Microsoft 365 Advanced Threat Protection (ATP), now referred to as Microsoft Defender for Office 365, is a cloud-based security solution aimed at protecting organizat Microsoft 365 Advanced Threat Protection (ATP), now known as Microsoft Defender for Office 365, is a cloud-based security solution designed to protect organisations from threats targeting email and collaboration tools such as Outlook, SharePoint, OneDrive, and Teams. It provides advanced protection against phishing attacks, malware, ransomware, and other sophisticated cyber threats by leveraging machine learning, behavioural analysis, and threat intelligence. Microsoft Defender for Office 365 scans incoming email messages, links, and attachments for malicious content, blocking harmful files in real time to prevent attacks. ATP is particularly effective at detecting and preventing malicious email and malicious emails, helping organisations avoid BEC scams and other email-based attacks.
Beyond threat detection and prevention, Microsoft ATP offers advanced security features and response capabilities. Security teams can identify, prioritise, and remediate threats efficiently using tools such as automated investigation and response (AIR), which reduces the time and effort required to manage incidents. Additionally, threat and vulnerability management (TVM) provides insights into the organisation’s security posture. By integrating with other Microsoft security solutions, Microsoft Defender for Office 365 delivers a comprehensive approach that protects email systems and collaborative platforms by blocking malicious content and preventing access to harmful files.
As a cloud-based service, Microsoft Office 365 Advanced Threat Protection strengthens your organisation’s security posture across all Office 365 environments. With features like automated investigation and a focus on emerging threats, ATP ensures that whether you are collaborating through email or tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, and OneDrive, your organisation remains protected against the latest cyber threats.
Key Features of Microsoft Office 365 ATP
ATP is equipped with a robust set of features designed to protect users from advanced cyber threats. ATP Safe Attachments scans email attachments for malicious code, blocking any malicious files before they reach users’ inboxes. ATP Safe Links provides real-time scanning of URLs in emails and web pages, blocking malicious links and displaying warning pages to alert users of potential threats. The solution also offers anti-phishing protection, utilizing machine learning and mailbox intelligence to detect and block phishing attempts. With full visibility into threats and extensive experience in combating cyber threats, ATP empowers organizations to protect their users, files, and links, making it a critical component of any security strategy.
| Capability | What it does | Key Functions / Keywords | Applies to | Admin Outcomes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safe Attachments Email Security | Analyses email attachments in a virtual setting prior to delivery to identify malicious attachments and block malware from entering your network. | Real-Time Scanning, detonation in a secure virtual environment, blocks malicious content and malicious files in incoming messages. | Email (Outlook); SharePoint; OneDrive; Teams | Prevents delivery of malware and ransomware; reduces risk surface across collaboration tools. |
| Safe Attachments (Teams Integration) | Scans files shared in Microsoft Teams to verify safety. | Continuous analysis of uploaded/shared files; enforcement of block/open/copy/move/share controls on harmful files. | Teams | Stops propagation of infected content inside chats and channels. |
| Safe Links | Safeguards users by analysing URLs in emails and Office documents; rewrites links to route through Microsoft’s security service. | URL Scanning and Rewriting, time-of-click checks for malicious links, Real-Time Protection against newly identified and advanced threats. | Email; Office documents (Word/Excel/PowerPoint); Teams | Neutralises phishing and drive-by attacks even if a URL turns malicious later. |
| Anti-Phishing Policies | Uses machine learning to detect phishing techniques where senders mimic trusted entities. | Impersonation Detection, User and Domain Impersonation protection; reduces business email compromise (BEC). | Blocks spoofing/impersonation attempts; protects executives and high-risk users. | |
| Threat Intelligence & Response | Automates triage and response; enables proactive discovery of indicators of compromise. | Automated Investigation and Response (AIR), Threat Hunting, IoCs, suspicious activity detection and response. | Tenant-wide (Email, collaboration, identities) | Faster detection, prioritisation, and remediation; lowers MTTR. |
| Attack Simulation Training | Runs realistic phishing exercises with genuine, non-malicious payloads to improve user awareness. | Authentic Phishing Simulations, Tailored Training via Terranova Security; personalised learning based on outcomes. | End users (organisation-wide) | Modifies user behaviour; reduces likelihood of successful phishing attacks. |
| Real-Time Reports & Insights | Provides near-instant visibility into threats and detailed reporting on protection posture. | Threat Explorer and Real-Time Detection; Thorough Reporting on email security, threat protection status, and mail latency. | Security portals (Defender/M365) | Accelerates investigations; measures effectiveness; informs tuning and policy changes. |
| Integration with Microsoft Security Ecosystem | Seamless connection with other Microsoft security tools for multi-layered defence. | Integrates with Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, Exchange Online Protection, Microsoft Defender for Identity, Azure Security Centre; Centralised Security Management via Microsoft Endpoint Manager. | Devices; identities; email; cloud services | Uniform policies, improved visibility, and more efficient detection and response. |
| Protection for SharePoint, OneDrive and Teams | Adds an extra layer by scanning files at upload/share; blocks harmful files from being opened, copied, moved, or shared. | Safe Attachments for SPO/OD/Teams; Real-Time Scanning and Notifications; detonation; alerts and reports in Microsoft 365 Compliance Centre. | SharePoint; OneDrive; Teams | Swift detection and containment; admin notifications and comprehensive reporting. |
Threat Protection Capabilities
ATP delivers comprehensive threat protection capabilities to shield organizations from sophisticated cyberattacks. Its advanced threat protection features include dynamic delivery, which enables real-time scanning of email attachments and links without delaying message delivery. By integrating with Exchange Online Protection, ATP adds an extra layer of security to your email environment. The compliance centre allows organizations to customize security policies and generate detailed reports, supporting regulatory requirements and internal security standards. Leveraging the advanced security infrastructure of the Microsoft Cloud, ATP provides robust defence against malicious content, including viruses, malware, and phishing attacks, ensuring your organization remains secure against evolving threats.
ATP Benefits
Implementing office 365 advanced threat protection, brings a wide range of benefits to organizations seeking to safeguard their business, users, and data. By defending against malicious attacks and sophisticated cyber threats, ATP helps minimize the risk of data breaches and security incidents. Its automated investigation and response capabilities enable rapid action against detected threats, reducing downtime and enhancing overall security posture. Seamless integration with Microsoft Teams and other collaboration tools ensures that protection extends across all platforms, supporting secure communication and file sharing. With ATP, organizations benefit from improved compliance, reduced risk of cyber threats, and a more resilient security environment—making it an essential investment for any business.
Integration and Compliance of Office 365 ATP
Seamless Integration
- Microsoft 365 Ecosystem: Windows Defender ATP works effortlessly with other Microsoft 365 services, such as Exchange Online (cloud-based Email), SharePoint Online (cloud storage), OneDrive for Business, and Microsoft Teams. This integration provides extensive protection across all collaboration platforms protection your document libraries.
- Extended Detection and Response (XDR): It collaborates with Microsoft Defender for Endpoint to deliver enhanced detection and response functionalities, ensuring a cohesive security stance across email, endpoints, and cloud applications.
Compliance and Reporting
- Regulatory Compliance: Defender for Office 365 assists organizations in meeting various regulatory obligations by offering comprehensive audit logs and reports. These features also enable organizations to perform data analysis, helping to enhance productivity and collaboration. This includes providing protection under the Australian Legislated Cyber Security Bill and the ADS’s Essential 8.
- Security Posture Management: The solution features tools for managing security posture, enabling organizations to implement suggested security configurations and enhance their defences against threats related to email and collaboration.
User Education and Awareness for Office 365 Defender
Policy Tips and Notifications
- User Education: Defender for Office 365 offers policy guidance and alerts to inform users about possible threats and promote safe practices. This fosters a culture of security awareness within the organization.
- Simulations and Training: The solution features phishing simulation tools and specialized training programs designed to assist users in identifying and reacting to phishing attempts as well as other cyber threats.
Priority Account Protection
- Increased Security for High-Risk Accounts: Defender for Office 365 provides advanced security measures and configuration options specifically for high-priority accounts, including executives and other users considered at higher risk. This guarantees that the most sensitive accounts are afforded the utmost level of protection.
ATP Advanced Protection for every business.
In Australia, Microsoft Office 365 Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) is a vital security solution for businesses seeking to protect themselves from suspicious behaviour and advanced threats. With its comprehensive features, including ATP Safe Attachments and Safe Links, ATP provides robust protection against phishing attacks, malicious links, and other sophisticated threats. By integrating with Microsoft Defender and leveraging machine learning and mailbox intelligence, ATP offers enhanced security posture and automated investigation capabilities. As a cloud-based service, ATP is easy to implement and manage, making it an essential component of any organization’s security strategy. By investing in ATP, businesses can enjoy enhanced security, improved compliance, and reduced risk of cyber threats, ensuring the safeguarding of their users, data, and business operations.
For further information on how your business can utilise Microsoft Office 365 and Microsoft Defender for Office 365 contact PIP today.
