Microsoft 365 Best Practices Manual

Microsoft 365 Best Practices Manual

Microsoft 365 tools
Microsoft 365

Day-to-day management and safety recommendations for users

 

1. Password and account security

  • Strong password policy: Use passwords longer than 12 characters, combining upper and lower case letters, numbers and symbols. Change them every 90 days to protect against unauthorized access.
  • Multi-factor authentication (MFA): Add extra security by requiring verification via an application or SMS.
  • Avoid sharing credentials: Prevent unauthorized access. Report compromised accounts to IT support immediately.

2. Email security

  • Identify phishing e-mails: Beware of urgent or unexpected messages, check senders carefully and avoid transmitting sensitive information.
  • Attachments and links: Do not open attachments or click on links from unknown sources. Check links before clicking.
  • Secure email communications: Encrypt sensitive emails to protect confidential data.

3. Data management and storage

  • OneDrive and SharePoint: Store your files securely online to protect your data, facilitate collaboration and benefit from automatic backups.
  • File sharing: Use Microsoft secure links instead of email attachments. Review shared file permissions regularly.
  • Backup and recovery: Synchronize your data regularly on the cloud to ensure recovery in the event of accidental deletion or hardware failure.

4. Equipment safety and maintenance

  • Secure access: Access Microsoft 365 only from secure devices and trusted networks to avoid potential intrusions.
  • Device updates: Install system and antivirus updates regularly to avoid vulnerabilities.
  • Mobile device management: Register your devices with tools such as Microsoft Intune to improve control and security management.

5. Communication and collaboration tools

  • Microsoft Teams security: manage channel permissions, avoid sensitive discussions in open channels and control meeting participants.
  • Secure online meetings: Use waiting rooms or passwords to manage participants and improve security.

6. User awareness

  • Stay informed: Keep up to date with current security risks and threats in the digital environment.
  • Security incidents: Know your organization’s reporting procedures. Immediately report any suspicious activity or breach to IT support.

7. Confidentiality and privacy

  • Data protection: follow organizational and regulatory guidelines (such as the RGPD) for handling sensitive personal data.
  • Confidentiality agreements: Understand your confidentiality obligations. Report accidental disclosures promptly.

8. Logout and session management

  • Session security : Always log out or lock your workstation when you’re away, to reduce the risk of unauthorized access.
  • Public computers: Avoid accessing Microsoft 365 on shared devices. If necessary, use private browsing mode and log out completely afterwards.

9. Basic administration of Microsoft 365 (for novice administrators)

  • User management: Regularly review roles and access levels to ensure that permissions match job responsibilities.
  • Group management : Clearly define who belongs to each group or team. Audit groups regularly to maintain security and efficiency.
  • License management: Manage user licenses efficiently. Remove unused licenses to optimize costs.
  • Audit logs: Check audit logs periodically to detect and investigate suspicious activity.
  • Security and Compliance Center: familiarize yourself with the basic settings of the Microsoft 365 Security and Compliance Center to manage data loss prevention policies, threat protection and compliance obligations.

10. Reporting and assistance

  • IT Helpdesk: Report problems promptly. Maintain open communication with IT support to resolve security issues quickly.

Summary list

☐ Use strong, unique passwords ☐ Enable multi-factor authentication ☐ Vigilance against email phishing threats ☐ Regular backups to OneDrive or SharePoint ☐ Regular device security and updates ☐ Rigorous file sharing management ☐ Stay informed about security risks ☐ Promptly report incidents to IT ☐ Regularly review user roles, licenses and audit logs.

Conclusion

Adhering to these recommendations ensures a secure, efficient and well-managed Microsoft 365 environment, significantly reducing security risks and administrative challenges.