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Episodes
Regular Microsoft Cloud information featuring Azure and Office365 with Microsoft MVP Robert Crane - A mix of current Microsoft cloud news, analysis and industry expert chat.
Episodes
Jan 26, 2026
Jan 26, 2026
59 min
I am joined by Andrew and Tim from Sherpatech to discuss updates and new challenges in the insurance market. If you missed last year's episode you'll find it here Episode 338 - Ensure to Insure. We discuss what impact AI is likely to have and how the insurance market is shaping up for 2026. I also have a few interesting updates and information from the Microsoft cloud for this first episode of 2026. So listen along and enjoy!
Resources
Explore the tools, communities, and content mentioned in this episode:
- CIAOPS Need to Know Podcast: https://ciaops.podbean.com/
- CIAOPS Blog: https://blog.ciaops.com/
- CIAOPS Labs: https://blog.ciaopslabs.com/
- CIAOPS Brief: https://blog.ciaops.com/tag/cia-brief/
- Join the Teams Shared Channel: https://blog.ciaops.com/2022/07/29/join-my-teams-shared-channel/
- CIAOPS Merch Store: https://my-store-c5d877-2.creator-spring.com/
- CIAOPS Publications: https://directorcia.gumroad.com
- Become a Patron: https://www.ciaopspatron.com/
- Direct Support: https://ko-fi.com/ciaops
- Get Your M365 Questions Answered: https://blog.ciaops.com/2025/06/11/get-your-m365-questions-answered-via-email-2/
- Test Your Microsoft 365 Speed: https://blog.ciaops.com/2025/07/21/test-your-microsoft-365-speed-in-seconds-for-free/
- CIAOPS Email list - https://bit.ly/cia-email
Show Notes
Dec 17, 2025
Dec 17, 2025
37 min
Welcome to another podcast episode where I aim to bring you up to date with the latest in the Microsoft Cloud as well as share my knowledge and insights. In this episode I dig into how you need to focus and avoid distractions as well as building your knowledge with products and automations you already have.
Resources
Explore the tools, communities, and content mentioned in this episode:
- CIAOPS Need to Know Podcast: https://ciaops.podbean.com/
- CIAOPS Blog: https://blog.ciaops.com/
- CIAOPS Labs: https://blog.ciaopslabs.com/
- CIAOPS Brief: https://blog.ciaops.com/tag/cia-brief/
- Join the Teams Shared Channel: https://blog.ciaops.com/2022/07/29/join-my-teams-shared-channel/
- CIAOPS Merch Store: https://my-store-c5d877-2.creator-spring.com/
- Become a Patron: https://www.ciaopspatron.com/
- Direct Support: https://ko-fi.com/ciaops
- Get Your M365 Questions Answered: https://blog.ciaops.com/2025/06/11/get-your-m365-questions-answered-via-email-2/
- Test Your Microsoft 365 Speed: https://blog.ciaops.com/2025/07/21/test-your-microsoft-365-speed-in-seconds-for-free/
- CIAOPS Email list - https://bit.ly/cia-email
Announcements
-
Flight School: Mastering Copilot for IT Pros
A new training resource for IT professionals to maximize Copilot capabilities.
https://blog.ciaops.com/2025/11/14/flight-school-mastering-copilot-for-it-pros/
-
ACSC Essential Eight Maturity Level 3
Guidance on implementing security best practices with Microsoft 365 Business Premium.
https://blog.ciaops.com/2025/12/08/implementing-acsc-essential-eight-maturity-level-3-with-microsoft-365-business-premium-publication/
Show Notes
Dec 1, 2025
Dec 1, 2025
49 min
I am joined once again by Phil Meyer to review the most important and relevant announcements from Microsoft Ignite. Plenty around AI but also a few other gems you may have overlooked, so sit back and listen in as we focus on what you should be paying attention to.
Resources
Explore the tools, communities, and content mentioned in this episode:
- CIAOPS Need to Know Podcast: https://ciaops.podbean.com/
- CIAOPS Blog: https://blog.ciaops.com/
- CIAOPS Labs: https://blog.ciaopslabs.com/
- CIAOPS Brief: https://blog.ciaops.com/tag/cia-brief/
- Join the Teams Shared Channel: https://blog.ciaops.com/2022/07/29/join-my-teams-shared-channel/
- CIAOPS Merch Store: https://my-store-c5d877-2.creator-spring.com/
- Become a Patron: https://www.ciaopspatron.com/
- Direct Support: https://ko-fi.com/ciaops
- Get Your M365 Questions Answered: https://blog.ciaops.com/2025/06/11/get-your-m365-questions-answered-via-email-2/
- Test Your Microsoft 365 Speed: https://blog.ciaops.com/2025/07/21/test-your-microsoft-365-speed-in-seconds-for-free/
- CIAOPS Email list - https://bit.ly/cia-email
Announcements
Flight School: Mastering Copilot for IT Pros – https://blog.ciaops.com/2025/11/14/flight-school-mastering-copilot-for-it-pros/
CIAOPS Academy deprecation notification – https://blog.ciaops.com/2025/11/10/ciaops-academy-deprecation-notification/
Show Notes
Microsoft 365 powered by Work IQ: Built to Support How You Work –
Synced Passkeys in Microsoft Entra for Phishing-resistant MFA –
Ignite’25 Spotlight: Announcing Microsoft Baseline security mode –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft_365blog/ignite%E2%80%9925-spotlight-announcing-m…
Introducing Microsoft 365 Copilot Business: Empowering Small and Medium Businesses with AI –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft365copilotblog/introducing-microsoft-365-copilot-…
Future-Proofing Your Channel Business: Strategies for Asia Partners - Future-Proofing Your Channel Business: Strategies for Asia Partners | PBRK440 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvwZYUbVW08
Question - https://youtu.be/xvwZYUbVW08?t=2604
Nov 17, 2025
Nov 17, 2025
39 min
In this episode of the Need to Know Podcast, we explore the evolving landscape of learning in the Microsoft Cloud ecosystem, with a spotlight on the SMB market. From the latest in Microsoft 365 Copilot innovations to critical cybersecurity updates and the end of CIAOPS Academy, this episode delivers essential insights for IT professionals and business leaders navigating the modern digital workplace.
Resources
Explore the tools, communities, and content mentioned in this episode:
- CIAOPS Need to Know Podcast: https://ciaops.podbean.com/
- CIAOPS Blog: https://blog.ciaops.com/
- CIAOPS Labs: https://blog.ciaopslabs.com/
- CIAOPS Brief: https://blog.ciaops.com/tag/cia-brief/
- Join the Teams Shared Channel: https://blog.ciaops.com/2022/07/29/join-my-teams-shared-channel/
- CIAOPS Merch Store: https://my-store-c5d877-2.creator-spring.com/
- Become a Patron: https://www.ciaopspatron.com/
- Direct Support: https://ko-fi.com/ciaops
- Get Your M365 Questions Answered: https://blog.ciaops.com/2025/06/11/get-your-m365-questions-answered-via-email-2/
- Test Your Microsoft 365 Speed: https://blog.ciaops.com/2025/07/21/test-your-microsoft-365-speed-in-seconds-for-free/
- CIAOPS Email list - https://bit.ly/cia-email
Announcements
Flight School: Mastering Copilot for IT Pros – https://blog.ciaops.com/2025/11/14/flight-school-mastering-copilot-for-it-pros/
Disabling Office Macros via ASR to Meet Essential Eight Requirements – https://blog.ciaops.com/2025/11/13/disabling-office-macros-via-asr-to-meet-essential-eight-requirements/
ASD OWA settings check script – https://blog.ciaops.com/2025/11/13/asd-owa-settings-check-script/
ASD Mailflow settings check script – https://blog.ciaops.com/2025/11/12/asd-mailflow-settings-check-sript/
CIAOPS Academy deprecation notification – https://blog.ciaops.com/2025/11/10/ciaops-academy-deprecation-notification/
Show Notes
The next chapter of the Microsoft–OpenAI partnership –
Automate with Workflows Agent in Microsoft 365 Copilot (Frontier) –
Introducing Researcher with Computer Use in Microsoft 365 Copilot –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft365copilotblog/introducing-researcher-with-comput…
Build apps in minutes with App Builder agent in Microsoft 365 Copilot (Frontier) –
Microsoft 365 Copilot now enables you to build apps and workflows –
Introducing Teams Mode for Microsoft 365 Copilot –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft365copilotblog/introducing-teams-mode-for-microso…
Introducing MAI-Image-1, debuting in the top 10 on LMArena –
Building human-centric security skills for AI –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoftlearnblog/building-human-centric-security-skills-…
GenAI vs Cyber Threats: Why GenAI Powered Unified SecOps Wins –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft-security-blog/genai-vs-cyber-threats-why-genai-p…
What’s new in Microsoft 365 Copilot | October 2025 –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/Microsoft365CopilotBlog/what%E2%80%99s-new-in-microsoft-36…
The 5 generative AI security threats you need to know about detailed in new e-book –
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2025/10/30/the-5-generative-ai-security-threats-you-n…
SharePoint Showcase highlights: Smarter Copilot responses using metadata with the Knowledge Agent –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft365insiderblog/sharepoint-showcase-highlights-sma…
Work smarter with Copilot in the People, Files, and Calendar apps –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft365insiderblog/work-smarter-with-copilot-in-the-p…
The weakest link: Stolen staff passwords now the biggest cyber threat to workplaces –
https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/the-weakest-link-stolen-staff-passwords-now-the-biggest-cyb…
Cyber security priorities for boards of directors 2025-26 –
https://www.cyber.gov.au/business-government/protecting-business-leaders/cyber-security-for-busines…
Secure external attachments with Purview encryption –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/azurepurviewblog/secure-external-attachments-with-purview-…
What’s New in Microsoft Intune: October 2025 –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoftintuneblog/what%E2%80%99s-new-in-microsoft-intune…
Custom detections are now the unified experience for creating detections in Microsoft Defender –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoftthreatprotectionblog/custom-detections-are-now-th…
10 ways Microsoft Intune supports a smooth upgrade to Windows 11 –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoftintuneblog/10-ways-microsoft-intune-supports-a-sm…
How Windows 11 and AI are transforming the future of work –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/windows-itpro-blog/how-windows-11-and-ai-are-transforming-…
Security Copilot Agents: The New Era of AI, Driven Cyber Defense –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft-security-blog/security-copilot-agents-the-new-er…
6 truths about migrating Microsoft Sentinel to the Defender portal –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoftsentinelblog/6-truths-about-migrating-microsoft-s…
Microsoft named a Leader in the 2025 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for SIEM –
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2025/10/16/microsoft-named-a-leader-in-the-2025-gartn…
Extortion and ransomware drive over half of cyberattacks –
Microsoft 365 Insider Round-Up: October 2025 –
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/microsoft-365-insider-round-up-october-2025-microsoft-365-insider-ub…
Making every Windows 11 PC an AI PC –
Microsoft raises the bar: A smarter way to measure AI for cybersecurity –
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2025/10/14/microsoft-raises-the-bar-a-smarter-way-to-…
Building a lasting security culture at Microsoft –
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2025/10/13/building-a-lasting-security-culture-at-mic…
Satya – My annual letter: Thinking in decades, executing in quarters –
Oct 7, 2025
Oct 7, 2025
1hr 9 min
In Episode 354 of the CIAOPS "Need to Know" podcast, host Robert Crane sits down with Philip Meyer, a seasoned Microsoft veteran, to explore the seismic shifts in the IT landscape driven by artificial intelligence. From reflections on decades of industry evolution to practical advice for SMBs and partners, this episode delivers a rich blend of insights, personal stories, and actionable strategies. Topics include AI's impact on employment, cybersecurity challenges, digital labor, and the future of partner enablement.
Resources
Explore the tools, communities, and content mentioned in this episode:
- CIAOPS Need to Know Podcast: https://ciaops.podbean.com/
- CIAOPS Blog: https://blog.ciaops.com/
- CIAOPS Labs: https://blog.ciaopslabs.com/
- CIAOPS Brief: https://blog.ciaops.com/tag/cia-brief/
- Join the Teams Shared Channel: https://blog.ciaops.com/2022/07/29/join-my-teams-shared-channel/
- CIAOPS Merch Store: https://my-store-c5d877-2.creator-spring.com/
- Become a Patron: https://www.ciaopspatron.com/
- Direct Support: https://ko-fi.com/ciaops
- Get Your M365 Questions Answered: https://blog.ciaops.com/2025/06/11/get-your-m365-questions-answered-via-email-2/
- Test Your Microsoft 365 Speed: https://blog.ciaops.com/2025/07/21/test-your-microsoft-365-speed-in-seconds-for-free/
Show Notes
Microsoft named a Leader in the IDC MarketScape for XDR -
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2025/10/02/microsoft-named-a-leader-in-the-idc-market…
Retail at risk: How one alert uncovered a persistent cyberthreat -
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2025/09/24/retail-at-risk-how-one-alert-uncovered-a-p…
Fluid forms, vibrant colors -
What’s new in Microsoft 365 Copilot | September 2025 -
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/Microsoft365CopilotBlog/what%E2%80%99s-new-in-microsoft-36…
An IT pro’s guide to Windows 11, version 25H2 -
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/windows-itpro-blog/an-it-pro%E2%80%99s-guide-to-windows-11…
Announcing Microsoft Sentinel Model Context Protocol (MCP) server – Public Preview -
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft-security-blog/announcing-microsoft-sentinel-mode…
Microsoft Sentinel data lake is now generally available -
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft-security-blog/microsoft-sentinel-data-lake-is-no…
Empowering defenders in the era of agentic AI with Microsoft Sentinel -
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2025/09/30/empowering-defenders-in-the-era-of-agentic…
Microsoft 365 Backup: Protect your business with data recovery -
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft_365_backup_blog/microsoft-365-backup-protect-you…
Office Agent – “Taste driven” multi-agent system for Microsoft 365 Copilot -
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft365copilotblog/office-agent-%E2%80%93-%E2%80%9Cta…
Vibe working: Introducing Agent Mode and Office Agent in Microsoft 365 Copilot -
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2025/09/29/vibe-working-introducing-agent-mode-a…
Building Agent Mode in Excel -
Microsoft Sentinel and Defender: ITSM Integrations Explained –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoftsentinelblog/microsoft-sentinel-and-defender-itsm…
AI vs. AI: Detecting an AI-obfuscated phishing campaign –
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2025/09/24/ai-vs-ai-detecting-an-ai-obfuscated-phishi…
Expanding model choice in Microsoft 365 Copilot –
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2025/09/24/expanding-model-choice-in-microsoft-3…
Introducing Channel Agent in Teams –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/Microsoft365InsiderBlog/introducing-channel-agent-in-teams…
SharePoint Showcase highlights: Get the most out of SharePoint agents –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft365insiderblog/sharepoint-showcase-highlights-get…
New collaborative agents in Microsoft 365 Copilot –
Introducing Knowledge Agent in SharePoint –
AI and Microsoft Teams: A New Era of Collaboration –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoftteamsblog/ai-and-microsoft-teams-a-new-era-of-col…
Microsoft 365 Insider Round-Up: September 2025 –
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/microsoft-365-insider-round-up-september-2025-microsoft-365-insider-…
Addressing multi-tenant management challenges for MSPs with Microsoft Intune and partner innovations –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoftintuneblog/addressing-multi-tenant-management-cha…
Defending against evolving identity attack techniques –
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2025/05/29/defending-against-evolving-identity-attack…
Copilot Chat comes to the Microsoft 365 apps –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft365copilotblog/copilot-chat-comes-to-the-microsof…
Get ready now: One month until Office 2016/2019 end of support –
Sep 8, 2025
Sep 8, 2025
19 min
In this episode I talk about a recent series of blog posts I wrote about some analysis I did on various AI services available today as well as my thoughts on these. I also cover off the latest news and information in the Microsoft Cloud for you. Listen along.
Resources
CIAOPS Need to Know podcast - CIAOPS - Need to Know podcasts | CIAOPS
Join my Teams shared channel - Join my Teams Shared Channel – CIAOPS
CIAOPS Merch store - CIAOPS
Become a CIAOPS Patron - CIAOPS Patron
CIAOPS Blog - CIAOPS – Information about SharePoint, Microsoft 365, Azure, Mobility and Productivity from the Computer Information Agency
CIAOPS Brief - CIA Brief – CIAOPS
Support CIAOPS - https://ko-fi.com/ciaops
Welcome to the Microsoft Incident Response Ninja Hub –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoftsecurityexperts/welcome-to-the-microsoft-incident…
Listen to an audio recap of your meetings in Teams –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/Microsoft365InsiderBlog/listen-to-an-audio-recap-of-your-m…
Introducing Surveys Agent, your personal survey expert –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft365insiderblog/introducing-surveys-agent-your-per…
What’s New in AI for Security from Microsoft Entra? –
https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft-entra-blog/what%E2%80%99s-new-in-ai-for-security…
Microsoft ranked number one in modern endpoint security market share third year in a row –
Securing and governing the rise of autonomous agents –
How systems integrators are scaling innovation with Microsoft 365 Copilot and agents –
Microsoft deployment blueprint – Address oversharing concerns for your M365 Copilot deployment –
Staying Ahead of Compliance: Keep Up with Key Insights from our Quarterly Compliance Update –
Microsoft Security Copilot in Intune deep dive – Part 1: Features available in public preview –
What’s New in Microsoft Intune: August 2025 –
OneNote for Windows 10 support is ending –
Think before you Click(Fix): Analyzing the ClickFix social engineering technique –
Deep Dive: DLP Incidents, Alerts & Events – Part 1 –
Deep Dive: DLP Incidents, Alerts & Events – Part 2 –
New SKUs available for M365 Business premium - https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft-security-blog/deep-dive-dlp-incidents-alerts–events—part-2/4443700
Testing the differences between AI services – CIAOPS - https://blog.ciaops.com/2025/09/06/testing-the-differences-between-ai-services/
An analysis of how AI services vary – CIAOPS - https://blog.ciaops.com/2025/09/07/an-analysis-of-how-ai-service-vary/
Comparison of AI-Generated Articles – CIAOPS - https://blog.ciaops.com/2025/09/08/comparison-of-ai-generated-articles/
Aug 20, 2025
Aug 20, 2025
26 min
In this episode of the CIAOPS "Need to Know" podcast, we dive into the latest updates across Microsoft 365, GitHub Copilot, and SMB-focused strategies for scaling IT services. From new Teams features to deep dives into DLP alerts and co-partnering models for MSPs, this episode is packed with insights for IT professionals and small business tech leaders looking to stay ahead of the curve. I also take a look at building an agent to help you work with frameworks like the ASD Blueprint for Secure Cloud.
Resources
CIAOPS Need to Know podcast - CIAOPS - Need to Know podcasts | CIAOPS
Join my Teams shared channel - Join my Teams Shared Channel – CIAOPS
CIAOPS Merch store - CIAOPS
Become a CIAOPS Patron - CIAOPS Patron
CIAOPS Blog - CIAOPS – Information about SharePoint, Microsoft 365, Azure, Mobility and Productivity from the Computer Information Agency
CIAOPS Brief - CIA Brief – CIAOPS
Support CIAOPS - https://ko-fi.com/ciaops
Microsoft 365 & GitHub Copilot Updates
GPT-5 in Microsoft 365 Copilot: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2025/08/07/available-today-gpt-5-in-microsoft-365-copilot/
GPT-5 in Microsoft 365 Copilot: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2025/08/07/available-today-gpt-5-in-microsoft-365-copilot/
GPT-5 Public Preview for GitHub Copilot: https://github.blog/changelog/2025-08-07-openai-gpt-5-is-now-in-public-preview-for-github-copilot/
Microsoft Teams & UX Enhancements
Mic Volume Indicator in Teams: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/Microsoft365InsiderBlog/new-microphone-volume-indicator-in-teams/4442879
Pull Print in Universal Print: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/windows-itpro-blog/pull-print-is-now-available-in-universal-print/4441608
Audio Overview in Word via Copilot: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/Microsoft365InsiderBlog/listen-to-an-audio-overview-of-a-document-with-microsoft-365-copilot-in-word/4439362
Hidden OneDrive Features: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft365insiderblog/get-the-most-out-of-onedrive-with-these-little-known-features/4435197
SharePoint Header/Footer Enhancements: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/spblog/introducing-new-sharepoint-site-header--footer-enhancements/4444261
Security & Compliance
DLP Alerts Deep Dive (Part 1 & 2): https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft-security-blog/deep-dive-dlp-incidents-alerts--events---part-1/4443691
Security Exposure Management Ninja Training: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/securityexposuremanagement/microsoft-security-exposure-management-ninja-training/4444285
Microsoft Entra Internet Access & Shadow AI Protection: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft-entra-blog/uncover-shadow-ai-block-threats-and-protect-data-with-microsoft-entra-internet-a/4440787
ASD Blueprint for Secure Cloud - https://blueprint.asd.gov.au/
Aug 4, 2025
Aug 4, 2025
27 min
In Episode 351 of the CIAOPS “Need to Know” podcast, we explore how small MSPs can scale through shared knowledge. From peer collaboration and co-partnering strategies to AI-driven security frameworks and Microsoft 365 innovations, this episode delivers actionable insights for SMB IT professionals looking to grow smarter, not harder.
Resources
CIAOPS Need to Know podcast - CIAOPS - Need to Know podcasts | CIAOPS
Join my Teams shared channel - Join my Teams Shared Channel – CIAOPS
CIAOPS Merch store - CIAOPS
Become a CIAOPS Patron - CIAOPS Patron
CIAOPS Blog - CIAOPS – Information about SharePoint, Microsoft 365, Azure, Mobility and Productivity from the Computer Information Agency
CIAOPS Brief - CIA Brief – CIAOPS
Support CIAOPS - https://ko-fi.com/ciaops
Security & Threat Intelligence
Secret Blizzard AiTM Campaign: Microsoft uncovers a phishing campaign targeting diplomats. https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2025/07/31/frozen-in-transit-secret-blizzards-aitm-campaign-against-diplomats
Multi-modal Threat Protection: Defender’s advanced capabilities against complex threats. https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoftdefenderforoffice365blog/protection-against-multi-modal-attacks-with-microsoft-defender/4438786
AI Security Essentials: Microsoft’s approach to AI-related security concerns. https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft-security-blog/ai-security-essentials-what-companies-worry-about-and-how-microsoft-helps/4436639
macOS TCC Vulnerability: Spotlight-based flaw analysis. https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2025/07/28/sploitlight-analyzing-a-spotlight-based-macos-tcc-vulnerability/
Copilot Security Assessment: Microsoft’s framework for secure AI deployments. https://security-for-ai-assessment.microsoft.com/
Identity & Access Management
Modern Identity Defense: New threat detection tools from Microsoft. https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2025/07/31/modernize-your-identity-defense-with-microsoft-identity-threat-detection-and-response/
AI Agents & Identity: How AI is reshaping identity management. https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft-entra-blog/ai-agents-and-the-future-of-identity-what%E2%80%99s-on-the-minds-of-your-peers/4436815
Token Protection in Entra: Preview of enhanced conditional access. https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/entra/identity/conditional-access/concept-token-protection
Microsoft Earnings & Business Updates
FY25 Q4 Earnings: Strong growth in cloud and AI revenue. https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/Investor/earnings/FY-2025-Q4/press-release-webcast
Copilot & AI Enhancements
Copilot Without Recording: Use Copilot in Teams without meeting recordings. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/use-copilot-without-recording-a-teams-meeting-a59cb88c-0f6b-4a20-a47a-3a1c9a818bd9
Copilot Search Features: Acronyms and bookmarks walkthrough. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nftEC73Cjxo
Copilot Search Launch: General availability announcement. https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft365copilotblog/announcing-microsoft-365-copilot-search-general-availability-a-new-era-of-search/4435537
Productivity & Power Platform
PowerPoint Tips: 7 hidden features to elevate your presentations. https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft365insiderblog/take-your-presentation-skills-to-the-next-level-with-these-7-lesser-known-powerp/4433700
New Power Apps: Generative AI meets enterprise-grade trust. https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/power-platform/blog/power-apps/introducing-the-new-power-apps-generative-power-meets-enterprise-grade-trust/
Jul 21, 2025
Jul 21, 2025
24 min
In Episode 350 of the CIAOPS “Need to Know” podcast, along with the latest news from the Microsoft Cloud, we explore how Microsoft Power Pages is revolutionising web development for SMBs. Learn how this low-code platform enables businesses to build secure, scalable portals—without needing full-stack developers. From customer support portals to partner onboarding, discover real-world use cases, a step-by-step guide to building your first portal, and how Managed Service Providers (MSPs) can offer Power Pages as a service. This episode is a must-listen for IT professionals, MSPs, and business leaders driving digital transformation.
Resources
CIAOPS Need to Know podcast - CIAOPS - Need to Know podcasts | CIAOPS
Join my Teams shared channel - Join my Teams Shared Channel – CIAOPS
CIAOPS Merch store - CIAOPS
Become a CIAOPS Patron - CIAOPS Patron
CIAOPS Blog - CIAOPS – Information about SharePoint, Microsoft 365, Azure, Mobility and Productivity from the Computer Information Agency
CIAOPS Brief - CIA Brief – CIAOPS
Support CIAOPS - https://ko-fi.com/ciaops
Show Notes
Security & Compliance
- Microsoft Purview powers data protection in Security Copilot: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft-security-blog/microsoft-purview-powering-data-security-and-compliance-for-security-copilot/4433522
- AI Governance with Purview: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft-security-blog/secure-and-govern-ai-apps-and-agents-with-microsoft-purview/4429925
- Defender for Office 365 email security performance: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2025/07/17/transparency-on-microsoft-defender-for-office-365-email-security-effectiveness/
- Cloud Storage Protection in the age of AI: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/MicrosoftDefenderCloudBlog/protecting-cloud-storage-in-the-age-of-ai/4433854
- New Regulatory Frameworks in Defender for Cloud: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoftdefendercloudblog/microsoft-defender-for-cloud-adds-four-new-regulatory-frameworks/4433440
AI & Copilot
- Copilot Memory for personalised AI: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft365copilotblog/introducing-copilot-memory-a-more-productive-and-personalized-ai-for-the-way-you/4432059
- Security Copilot Admin Tools: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/securitycopilotblog/new-tools-for-security-copilot-management-and-capacity-planning/4432723
- Intune Integration with Copilot: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/intunecustomersuccess/microsoft-security-copilot-in-intune-deep-dive---part-3-explore-and-act-on-your-/4433019
- Surface Management Portal now supports Copilot: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/surfaceitpro/now-generally-available-microsoft-security-copilot-in-surface-management-portal/4429558
Learning & Productivity
- Microsoft Forms Tips: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft365insiderblog/get-the-most-out-of-microsoft-forms-with-these-little-known-features/4432179
Threat Intelligence
- Octo Tempest Attacks: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2025/07/16/protecting-customers-from-octo-tempest-attacks-across-multiple-industries/
- Defender Experts on proactive threat hunting: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqlxXf6JeQg
Platform & Tools
- Apple Device Enrollment in Intune: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/intunecustomersuccess/understanding-apple-enrollment-methods-in-microsoft-intune/4434586
Recognition & Industry Updates
- Microsoft Named Leader in Gartner Magic Quadrant for Endpoint Protection: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/2025/07/16/microsoft-is-named-a-leader-in-the-2025-gartner-magic-quadrant-for-endpoint-protection-platforms/
AI Governance & Design
- Agent Governance in Microsoft 365: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/healthcareandlifesciencesblog/mastering-agent-governance-in-microsoft-365/4416620
Media & Branding
- Microsoft Stream & Clipchamp brand unification: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft_365blog/microsoft-stream-and-microsoft-clipchamp-brand-unification-update-for-microsoft-/4433155
Jul 7, 2025
Jul 7, 2025
23 min
Explore the future of AI integration, Microsoft Cloud updates, and security innovations tailored for the SMB market. In this episode, we dive into the transformative role of AI MCP servers, the latest Microsoft 365 and Teams updates, and practical security and compliance strategies. Whether you're an IT pro, business leader, or tech enthusiast, this episode delivers actionable insights and resources to stay ahead in the Microsoft ecosystem.
Resources
CIAOPS Need to Know podcast - CIAOPS - Need to Know podcasts | CIAOPS
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CIAOPS Merch store - CIAOPS
Become a CIAOPS Patron - CIAOPS Patron
CIAOPS Blog - CIAOPS – Information about SharePoint, Microsoft 365, Azure, Mobility and Productivity from the Computer Information Agency
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Support CIAOPS - https://ko-fi.com/ciaops
What’s new in Microsoft Entra – June 2025: Highlights include upcoming support for backing up account names in the Authenticator app using iCloud Keychain
Enhancing Defense Security with Entra ID Governance: Discusses how Entra ID Governance strengthens defense sector security
What’s New in Microsoft Teams | June 2025: Covers new Teams features and enhancements 3.
What’s new in Microsoft Intune: June 2025: Summarizes Intune updates including device management improvements
Microsoft Intune data-driven management | Device Query & Copilot: Introduces new Copilot-powered device query features
Data Breach Reporting with Microsoft Data Security Investigations: Guidance on regulatory breach reporting
Modern, unified data security in the AI era: New Microsoft Purview capabilities for AI-driven data protection
Safeguarding data with Microsoft 365 Copilot: Focuses on compliance and security in Copilot deployments
Protection Against Email Bombs: Microsoft Defender for Office 365 introduces new protections
Introducing the Microsoft 365 Copilot App Learning Series: Learning resources for Copilot adoption
Making the Most of Attack Simulation Training: Best practices for security training
Processing status pane for SharePoint Autofill: New UI enhancements for SharePoint
Introducing the New SharePoint Template Gallery: Streamlined template discovery and usage
Planning your move to Microsoft Defender portal: Transition guidance for Sentinel customers
Jasper Sleet: North Korean IT infiltration tactics: Threat intelligence update
Managing warehouse devices with Microsoft Intune: Real-world Intune use case