Privileged Access Management
Heimdal vs Microsoft 365 E3
Microsoft 365 E3 is built for productivity, not cybersecurity. Heimdal adds complete, integrated protection to your existing Microsoft 365 setup by covering all the security gaps left by E3 under one simple license.
Microsoft E3 stays…
Heimdal completes your protection
E3 provides a useful security foundation, but Microsoft’s model relies heavily on extra bolt-ons and costly upgrades. That quickly becomes expensive, complex, and hard to manage.
E3 is only the start
Microsoft E3 has major functionality gaps in privileged access management (requires E5), DNS protection (requires Entra Internet Access), and advanced threat hunting (requires Sentinel). Each additional capability means buying yet another license.
Mixed quality of support
Most Microsoft-managed security support comes through the Microsoft Partner Network, meaning service quality, expertise, and responsiveness vary greatly between providers.
Unpredictable, rising costs
Microsoft security add-ons are expensive, and pricing is often consumption-based. This makes costs difficult to predict or control as your organization grows.
Complexity by design
Microsoft security products have a steep learning curve. Adding multiple bolt-ons makes your security infrastructure increasingly complex and hard to maintain.
Three reasons to choose…
Heimdal over Microsoft
Thinking of switching to Heimdal?
Simplify your security stack, cut unnecessary costs, and gain comprehensive protection under a single integrated license. Better security starts with Heimdal.
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Seven unified cybersecurity solutions
The world’s widest suite of cybersecurity products
Patch & Asset Management
Deploy and patch software anytime, anywhere, on-the-fly, according to any schedule.
Network security
Detect and block network threats before they hit. Heimdal’s patented AI neural tech predicts DNS threats with 96% accuracy, preventing breaches proactively.
Privileged access management
Grant and revoke user rights automatically, with zero trust controls included. Block risky applications, remove standing privileges, and give access only when it’s truly needed.
Endpoint Security
Secure your enterprise from ransomware, backdoors, rootkits, brute-force attacks, and undetectable malware.
Application control
Block unauthorized software from running in your environment. Heimdal’s Application Control enforces zero trust execution policies, restricts process spawns, and prevents lateral movement without disrupting workflows.
Email and collaboration security
Protect your inboxes from phishing, malware, insider leaks, and more. Heimdal combines standard email filtering with AI-based anomaly detection in one dashboard, giving you complete oversight.
Threat Hunting and Action Center
Unified platform for real-time alert management, data security, and assisted responses.
Vulnerability management
Deploy software, remove vulnerabilities, and meet compliance requirements without the manual effort. Heimdal automates patching, testing, and installation, with most updates completed in under four hours.
Reports hub
Stay ahead of audits and requirements. Heimdal’s Reports Hub gives you executive-level visibility, tracks compliance automatically, and supports frameworks like SOC, NIS2, Cyber Essentials, and more.
16,000+ users secure their businesses with Heimdal
Heimdal vs. Microsoft 365 E3
How does Heimdal compare?
DNS protection across endpoints and network
Not included - no Entra Internet Access or Defender for DNSNGAV, firewall, ransomware prevention, EDR, and UEM
Defender Plan 1 (basic EDR), no firewall or ransomware-specific modulesFull patch and vulnerability management across Windows, macOS, and LinuxLimited to Windows via Intune, no coverage for macOS or LinuxZero Trust App Control with AppFencingNot includedBuilt-in PEDM and PASMNot available — requires upgrade to E5Integrated next-gen SIEM with estate and Microsoft 365 coverageRequires Sentinel setup and E5-level licensingAI-driven inspection of URLs, attachments, and contentBasic protection via Exchange Online Protection (EOP)Fully managed 24/7 SOC with customizable responseOnly available through add-ons, alliance partners, or Microsoft Defender ExpertsFAQS
About Microsoft 365 E3 vs Heimdal
1. What is Microsoft 365 E3 in Microsoft?
Microsoft 365 E3 includes core Office apps like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, along with entry-level security features such as identity and access management, endpoint detection, and compliance tools. It is a strong foundation, but not a complete cybersecurity solution. Additional tools are needed to close the gaps.
2. What is the difference between E3 and E5?
E5 adds advanced security, compliance, and analytics features not included in E3. This includes tools like Microsoft Sentinel and extended threat protection. It also comes at a higher cost, typically around 57 dollars per user compared to 35 for E3.
3. Is Heimdal a good complement to Microsoft E3?
Yes. Microsoft covers productivity, but E3’s security offering is limited. Heimdal integrates with E3 to add the missing layers — DNS security, threat hunting, privileged access management, and more — all managed through one license and one dashboard.
4. Does Microsoft E3 include Microsoft Defender?
Only partially. E3 includes a basic version of Microsoft Defender with anti-malware, device control, and firewall tools. To unlock full functionality, you’ll need additional licensing or a dedicated security platform like Heimdal.
5. Should I choose Microsoft E3 with Heimdal?
Yes, if your team uses Microsoft apps and you want stronger security. E3 is a practical base for productivity. Heimdal adds complete protection on top, turning your E3 license into a full security platform without extra complexity.
Get Started
Turn your existing Microsoft E3 subscription into a complete cybersecurity platform. Schedule your Heimdal demo and simplify security now.
