Compliance vs Security: Understanding the Difference
Understanding the Concept
Security and Compliance are related but distinct disciplines. Security focuses on protecting systems and data from threats, while Compliance ensures adherence to laws, regulations, and internal policies.
Microsoft Defender handles security (threat protection, vulnerability management), while Microsoft Purview handles compliance (data governance, DLP, eDiscovery, records management).
In practice, they work together: Security protects from external threats, Compliance protects from internal risks and ensures regulatory adherence.
Key Points
- Security = Protection from threats (external focus)
- Compliance = Adherence to regulations (internal/regulatory focus)
- Microsoft Defender = Security suite
- Microsoft Purview = Compliance suite
- Both are needed for comprehensive data protection
Security vs Compliance Stack
Microsoft Defender
Threat protection, XDR, vulnerability management, SIEM/SOAR
Microsoft Purview
DLP, Information Protection, eDiscovery, Compliance Manager
Integration Layer
Signals flow between both for comprehensive protection
Unified Admin
Microsoft 365 Admin Center for centralized management
Why This Matters in Real Organizations
Organizations often conflate security and compliance, leading to gaps in protection. A secure environment might still be non-compliant, and a compliant environment might still be vulnerable. Understanding the distinction helps allocate resources correctly and ensures nothing falls through the cracks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Interview Tips
- Clearly articulate the difference between security and compliance
- Explain how DLP differs from threat protection
- Discuss the overlap and integration points
Exam Tips (SC-401)
- Know which features belong to Defender vs Purview
- Understand when to use which tool for specific scenarios
- Remember: Purview = data governance, Defender = threat protection
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