Cybersecurity Awareness Month is a time for partners to review security strategies in today’s evolving digital world. This year, the focus is on Microsoft 365 Business Premium, which helps businesses of all sizes manage governance, compliance, and security.  

With AI rapidly advancing, integrating security with governance is more crucial than ever. Technologies like Microsoft 365 Copilot highlight gaps in data management as AI becomes central to business operations. Security now extends beyond threat detection to include responsible AI use, data protection, and trust—supported by solutions such as Microsoft Purview and Defender.  

The SMB Opportunity: E5-Level Security for Under 300 Seats

For the first time, Microsoft has unlocked true E5 capability for the SMB market through their new Business Premium add-ons. The Defender Suite and Purview Suite, bring enterprise-grade security and compliance features to organizations with up to 300 seats.

This is a game-changer. Partners can now deliver advanced threat protection with Defender for Business, data governance and compliance with Purview and Unified security motion across identity, endpoints, cloud apps, and data. This shift represents a $65 million opportunity for Dicker Data partners to better protect customers - and get them ready for the age of AI. 

What Partners Should Do This Month

Cybersecurity Awareness Month is the ideal time to: 

  • Audit customer security using Secure Score and cloud app discovery 
  • Upgrade legacy SKUs to Business Premium with Defender and Purview 
  • Educate on AI governance risks, focusing on Gen AI and OAuth 
  • Use Microsoft training and GTM resources to upskill and stand out 
  • Explore how Chorus Cyber can make your business a 24/7 security expert 

Contact your Dicker Data Microsoft team for support. 

Final Thought: Security Is the Foundation of AI Readiness 

Governance is now the primary concern because AI initiatives expose gaps in data management and compliance, and it needs your security to mitigate risk. 
 
Let’s use this month to not just raise awareness - but to drive action. The tools are here. The opportunity is massive. And the time is now, and the Dicker Data Microsoft team, are here to help you take your portion of this exciting new opportunity. 
 
Your customers, will thank-you for it. 
Now is the time.