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Microsoft 365: everything you need to know

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You’ve almost definitely heard of Microsoft 365. And if you’ve ever used a laptop or computer, you’ve definitely used one of its apps. The Microsoft 365 programmes (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc) are a staple on pretty much every Windows machine out there – helping you work, chat, store files and do loads more.

But with a handful of different plans to pick from, which one should you go for? Don’t worry. We’ll help you find some software you’ll click with…

Microsoft 365 vs Office 365

Bit of a quick history lesson here. Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Office 365 are like siblings. Office 365 came along first and introduced the classic apps that we all use day to day – we’re talking your PowerPoint’s and your Word’s.

So, what is Microsoft 365? Well, Microsoft 365 hit digital shelves a little later on, building on Office’s success with more features and software to make your life even easier. And this new and improved version is what most of us are using now.

Here’s what each Microsoft 365 plan usually comes with. Just be aware that the Microsoft 365 pricing will differ depending on the package you go for…

  • Word

  • Excel

  • PowerPoint

  • Outlook

  • OneNote

  • OneDrive

  • Microsoft Editor

  • Microsoft Defender

  • Microsoft Teams

  • Clipchamp

There’s great news too. It works across pretty much every platform. If you’re on MacOS, Windows, Android, or iOS, you can use all of the same features. And nobody is missing out!

Plus, most Microsoft 365 plans come in the form of a 12-month subscription (it’s all in the name really). So, if you can’t afford to commit for longer - or just don’t want to -, that’s fine. Just renew your Microsoft 365 subscription whenever you need it again. Simple.

Pricing and plans - what’s right for you?

Microsoft 365 Family

This one’s a bit of a family favourite. The Microsoft 365 Family plan lets up to six people use the entire suite of apps and tools. You won’t have to battle over who needs to use Word on the desktop PC in the lounge. The kids can get their homework done on their laptops, while you polish off that work presentation at the same time. Sorted.

Here’s what we love:

  • More protection – Keep those holiday snaps under wraps by using a PIN, fingerprint, or even your face for some added security.

  • OneDrive backups – We’ve all been there. Your computer’s crashed. Or the hard drive has failed completely. And that project you spent weeks on is gone forever. With OneDrive though, all your documents are stored safely in the cloud. Phew.

Microsoft 365 Business Standard

Now, let’s talk business. If you’re a bit of an entrepreneur, or just run your own company, it’s definitely worth investing in Microsoft 365 Business Standard. This software workhorse isn’t all just about docs and spreadsheets either – it comes with handy tools that make collaboration and teamwork even easier. Because it’s for 1 to 6 people too, you can get your employees set up on it as well.

Here are some of our favourite features:

  • 1 TB of OneDrive cloud storage – Save, edit and share loads of files securely from any device. By saving your progress to the cloud, you can still access that presentation you’re working on, even if you’re swapping between different gadgets.

  • Microsoft Editor – Sending an important email? This writing assistant will give you tips on everything from grammar and punctuation, right down to the specific words you’re using. So, you can write with confidence and seal that deal!

  • SharePoint – Quickly share files across the entire business. All of your colleagues can easily access the latest version of a doc and work on it together.

  • Microsoft Teams – Lots of us work from home more now. But with Teams, meetings can be done remotely from absolutely anywhere. It’s like being in the office – just without that lengthy commute!

Microsoft 365 Personal

If you’re flying solo, Microsoft 365 Personal is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a single plan just for yourself – and includes all the essential apps and extras you need in one place. Making it perfect for your job, or just getting creative at home.

Extra security

Nowadays, we’ve got to be extra careful when we head online. There are more scams and cyber shenanigans going on than ever before. Meaning you’ll want at least some level of digital security to protect your devices. After all, we store a ton of personal data on them!

And luckily Microsoft 365 isn’t just about the fancy apps. It comes packed with extra layers of protection through Microsoft Defender. Letting you work, create and chat without having to worry about unwanted intruders gaining access.

Free for students and teachers

There isn’t actually a version of Microsoft 365 student. But if you’re studying, or you’re a teacher, you’re still in luck. Download Office 365 Education completely free and you’ll get Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Teams for absolutely zilch. Zero. Nada. Nothing! That’s top marks from us. And more money for those uni takeaways for you…

Work across multiple devices

Microsoft 365 is super flexible when it comes to your gadgets. With it, you can work on the same project, and easily swap between your devices to get the job done. So, you could start your assignment by jotting down a few notes on your smartphone. Then tweak it a bit more on your tablet with a first draft. And wrap it up later on using your laptop.

FAQ

Do I need Microsoft 365 to use Word?

Not at all. If you don’t need the full version of Microsoft 365, you can just buy Microsoft Word on its own without going for a complete subscription. And if you do decide you want the rest of the software, you can pick that up later on.

Can I use Microsoft 365 for free?

You can use parts of it for free. With Microsoft 365 for the web, you’ll be able to access simpler versions of Word, PowerPoint and Excel. But, if you want all the extra bells and whistles, you’ll need to shell out for the entire Microsoft 365 package.

Want to find out even more about Microsoft 365? Here’s why you need Microsoft 365 on a Windows laptop. Oh, and definitely have a read of what is Microsoft Copilot too. It’s their brand-new AI – and it’s been built into Microsoft 365 to make you even more productive.

If you’re ready to take the plunge, we’ve got every kind of Microsoft 365 download for you to check out right here.

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