Microsoft Defender Experts

Microsoft Defender Experts Suite

Overview

Microsoft launched the Microsoft Defender Experts Suite in January 2026. It’s a managed extended detection and response (MXDR) service that connects companies with Microsoft’s own security teams to address their cybersecurity needs. Only available through the EA, the suite bundles three offerings:

• Microsoft Defender Experts for XDR for proactive threat hunting
• Microsoft Incident Response for cyberattack handling
• Microsoft Enhanced Designated Engineering for long-term security optimization.

Licensing

Two plans are available for customers already licensed with Microsoft 365 E5, the Defender Suite, the Defender Suite FLW, or the Defender + Purview Suite FLW. In addition, there’s a promotion running from January 1, 2026 until December 31, 2026 for customers who already have Microsoft 365 E5 or Defender + Purview Suite FLW licenses, and who purchase more than 1,500 licenses of the new suites.