install and use the Office apps on up to 5 devices per user
- This allows you to access your documents and emails from anywhere, setting your business free with the mobility and flexibility of Microsoft 365
Want to find out the pros and cons of Office 365? Find out more here.
Can I share my subscription?
Yes, you can absolutely share your Office 365 subscription with others. Most plans have this capability built-in. Let’s take a closer look:
- Most Office 365 plans allow you to add up to 6 family members or colleagues
- They get their own logins and access to the full suite of apps
Sharing the subscription can be a cost-effective way for small businesses to get the benefits of Office 365
