New Whitepaper on the Security Features of Microsoft Online ...
Security is critical to our customers: Online services from Microsoft were built from the ground-up to be more secure by design, secure by default, and secure in operation; validated by Cybertrust Certification and SAS 70 Type II attestation.
The benefits of software-plus-services (SPS) are often weighed against perceived costs in terms of security risks, and the potential for interrupted access to mission-critical business data.
Microsoft brings world-class experience in software design, development, deployment, and operations to its Microsoft Online Services offering, enabling businesses to gain considerable cost advantages while helping to avoid many of the security risks associated with Web-based software services.
Increased security in Microsoft Online services is derived from:
• Simplified automated access using single sign-on.
• Reduced user intervention for security-related tasks.
• Automated software and service updates.
• Comprehensive implementation of leading-edge, industry-standard network security and encryption protocols.
• Mature applications designed, built, tested, and deployed according to Microsoft- established software development disciplines.
• Field-proven service hosting platforms.
• Best practices for data center design and operations.
Microsoft Online services are designed to provide a software-plus-services environment featuring enhanced security and continuous access to applications and data. Increased security at each stage of the online transaction – user and administrator access, network connectivity, service hosting platform and physical datacenter -- helps you gain the established benefits of online services while minimizing your risk.
Source: Security Features in Microsoft Online