Microsoft provides a comprehensive set of best practices and recommendations for securing email, especially when using their Office 365 and Microsoft 365 platforms. Here are some of the key best practices for securing email:

Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): This adds an additional layer of security by requiring two or more verification methods: something you know (password), something you have (a trusted device), or something you are (fingerprint or facial recognition).

Use Strong Passwords: Encourage users to set strong, unique passwords and consider implementing a password policy that requires complexity and regular changes.

Educate Users About Phishing: Regularly train and educate users about the dangers of phishing emails and how to recognize them.

Advanced Threat Protection (ATP): Use Microsoft's ATP to protect against sophisticated threats hidden in email attachments and links, and get cutting-edge defenses against zero-day threats, ransomware, and other advanced malware attempts.

Mailbox Auditing: Turn on mailbox auditing to log mailbox access by mailbox owners, delegates, and administrators.

Message Encryption: Use Office 365 Message Encryption to encrypt emails that contain sensitive information. This ensures that only the intended recipient can read the email.

Data Loss Prevention (DLP): Implement DLP policies to monitor the actions that are being taken on items you've determined to be sensitive and to help prevent the unintentional sharing of those items.

Mobile Device Management (MDM): Use MDM to control which devices have access to email, enforce device security policies, and perform remote wipes of lost devices.

Anti-Spam and Anti-Malware Policies: Ensure that Office 365's anti-spam and anti-malware filters are configured and kept up-to-date.

Safe Attachments and Safe Links: With ATP, you can check email attachments and web links for malicious content.

Configure SPF, DKIM, and DMARC: These are email authentication methods designed to detect email spoofing and protect users from phishing attacks.

SPF (Sender Policy Framework): Helps prevent spoofing by verifying that the email is sent from a domain that is authorized to send it.

DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail): Adds a digital signature to emails, allowing the recipient to verify that the email was sent from an authorized system and hasn't been altered.

DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance): Builds on SPF and DKIM and provides a way for recipients to report back to senders about emails that fail authentication checks.

Regularly Review Security & Compliance Center Reports: Microsoft provides various reports that can help you identify potential security issues, so it's a good practice to review these regularly.

Limit Mail Forwarding: Disable automatic mail forwarding to external addresses to prevent data leaks or theft.

Implement Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): Ensure that only necessary personnel have access to specific features in the Exchange admin center.

Regularly Update and Patch: Ensure that all systems, including email servers and clients, are regularly updated and patched to protect against known vulnerabilities.

Backup: Regularly backup emails and ensure that backups are secure and can be restored quickly in case of data loss.

Remember, while these best practices can significantly enhance email security, no system is entirely immune to threats. Continuous monitoring, user education, and staying updated with the latest security recommendations are crucial.

If you want advise on securing your email then Missing Link have a range of security solutions and MFA technologies, so depending on your requirements or risk tolerance we have a solution to suit your needs. If you would like to discuss this or any other related topic, then please contact myself or one of the Missing Link team on info@mlinkuk.com or call 01257 473445 and we will happily guide you through all the pros and cons associated to such a technology.

At Missing Link we often get asked this question and then a follow-up of why we are better than anyone else. We understand that In the digital age, businesses are more reliant than ever on technology. But not every company has the tech-savvy team to handle all their IT needs.

What are IT Managed Services?

In simple terms, IT managed services are outsourced tech solutions. Think of them as your external IT department. They handle everything from network management to cybersecurity, ensuring your business's tech runs seamlessly.

Key IT Managed Services Every UK Business Should Know About:

1. Network Management:
• What it is: Ensuring your business network runs without a hitch.
• Why it's essential: A smooth network means no unexpected downtimes and efficient business operations.
2. Cloud Services:
• What it is: Helping your business utilise the cloud, from migration to daily management.
• Why it's essential: The cloud offers secure data storage and easy access, making business operations more flexible.
3. Cybersecurity:
• What it is: Protecting your business from online threats.
• Why it's essential: With cyber threats on the rise, ensuring your business's digital safety is paramount.
4. Data Management:
• What it is: Storing, backing up, and recovering your business data.
• Why it's essential: Data is the heart of your business. Keeping it safe ensures your business's longevity.
5. End-User Support:
• What it is: Providing tech support to your employees.
• Why it's essential: Happy employees mean a productive business.
6. IT Consultancy:
• What it is: Offering expert advice on your business's IT strategy.
• Why it's essential: Stay ahead of tech trends and ensure your business is always at the forefront.
7. Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) Management:
• What it is: Managing and supporting your business's software applications.
• Why it's essential: Ensure all your applications run seamlessly for efficient operations.

Why Should Your Business Consider IT Managed Services?

• Cost-Efficiency: It can be cheaper than hiring a full-time in-house team.
• Expertise on Tap: Access to a team of IT experts without the recruitment hassle.
• Scalability: As your business grows, your IT needs will change. Managed services can adapt to your needs.
• 24/7 Support: Day or night, there's always someone to help out with any tech issues.

In Conclusion

If you're a UK business, IT managed services could be the game-changer you've been waiting for. From ensuring your network runs smoothly to protecting your precious data, these services offer a comprehensive tech solution. So, why not consider outsourcing your IT needs and focus on what you do best - running your business!

If you would like to discuss this or any other related topic, then please contact myself or one of the Missing Link team on info@mlinkuk.com or call 01257 473445 and we will happily guide you through all the pros and cons associated to such a technology.

Alternative Office Suites: Boosting Productivity Beyond M365

In the realm of productivity tools, Microsoft 365 (M365) has long been a popular choice for individuals and businesses. However, with evolving technology and changing user preferences, alternative office suites have emerged, offering comparable features and sometimes even surpassing M365 in certain areas. Let's explore some noteworthy alternatives to the M365 suite that can help enhance your productivity and efficiency.

Google Workspace (formerly G Suite):

Powered by Google Cloud, Google Workspace offers a comprehensive suite of cloud-based productivity tools. With Gmail, Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, and more, it provides real-time collaboration, automatic cloud storage, and seamless integration with other Google services. Google Workspace's intuitive interface and robust collaboration capabilities make it a go-to choice for teams and individuals seeking a cloud-based productivity solution.

LibreOffice:

LibreOffice is a powerful open-source office suite that includes applications like Writer (word processing), Calc (spreadsheet), Impress (presentations), and Base (database management). It supports a wide range of file formats, including Microsoft Office formats, making it ideal for users who frequently exchange documents with M365 users. Highly customizable and featuring a familiar user interface, LibreOffice ensures a smooth transition from M365.

Apple iWork:

Designed exclusively for Mac and iOS users, Apple's iWork suite consists of Pages (word processing), Numbers (spreadsheet), and Keynote (presentations). iWork offers a clean and intuitive interface, seamless integration across Apple devices, and powerful collaboration features. It supports importing and exporting Microsoft Office formats, ensuring compatibility with M365 users.

Zoho Workplace:

Zoho Workplace is a cloud-based office suite that covers word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, email, and collaboration tools. With features like document version control, project management, and team communication, it serves as an all-in-one solution for businesses of all sizes. Zoho Workplace provides a simple and user-friendly interface, while offering robust functionality akin to the M365 suite.

WPS Office:

WPS Office is a free and feature-rich office suite that includes Writer, Spreadsheets, and Presentations. It supports a wide range of file formats, including Microsoft Office files, making it suitable for users who frequently interact with M365 users. With a familiar interface, extensive formatting options, and various templates, WPS Office is a viable alternative for personal and professional use.

In conclusion, while Microsoft 365 has been a dominant force in the productivity software market, alternative office suites have emerged as strong contenders, offering comparable functionality and sometimes even surpassing M365 in specific areas. Whether you opt for Google Workspace, LibreOffice, Apple iWork, Zoho Workplace, or WPS Office, you can find a solution that aligns with your needs and preferences. Exploring these alternatives and considering their unique features, user interfaces, collaboration capabilities, and compatibility with your existing workflows will help you find the office suite that enhances your productivity and work efficiency.

Missing Link have always championed market leading technologies and services. Microsoft in our opinion have the best offering which is the most feature rich and ultimately compatible in today’s world.