Is Your Business Ready for the Microsoft 365 Price Increase? 5 Reasons to Upgrade from Microsoft 365 Business Basic
Microsoft 365 offers a robust suite of tools designed to enhance communication, collaboration, and productivity for businesses of all sizes. However, with multiple subscription plans available, choosing the right license can be overwhelming—especially with Microsoft’s price increase taking effect on April 1, 2025.
Many businesses start with Microsoft 365 Business Basic because it’s an affordable entry point at just $6 per user per month (when billed annually). While it includes core services like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive, and web-based Office apps, many organizations quickly outgrow its limitations.
If your business is still using Microsoft 365 Business Basic, here are five key reasons to consider upgrading.
Microsoft 365 Price Increase Coming April 1, 2025 – Is It Time to Upgrade?
1. Desktop Versions of Office Apps Improve Productivity
One of the biggest drawbacks of the Business Basic plan is that it only includes web and mobile versions of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Many users require the full desktop versions of Microsoft Office apps for enhanced functionality and offline access.
Upgrading to Microsoft 365 Business Standard ($12.50 per user/month) or Microsoft 365 Business Premium ($22 per user/month) provides access to the full suite of desktop applications, including Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Publisher, and Access (Windows only).
For businesses that rely heavily on document creation, data analysis, and presentations, having desktop apps ensures a seamless and efficient workflow.
2. Copilot AI is Only Available on Certain Plans
Microsoft’s Copilot, which enhances productivity through automation, intelligent suggestions, and advanced data analysis, is only available with specific Microsoft 365 plans. Business Basic users do not have access to Copilot.
By upgrading to Business Standard, Business Premium, or an enterprise plan, your team can take advantage of AI-driven capabilities to work smarter, streamline processes, and boost efficiency.
3. Advanced Security & Compliance Protect Your Business
With cyber threats on the rise, businesses must take security seriously. While Business Basic includes standard security features, upgrading to Microsoft 365 Business Premium provides:
- Advanced threat protection against phishing, ransomware, and malware
- Enterprise-grade endpoint security to safeguard devices and sensitive data
- Enhanced compliance controls to meet industry regulations
- Conditional access & multi-factor authentication for improved account security
For businesses handling confidential data or working in regulated industries, the added security features in Business Premium are essential.
4. Licensing Flexibility Saves Costs & Aligns with Roles
Many business owners don’t realize that Microsoft allows mixing and matching license types within an organization. You’re not required to assign the same Microsoft 365 plan to every user.
For example:
- Sales teams might only need the basic features of Business Basic
- Finance and executives may require Business Standard or Premium for advanced tools
- IT and security teams might need Microsoft 365 E5 for additional compliance and security capabilities
By strategically assigning licenses, businesses can reduce unnecessary costs while ensuring each user has the right tools for their role.
5. Increased Storage and Email Capabilities
While Business Basic includes 1TB of OneDrive storage per user, businesses with higher email and data needs may require:
- Larger mailboxes (50GB) and bigger attachment limits (150MB per email) with Business Standard and Premium.
- Email retention policies and compliance solutions in Business Premium to meet regulatory requirements.
Need Help Navigating Microsoft 365 Changes?
Whether you’re considering a license upgrade or preparing for Microsoft’s price increase, the right support can make all the difference. Beyond helping you select the most cost-effective plan, your IT partner should also provide ongoing support for security, compliance, user management, and productivity tools.
For a deeper dive into how we support businesses using Microsoft 365, check out The Ultimate Guide to Microsoft 365 Support in Louisville. It outlines how our team helps local businesses get the most from their investment, from email and Teams management to advanced security and tenant migrations.
How Louisville Geek Can Help
Choosing the right Microsoft 365 license is just the first step—Louisville Geek handles the entire process, from procurement and license assignment to ongoing account administration and support. We ensure your business has the right tools while optimizing costs and security.
