Understanding Microsoft 365 Copilot: Pricing and Functionality
Microsoft 365 Copilot, available for enterprise customers at a subscription cost of $30 per user per month, serves as an add-on to the existing Microsoft 365 suite. While the price may seem steep, it offers substantial benefits for organizations seeking to integrate AI capabilities into their workflows. Notably, its ability to access the web raises some concerns among IT administrators, prompting Microsoft to address these issues proactively.
Insights from Microsoft on Web Search Capabilities
In a detailed blog post, Microsoft elucidated how Copilot operates, including the measures it has in place to ensure security and transparency. The function of web search is highlighted as vital for providing real-time data. However, should IT admins choose to disable this functionality, Copilot will revert to using only historical training data, which can be outdated and less reliable.
How Web Search Functions Within Copilot
For IT administrators considering the enabling of web search, a clearer understanding of its operational mechanics is essential. Upon receiving a query from a user, Copilot safeguards user privacy by processing the request within the Microsoft 365 service boundary. The AI assesses the need for a web search based on keywords and constructs a query for Bing, ensuring no user-related metadata is sent in the process. The results are then securely processed and blended with enterprise-approved content before being presented back to the user. Users have the capability to view the citations and keywords utilized, fostering transparency.
Robust Protection Mechanisms in Place
There are four key layers of protection regarding web search within Microsoft 365 Copilot:
- Admin Controls: IT admins can regulate when and how web search is utilized, with traceable log access available for prompts, queries, and results through Microsoft Purview eDiscovery.
- User Discretion: Users can opt to disable web grounding, providing an additional layer of control.
- Data Privacy: Copilot ensures that complete prompts are never sent to Bing; user metadata is removed, and responses are stored securely.
- Contractual Obligations: Microsoft’s contracts prevent the use of query data for AI training, Bing enhancement, or user profiling for advertisements.
Empowering Enterprise Customers for Optimal Usage
Microsoft strives to reassure enterprises about their control over the data that flows through Copilot. Organizations should focus on training their users on best practices regarding transparency and control, enabling necessary audits, and documenting both permitted and prohibited scenarios. Additionally, employing Data Loss Prevention (DLP) measures for Copilot files is recommended to secure sensitive information. Furthermore, Microsoft encourages the use of personal Copilot licenses in workplace settings to enhance productivity and collaboration.
In summary, while it is vital for IT leaders to weigh the implications of enabling web search in Microsoft 365 Copilot, the benefits, coupled with robust control measures, present compelling reasons to consider its integration into their systems.
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