What HIOD IT is doing to keep your business secure
From October 2025, Microsoft is enforcing a range of new security and compliance measures across Microsoft 365. These changes are designed to improve protection against cyber threats and ensure organisations meet modern compliance requirements.
HIOD IT will be rolling these changes out across all managed clients. Some will happen quietly in the background, while others may affect the way your staff log in, access files, or collaborate.
1. Why These Changes Are Important
Cyberattacks are becoming more sophisticated, and outdated security practices are no longer effective. Microsoft is retiring legacy methods and requiring stronger protections. These updates will:
– Strengthen login security and prevent stolen credentials being misused.
– Reduce risk from phishing emails, malicious macros, and ransomware.
– Ensure business data stays in approved, secure platforms.
– Keep your organisation aligned with Microsoft’s compliance standards.
2. What to Expect
We’ve grouped the changes by impact level so you can clearly see what will affect staff and what will run silently in the background.
3. What You Need to Do
Your HIOD IT Account Manager will be in touch soon to walk you through the specific requirements for your environment. These changes are mandatory, but we’ll guide you through the process and handle most of the heavy lifting.
If you’d like to get ahead, you can book a meeting now with your Account Manager using the link below.
Impact-Based Breakdown
High Impact (Requires Action by Staff / IT Updates)
Multi-Factor Authentication:
Staff will now need to approve logins on their phone or via an authenticator app. This extra step is the #1 way to stop stolen passwords from being used.
Block Legacy Authentication:
Older apps and methods (like basic authentication in Outlook 2010/2013) will stop working. Only modern, secure login methods will be allowed.
Passwordless Authentication:
Where possible, staff can log in using Microsoft Authenticator without needing to type their password. This makes logins both faster and more secure.
Self-Service Password Reset:
Staff will need to register backup details (e.g. mobile number, alternate email). If they forget their password, they’ll be able to reset it themselves instead of waiting for IT.
Device Compliance Policies:
Devices must meet a baseline standard (patched, encrypted, protected). Non-compliant or outdated devices may lose access until updated.
Attack Surface Reduction Policies:
Office macros and known malicious scripts will be blocked automatically. This reduces the risk of ransomware and phishing attacks.
Microsoft Defender Firewall:
The firewall will be enabled and locked down. Some traffic may need to be specifically approved, but it significantly reduces attack entry points.
Moderate Impact (May Change Staff Experience)
Disable Anonymous Teams Access
External meeting attendees will need to sign in. Anonymous “join without login” access will be disabled to prevent misuse.
Disable Third-Party Storage in Teams
Only Microsoft-approved storage (OneDrive/SharePoint) will be available in Teams. Dropbox, Google Drive, etc. will be blocked to keep company data in one secure location.
Enable External Chat & Guest Access
Staff will still be able to collaborate with external partners, but now through secure guest access that keeps data protected.
Transcription & Recording Settings
Teams meetings can be recorded and transcribed for clarity. Privacy settings will be managed centrally to ensure compliance.
Low / No Impact (Background or Admin-Level Changes)
Admin & System Policies
Changes like MFA for admin accounts, Intune device policies, secure OneDrive defaults, audit log monitoring, and Defender onboarding will be applied in the background. Staff won’t notice these, but they strengthen overall protection.
– Require MFA for admins
– Create emergency access accounts (Break Glass)
– Configure Microsoft Entra for joining devices
– Enable Intune Endpoint Analytics
– Provision Microsoft Defender
– Automatically onboard devices to Defender
– Configure OneDrive policy
– Configure Defender Antivirus
– Configure Windows Feature Update policy
– Enable Standard protection profile (EOP/MDO)
– Configure SPF, DKIM, DMARC
– Enable Unified Audit Logs
– Enable Safe Attachments
– Onboard to Microsoft 365 Apps inventory
– Enable Cloud Update for Microsoft 365 Apps
– Configure Microsoft Edge profile
FAQs
Q: Will this mean more logins for my staff?
A: Yes, in some cases. MFA adds an extra step, but it’s a simple “approve” tap on their phone. It’s the best way to protect against stolen passwords.
Q: What if a staff member forgets their password?
A: With Self-Service Password Reset, they can securely reset it themselves—no waiting on IT.
Q: Will older apps still work?
A: Apps that rely on outdated authentication (like old versions of Outlook) may stop working. We recommend upgrading to supported versions.
Q: Does this affect how we collaborate with external partners?
A: No, collaboration will still be possible—just more secure. Guests will need proper authentication instead of anonymous links.
Q: Do we need to budget for upgrades?
A: In some cases, yes—particularly if your business still relies on outdated apps or devices. HIOD IT will help you identify what needs replacing.
👉 HIOD IT will guide your business through these changes. If you have concerns about staff training, device readiness, or app compatibility, please reach out to us early so we can plan together.
Contact HIOD IT for Assistance
Testimonials
HIOD IT has been an integral part of forming and executing our IT strategy. Through their expertise, advice, and knowledge of the industry and products, we have been able to save tens of thousands of dollars from our yearly budget by making our operations more efficient and finding deals specifically tailored to NFPs.
Their service has always been prompt, reliable, and professional, resolving all issues as they have arisen. On many occasions, they have gone above and beyond the contract to provide a level of service we did not expect.
Dan and his team have treated our business like their own and have always been a pleasure to deal with. I have no hesitation in recommending HIOD IT to you and cannot speak highly enough of what they have done for us
Alex Attard | General Manager, Faith Christian ChurchThe team at HIOD IT has proven to be flexible and adaptable in managing our IT systems and resource needs at Neuma Church as we grow and expand.
We value their willingness to understand our long-term goals and work alongside us to develop processes for the future.
The HIOD team has sought to cultivate a healthy business relationship with us and has consistently made the effort to engage with each of our staff members to provide personalised support.
We are happy to recommend their services
Neuma ChurchWe’ve used HIOD IT since April 2014, and have been continually impressed with their expertise and responsiveness. They have provided a wide range of services to us, including internet optimisation, server upgrades, cloud transition, and monthly systems monitoring.
We highly recommend their services.
Kien Bui, ACCI Missions & Relief HIOD IT has been managing Casey City Church’s IT assets for about 5 years. As such, I would have no hesitation to endorse them to any other Church or organisation that also has IT needs. HIOD IT oversees desktop support, Server management, our PBX Phone systems, any purchasing of technology assets and also installations of further upgrades. HIOD IT has a wonderful team to manage our IT network, ensuring it is operational 24/7”.
Shami, Casey City ChurchWe love the whole team at HIOD IT. Whether it is answering questions or rolling out new systems they never miss a beat. Always willing and able to find a solution that is right for us. Couldn’t recommend more!
Nathan McMillan, Faith Christian ChurchCost effective way of keeping your IT up and running smoothly. Give these guys a go!!
Gene Alessi, Core PrinciplesBRILLIANT, PATIENT, UNDERSTANDING, INNOVATIVE, EXPERIENCED AND EXTREMELY KNOWLEDGEABLE – The team and HIOD IT really do care about the operation and efficiencies of your business. They aren’t out to make money and do everything they can to find IT solutions that fit your business and budget. We honestly (and literally!) could not do what we do without them. Thank you team – you are amazing and we are beyond grateful for you!
Renee, Give. Lux GiftaryHIOD IT has been our IT provider for many years and has demonstrated responsiveness and expertise across many disciplines. They have helped to develop solutions for us for changing email servers, consolidating websites, upgrading server hardware and monitoring network health. I am confident that HIOD IT will continue its excellent performance for many years to come.
Dan at HIOD IT was really easy to deal with, helping us out with many issues.
He spoke our lingo, which made it easy for us to understand what was going on and what needed to happen moving forward.
I would recommend Dan and the team at HIOD IT to anyone for great support!
We have been a client of HIOD IT for over 5 years and have relied on HIOD IT for both recommending, installing, and supporting the entire backbone of our IT systems/infrastructure in our Head Office.
During times of critical need, the team at HIOD IT have been helpful, responsive, professional, and dedicated. I would like to personally thank Dan, our account manager at HIOD IT for the exceptional support he has provided our business and for going above and beyond.
When the COVID-19 pandemic took hold in early 2020, we approached them for additional support. During this time of need, they have aided with the day-to-day support and care of our 80+ store network, while continuing to support and manage our IT backbone.
With a dedicated account manager, I am certain the team at HIOD IT will be able to provide your business with a customised support package as they have done for Wittner.
James C | IT Manager | WittnerHIOD IT has been supporting us for the past 3 years and look after our entire server infrastructure both here in Australia, as well as our New Zealand offices. They have been a very competent unit and have exceeded my expectations every single time. They have proven to be a good alliance and I recommend them without any hesitation.
Aun Rizvi, AHI Carrier | TotalineHIOD IT have provided fantastic customer services to our business for many years now. They understand our unique business structure (church/not for profit) and are accommodating to that. The team also look after us and provide us with great value for money in addition to updating and adapting our IT solutions as our business continues to grow. Would highly recommend HIOD IT for your IT and telecommunications needs.
Linita Chongue McMillan | Faith Christian ChurchHIOD IT is VERY HIGH on everything. Products, quality, people, service, advice and commitment.
Rajesh SethiThe team at HIOD have been looking after our I.T requirements for about 3 years. They manage our network, PC’s and server maintenance. They are responsive and always willing to assist. As a Director of Big Post Pty Ltd I am happy to recommend their services.
Daniel Shanz | Big PostDan and the team at HIOD IT provide a number of services including managing our corporate email and website. We are happy to recommend their services.
Brett Mansfield | Buyers Choice Home Loan Advisory ServicesSince making the decision to move our IT network & services across to HIOD IT back in October 2013, we haven’t looked back. Over this period, they have consistently met and/or exceeded our expectations in terms of response, service delivery and expertise, and have done so at very reasonable rates.
We have come to increasingly rely on HIOD’s services since initially engaging them, and have recently transferred all of our website hosting and development across them as well. I have no hesitation in recommending Dan and his team as IT service providers.
HIOD Telecommunications are a top-shelf company to work with. They have a high level of customer service and are extremely prompt in getting back to you. The highly knowledgeable team makes it even easier to explain your needs without confusion.
I highly recommend their services for a job of any size.