In episode 31, Chuck and Brian walk us through the recent attack on Microsoft Exchange servers – a hack affecting on-premise Exchange servers – and why you’re safer in the cloud. Understanding attacks like the Microsoft Exchange hack is crucial for any business relying on on-premise servers.
Hundreds of thousands of on-premise Exchange servers were affected by the recent hack, including Microsoft Exchange servers – and even with the patch available, there are still almost a hundred thousand servers left vulnerable to hacks.
Effects On-Premise Exchange Only
Versions 2013, 2016, and 2019 (and would also affect anything earlier, as those are no longer under support) were impacted by the attack, reminiscent of the notorious Microsoft Exchange hack.
On-Premise Servers vs. Microsoft 365 (3:48)
An on-premise server requires ongoing support and maintenance that comes at a cost. You’ll also need a good patch policy in place, especially in the wake of the Exchange hack targeting Microsoft systems.
With Microsoft 365, your monthly subscription includes automatic updates that Microsoft handles, taking a huge responsibility off of your plate.
Microsoft 365 also opens up more security options (5:29):
- ATP
- Encryption
- Compliance
- Legal Hold
Speed (6:20)
There may be a small difference in the time it takes for you to see an email come through from your on-premise solution vs. your Microsoft 365. We’ve helped move hundreds of companies over to Microsoft 365, and while the adjustment usually goes unnoticed, here’s why it happens – and it’s worth the delay even amid vulnerabilities like the Exchange server hack.
Cost (10:07)
You should always evaluate your costs. It’s important to understand what the cost means when you’re comparing these two, especially when dealing with potential hacks such as the Microsoft Exchange incident.
On-premise servers include mostly upfront costs. Once you’ve addressed the costs, the idea is that you don’t have them anymore. That’s only partially true. With Microsoft 365, it’s a monthly cost, and all the functionality and features that you need are included.
OneDrive with Microsoft 365 (16:50)
Every user gets a dedicated 1TB of OneDrive space. It acts as a workstation backup, which brings huge benefits to your business in situations like dealing with potential server hacks.
Automation Benefits with Microsoft 365 (19:02)
The Winner? (20:50)
It’s a no-brainer.
If you have any questions on Microsoft 365 services, or the cloud, or are interested in more information, contact us!
Check out some of our past TechTalk Detroit episodes:
1- TechTalk Detroit EP 30: Microsoft 365 Add-Ons You Should Be Using
2- TechTalk Detroit EP 28: IT Budgeting and Planning
3- TechTalk Detroit EP 27: Is it Time to Switch Your Managed IT Service Provider?
4- TechTalk Detroit EP 26: Employee Retention – How to Keep Employees Engaged and Satisfied Within the Field of Tech

Charles Lobert, has been in the Detroit Metro Area’s IT industry for over two decades & with VCS since ’04. Throughout the years, Lobert has held nearly every position at VCS & is responsible for several major organizational shifts within VCS.