What is Microsoft Secure Score?

Microsoft Secure Score is a metric from 0 to 100% that reflects how secure your Microsoft 365 environment is based on your security settings and practices. Think of it as a quick health check for your Microsoft 365 security.

Why Does It Matter?

Many cyber insurance companies ask for your Secure Score before offering coverage. Plus, potential clients might want to see your score before doing business with you. If your score is low, it might raise red flags or increase premiums.

What is a Good Secure Score?

• 60-80% = Good — you have solid security in place.

• 80%+ = Excellent — you’re doing a lot right.

• Below 60% = Needs improvement — time to take action.

How to Find Your Secure Score

1. Go to the Microsoft 365 Admin Center.

2. Navigate to Admin Centers > Security.

3. Click on Microsoft Secure Score.

4. You’ll see your current score and a list of recommended actions to improve it.

Four Key Areas to Improve Your Secure Score:

1. Protect Your Users

• Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for all users, especially admins.

• Use Conditional Access policies to enforce MFA and block risky sign-ins.

• Limit the number of users with Global Admin rights — Microsoft recommends only 2: a main and a backup account.

2. Protect Your Email

• Set up Microsoft Defender for Office 365 for advanced email threat protection.

• Configure SPF, DKIM, and DMARC DNS records to reduce spoofing and phishing risks.

3. Protect Your Devices

• Only allow company-owned devices to access Microsoft 365 data.

• Use Microsoft Intune to manage and enforce security policies on devices.

• Enable BitLocker and Defender for Business to protect device data and block threats.

• Use Conditional Access to block unmanaged or non-compliant devices.

4. Protect Your Data

• Implement data loss prevention (DLP) policies.

• Use encryption and sensitivity labels.

• Regularly review access permissions.

Quick Tip

Don’t try to do everything at once. Roll out changes gradually to avoid frustrating your users or causing lockouts.

Summary

Improving your Microsoft Secure Score isn’t rocket science — it’s good cyber hygiene. Start by enabling MFA, protecting your email, securing devices, and managing admin accounts carefully. With the right Microsoft 365 Business Premium license and a bit of effort, you’ll boost your score and your overall security.