Pass this checklist to your team right now!
In a world where every second counts and every penny matters, tenant hardening is one of the fastest, most cost-efficient ways an organisation can boost its security posture without major investments.
Here’s our list of actions you can take right now to up your security game:
✅ SECURITY CHECKLIST
- Enforce Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for everyone
Add an extra layer of protection so even if a password is stolen, attackers can’t get in.
- Turn off old sign-in methods like IMAP, POP3 and SMTP basic authentication
These are outdated and often used by attackers to sneak in.
- Review who has admin rights
Limit the number of people with full control and only give access based on what people really need.
- Set up conditional access rules
For example, block sign-ins from unusual locations or only allow access from secure, company-approved devices.
- Use strong or passwordless sign-ins
Encourage things like fingerprint, face recognition, security keys, or the Microsoft Authenticator app.
- Check device compliance
Make sure only devices that are updated and secure can connect to your systems.
- Turn on encryption with BitLocker
Protect laptops and mobile devices so data stays safe even if a device is lost or stolen.
- Switch on Microsoft Defender for Endpoint (if available)
Get visibility into device threats and risks across your business.
- Enable anti-phishing and anti-spam protection
Stop suspicious emails and protect staff from clicking on dangerous links.
- Use Safe Links and Safe Attachments
Automatically scan and block harmful links or files sent by email.
- Control file sharing in SharePoint and OneDrive
Only let staff share files externally when needed, and set expiry dates for shared links.
- Review Microsoft Teams settings
Restrict guest access, manage external chats, and make sure sensitive information isn’t shared accidentally.
The best move you can make right now is to secure your Microsoft 365 estate.
Threats aren’t slowing down they’re automating, evolving, and scaling. The most surefire way to improve your odds is by going back to basics and ensuring your Microsoft 365 estate is configured thoroughly.
Don't make assumptions!
“We configured it once.”
Security is not a checkbox it’s a living process. Workspaces evolve. Teams change. Roles shift. If you’re not auditing regularly, you’re flying blind.
“It works straight out of the box.”
It doesn’t. Every business looks different, the same can be said for your Microsoft environment. Default setup may get you up and running quickly, but fine tuning is crucial. Every configuration in your Microsoft estate should be treated as a potential vulnerability until it is properly inspected, attackers know exactly where to look.
“Our people are trained to spot phish and we have security software.”
That’s excellent news, and you should have this in place. But if you’re not configured properly, your defences can miss things. The traditional castle and moat approach has been stretched in the era of hybrid working and sprawling cloud.
One weak password was all it took to bring down KNP Logistics. A single compromised login led to ransomware that halted operations across the UK. A multi-million-pound business stopped cold because one account wasn’t locked down properly.
We’ll uncover misconfigurations, challenge default assumptions, and surface best-practice controls fast. From improving conditional access and cleaning up legacy roles, to tightening permissions, disabling unused endpoints, locking down admin access, and closing off the misconfigurations attackers look for first. We’ll help you secure your tenant while you perform at your best.
