Help CenterOneDrive is Microsoft’s cloud-based storage service that allows users to store, share, and sync files across multiple devices. It is a core component of the Microsoft 365 suite and is often used alongside other services like SharePoint and Teams. When choosing a OneDrive plan, you’ll encounter two main options: OneDrive for Business Plan 1 and OneDrive for Business Plan 2.
In this article, we'll explore the key differences between OneDrive Plan 1 and OneDrive Plan 2, helping you decide which plan is better suited for your organization’s needs.
What is OneDrive for Business?
OneDrive for Business is a cloud storage service designed for businesses, enabling users to store files, collaborate, and share content securely. It integrates seamlessly with the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, allowing users to access and share files from anywhere, on any device.
Key Differences Between OneDrive Plan 1 and Plan 2
1. Storage Limits
- Plan 1: Offers 1 TB of storage per user. This is typically sufficient for small to medium-sized businesses where each user needs a reasonable amount of cloud storage.
- Plan 2: Starts with 1 TB per user, but can be expanded to unlimited storage. For users who require more than 1 TB, admins can request additional storage through Microsoft at no extra cost, which makes Plan 2 ideal for larger organizations or those that deal with high volumes of data.
2. File Restore and Recovery
- Plan 1: Includes the basic file recovery features, allowing users to recover deleted files from the recycle bin for up to 93 days (default setting).
- Plan 2: Offers advanced file restore features, including Files Restore for OneDrive. This allows users to recover their entire OneDrive to a previous point in time within the last 30 days, which is useful for mitigating issues like mass file deletion, ransomware attacks, or accidental corruption.
3. Data Loss Prevention (DLP)
- Plan 1: Does not include built-in Data Loss Prevention (DLP) capabilities. While it provides essential access controls and sharing permissions, it lacks the advanced data protection features.
- Plan 2: Includes Data Loss Prevention (DLP), allowing organizations to create policies to identify, monitor, and protect sensitive information (like credit card numbers or social security numbers) stored in OneDrive. This is a crucial feature for industries that need to comply with regulations such as GDPR, HIPAA, or other data privacy laws.
4. Security and Compliance Features
- Plan 1: Provides essential security features like encryption for data in transit and at rest, and basic compliance capabilities, such as access control and sharing permissions.
- Plan 2: Includes Advanced Security Management and Advanced Compliance Capabilities. These features allow organizations to conduct In-Place Holds, eDiscovery, and apply Legal Holds on files. These advanced tools make Plan 2 a better fit for industries that are heavily regulated or need to comply with complex legal and compliance requirements.
5. Information Governance
- Plan 1: Offers basic versioning, allowing users to track changes and revert to earlier versions of files.
- Plan 2: Takes it a step further with Advanced Information Governance features. Plan 2 provides tools to classify, retain, and delete information based on governance policies, which helps organizations manage the lifecycle of their data effectively.
6. Support for Hybrid Scenarios
- Plan 1: Ideal for organizations using OneDrive as a standalone cloud solution.
- Plan 2: Supports hybrid scenarios, allowing organizations with an on-premises infrastructure to integrate their environment with cloud-based OneDrive for Business. This is beneficial for companies transitioning to the cloud but still maintaining some on-premises resources.
7. Search and Discovery
- Plan 1: Includes basic search capabilities that allow users to search for files and folders stored within OneDrive.
- Plan 2: Offers enhanced search capabilities with Content Search and eDiscovery. These features allow legal teams and administrators to search for specific content across OneDrive for Business and other services like SharePoint and Exchange.
OneDrive Plan 1 vs. Plan 2: A Quick Summary
Which Plan is Right for You?
Choosing between OneDrive Plan 1 and Plan 2 depends on the specific needs of your organization:
- Small to Medium-Sized Businesses: OneDrive Plan 1 is sufficient for organizations that require cloud storage and basic collaboration features. With 1 TB of storage per user and file sharing capabilities, it’s an affordable option for teams that don’t need advanced security or compliance features.
- Enterprises and Regulated Industries: OneDrive Plan 2 is ideal for larger organizations or those in regulated industries that need advanced compliance, security, and data protection features. The ability to expand storage to unlimited amounts, combined with advanced recovery tools and Data Loss Prevention, makes Plan 2 the better choice for companies that handle large volumes of sensitive data or require stricter governance controls.
Conclusion
Both OneDrive Plan 1 and Plan 2 offer powerful cloud storage solutions, but they cater to different needs. Plan 1 is a cost-effective option for businesses looking for essential cloud storage and collaboration features, while Plan 2 provides more advanced data protection, compliance, and security features that larger enterprises or highly regulated industries may require.
By understanding the key differences between OneDrive Plan 1 and Plan 2, you can select the plan that best meets your organization’s needs for cloud storage, collaboration, and compliance.