When discussing technology giants, Google and Microsoft are two names that inevitably come to mind. Both have significantly impacted the tech industry, with millions around the world using their products and services. Despite operating in similar fields, many differences between the two companies have fueled a long-standing rivalry. Buckle up and let's delve into the world of these tech titans.
Google Security
Email Plans: Google offers various email plans in a straightforward good, better, and best format. Notably, the 'Google Workspace Business Plus' plan comes with extensive security and protection features. It's important to note that all users within a company must be on the same plan; mixed use of basic and plus plans is not allowed.
Endpoint Security: While Google does not offer an endpoint security option directly, it partners with 'Cyber Reason' to provide this service.
Enterprise Mobility Management (EMM): Integrated into the Business Plus plan, 'Google Cloud Identity' serves as an EMM solution. It includes identity services and endpoint administration features available in Google Workspace as a stand-alone service. Administrators can manage users, applications, and devices centrally through the Google Admin console.
Data Loss Prevention: 'Google Endpoint Management' offers robust data security by enforcing screen locks, strong passwords, and selective account or device wipes to remove confidential data. It also simplifies the distribution of business applications from the Admin console, enhancing control over company devices.
Microsoft Security
Licensing and Security Features: Microsoft's purchasing options are more complex, with basic and standard licenses not including inherent security features. However, comprehensive plans with additional security measures are available, and organizations can assign different licenses to various personnel. Key features include 'Safe Links' and 'Safe Attachments,' which protect computers from harmful email spam links and attachments that may bypass antivirus software.
User Security Awareness Training: Microsoft offers a program that distributes simulated phishing emails to users, monitoring their responses. Users who fall for these simulated attacks receive subsequent training to prevent future mistakes.
Endpoint Security: 'Microsoft Defender for Endpoint Plan 1 & 2' are installed directly on user devices. Plan 1 offers a full suite of management tools, while Plan 2 provides advanced investigative features to safeguard other systems and prevent future breaches.
Identity and Access Management: 'Azure Active Directory' (Azure AD) is a cloud-based service that allows employees to access external resources like Microsoft 365 and third-party SaaS applications, as well as internal resources such as corporate intranet apps and custom cloud apps.
Endpoint Management: 'Microsoft Intune' is a cloud-based solution that simplifies user access and app and device management across multiple platforms, including mobile devices, desktop computers, and virtual endpoints.
Data Governance: 'Microsoft Purview' offers a comprehensive data governance solution for managing and governing on-premises, multi-cloud, and SaaS data. It enables automated data discovery, sensitive data classification, and end-to-end data lineage, providing secure access to trustworthy data.
Conclusion
Both Google and Microsoft provide a range of security features and solutions to help organizations protect their data and systems from security breaches. It's essential for organizations to evaluate their specific security needs and consider the features and solutions offered by Google and Microsoft to ensure optimal protection. To view the full Livestream highlighting the security features of both companies, click here.
As businesses increasingly move online, having reliable IT and cybersecurity services is crucial. Contact us to learn how we can help you protect your business and clients.