Microsoft Exchange vs. Mimecast Advanced Email Security

Overview
ProductRatingMost Used ByProduct SummaryStarting Price
Microsoft Exchange
Score 9.2 out of 10
N/A
Microsoft Exchange is a secure email / messaging gateway with file archiving and encryption / data loss capability, available as a hosted service (Exchange Online) or installed (Exchange Server).N/A
Mimecast Advanced Email Security
Score 8.6 out of 10
N/A
The Mimecast Secure Email Gateway is a messaging security option with anti-spam / anti-malware, data loss prevention, large file send, and other features, from UK company Mimecast.N/A
Pricing
Microsoft ExchangeMimecast Advanced Email Security
Editions & Modules
No answers on this topic
No answers on this topic
Offerings
Pricing Offerings
Microsoft ExchangeMimecast Advanced Email Security
Free Trial
NoYes
Free/Freemium Version
NoNo
Premium Consulting/Integration Services
NoNo
Entry-level Setup FeeNo setup feeNo setup fee
Additional Details
More Pricing Information
Community Pulse
Microsoft ExchangeMimecast Advanced Email Security
Considered Both Products
Microsoft Exchange
Chose Microsoft Exchange
We have not tried other Email server products yet, but we are about to make this step in the near future. We are definitely going to try several Linux-based Email Server solutions so that we can choose the one that better suits our needs. Have some time to do this, as our …
Chose Microsoft Exchange
We had a Zimbra on-premise server earlier and were pretty satisfied with it. But when compared with the advanced features of the Microsoft Exchange server, we could easily justify our purchase team to go for this since we already have O365 apps.
Chose Microsoft Exchange
Microsoft Exchange Product The best cloud-based enterprise-grade archiving platform with a host of features that enable files to be securely archived and retrieved with advanced search options. This tool is very easy to use and has a User-friendly interface. It is a highly …
Chose Microsoft Exchange
Both items are used by me on a daily basis. Microsoft Exchange and Microsoft SharePoint don't seem to have a lot in common to me. When working with the Exchange platform, it's all about scheduling events in the calendar and sending emails. I was able to find the most crucial …
Chose Microsoft Exchange
Most of the 365 subscriptions include desktop and cloud versions of Microsoft programs. These "traditional" software may be installed on a desktop computer and used offline without any problems, as long as you have a working Internet connection. Because so many firms still …
Chose Microsoft Exchange
1) The cost per user is almost the same (around $3 USD more than Google Workspace) but the Office tools that Microsoft includes are the best in the market. The end-users are really adapted to them and the other tools like Google Sheets and Google Documents are really bad. 2) …
Chose Microsoft Exchange
Given all businesses I have worked for used Windows OS and Microsoft applications, it makes sense to stick with Microsoft Exchange. It's a given that if you use Microsoft applications you should use Microsoft Exchange.
Chose Microsoft Exchange
Microsoft Exchange is used by several companies worldwide due to its versatility and competitive rates which includes Office 365 (depending on the license purchased), it stacks up against other vendors e.g., Google. MS Exchange provides shared mailboxes which are not available …
Chose Microsoft Exchange
In comparison to Amazon SES, Microsoft Exchange was significantly more flexible and customizable. Amazon SES seems more complicated from an administrative standpoint. It became more difficult for us to consider migrating to a new platform since our workers were more comfortable …
Chose Microsoft Exchange
It has better ease of integration with the servers and company data. It has a relatively better cost compared to all the tools available. The privacy features and capabilities are something best in class.
Chose Microsoft Exchange
Office 365 is not recommended for shared use so we are using Microsoft Exchange. This helps to have access to multiple users and easy access to emails and calendars to provide support round the clock.
Chose Microsoft Exchange
Microsoft Exchange offered far more flexibility and customization than Google Workspace. From an administration perspective, it seemed easier to work with Exchange than with Gsuite/Google Workspace. Our employees were more familiar with Microsoft and their comfort level made …
Chose Microsoft Exchange
Easy to use, keeping calendar as an inbuilt feature and other AI tools which are missing on other companies features.
Chose Microsoft Exchange
I myself am a front-end user of both products. I don't really see too much of a comparison between Microsoft Exchange and Microsoft SharePoint. When using the Exchange platform it is more about calendar appointments and email communication. Using share Point I was able to …
Chose Microsoft Exchange
Microsoft is more sturdy and feature-packed than GSuite. Especially with the Office integrations, even though the UI doesn't stand up against them, it offers way better features and is just more convenient to use for what we require at our organization.
Chose Microsoft Exchange
Office 365 is pure ease. You get excellent compatibility with the entire Microsoft Office suite, as well as affordable access to Microsoft Office applications. All of this is supported by Microsoft's extremely dependable cloud. It's a great option for small businesses that …
Chose Microsoft Exchange
We use Zimbra for some specific tasks in our company. Microsoft has superiority over Zimbra in terms of the graphical user interface. I like the Microsoft exchange interface as it is more futuristic. Also, Microsoft exchange has a better user experience. Zimbra mail can be …
Chose Microsoft Exchange
It gives the impression of being a more professional and more robust tool. Despite the large amount of data, it always manages them at its best, without performance problems.
Chose Microsoft Exchange
Google workspace has excellent spam filtering, but poor customizability without resorting to third-party software or hacks/workarounds. Microsoft 365 has its own problems. We are currently using both Microsoft Exchange and Exchange Online (Microsoft 365) to handle mailbox …
Chose Microsoft Exchange
We found the Microsoft Exchange to be more robust and loaded with features which made our life easy and our ability to communicate and provide\get updates more efficient. Microsoft Exchange provided more advanced security features which were what our organization was looking …
Chose Microsoft Exchange
It provides me enhanced security over Gmail and is easy to navigate all around the console but its cost can be made less cheap as compared to Gmail.
Chose Microsoft Exchange
Simply put, would never use anything but Microsoft Exchange. Never considered any other applications.
Chose Microsoft Exchange
Microsoft Exchange is the go-to software if you are going with the Microsoft stack as your main infrastructure provider. It made the most sense going with Microsoft to use Outlook with Exchange, as it would provide the most seamless experience when paired with Defender or most …
Chose Microsoft Exchange
We acquired Microsoft Exchange because they offered us a super package with a good discount, and this favored the change. We also made the decision because, as a work tool, it offers us a wide range of options to work in a team and with other areas. This opens up the …
Mimecast Advanced Email Security
Chose Mimecast Advanced Email Security
Mimecast offers the same or better features with great pricing. It is definitely a value for money product, that constantly provide improved and new features. Also the learning academy allows for self-paced training of administrators.
Chose Mimecast Advanced Email Security
Mimecast Advanced Email Security is FAR superior. Sophos practically gave us the email for free and we still didn't want it. Sophos also does not do both Gateway and API properly. Mimecast Advanced Email Security's AI-Powered net is next level.
Chose Mimecast Advanced Email Security
Because we already were customers.
Chose Mimecast Advanced Email Security
Microsoft 365 Business Premium, Barracuda Email Security Gateway, SonicWall Email Security Appliances, Cisco Meraki MX and Cisco Routers
Chose Mimecast Advanced Email Security
In my opinion, Mimecast Advanced Email Security outpaces Microsoft in terms of usability and reduction of spam and phishing emails. Mimecast Advanced Email Security was cheaper than Proofpoint, but I suspect Proofpoint is doing better on staying current with trends than …
Chose Mimecast Advanced Email Security
Less customizable than Mimecast Advanced Email Security. Less policy options
Chose Mimecast Advanced Email Security
Since implementing Mimecast Advanced Email Security there hasn't been a need for us to investigate other solutions. We do however use KnowBe4's PhishER as an end-user tool for reporting emails that get through.
Chose Mimecast Advanced Email Security
The product is more straightforward with minimal knowledge; everything has a clear, concise layout and makes sense. There are help tips on all the definitions and policies, and the support team quickly responds if required.
Chose Mimecast Advanced Email Security
Abnormal isn't a gateway, but instead performs similar security features via M365 apis. It is very "identity" focused which helps with more modern scams.

M365 has some email security tools, but they are not as customizable or reportable. Mimecast tools far exceed them.
Chose Mimecast Advanced Email Security
Proofpoint ATP offered strong threat detection and forensics, but it was more complex to manage and significantly more expensive. Microsoft 365 Defender had solid native integration with M365, but its filtering and impersonation protection weren’t as strong out of the box, …
Chose Mimecast Advanced Email Security
I have never really used Mimecast or Sophos, which was an on-prem mail filtering tool - Now use 365 Defender services alongside Mimecast.
Chose Mimecast Advanced Email Security
Mimecast Advanced Email Security had a reputation in the industry we went with, and the price was very competitive at the time.
Chose Mimecast Advanced Email Security
The reason we went with Mimecast over other products was for the partnership. We heard from our businesses who utilize Mimecast of their great partnerships and relationships they build with their customers. We meet with our representative quarterly to discuss any trends in the …
Chose Mimecast Advanced Email Security
We find that Mimecast is superior to other email filters with admin console page and support line help.
Chose Mimecast Advanced Email Security
Fortinet is a premise pased system modified for SaaS use. we were not impressed with the UI either.

Abnormal was great and likely hasd smarter filtering. We did not like the price.
Chose Mimecast Advanced Email Security
Mimecast stacks up really well against these products. The price of Mimecast made it hard to say no to.
Chose Mimecast Advanced Email Security
It stacks up very well against it as it offers much more functionality and better detection.
Chose Mimecast Advanced Email Security
It has a better interface and is easy to use and understand. It also has better customer service, which is easy to reach. It is also more commercialized, which makes finding products, solutions, and add-ons better and easier to navigate and purchase.
Chose Mimecast Advanced Email Security
At the time, Mimecast was the leading industry standard, and we needed a better solution, so it was only natural. After checking out our options, I chose the tool that worked for me the best. Mimecast gave me a platform that did everything i was already working on via one …
Chose Mimecast Advanced Email Security
Proofpoint Email Protection and Abnormal Security
Features
Microsoft ExchangeMimecast Advanced Email Security
Secure Email Gateway
Comparison of Secure Email Gateway features of Product A and Product B
Microsoft Exchange
8.1
Ratings
3% below category average
Mimecast Advanced Email Security
8.0
Ratings
4% below category average
Anti-malware8.10 Ratings8.50 Ratings
Customizability7.90 Ratings8.50 Ratings
Data Loss Protection8.60 Ratings6.50 Ratings
Threat Detection8.00 Ratings8.40 Ratings
Sandboxing7.40 Ratings8.00 Ratings
End-to-End Encryption8.30 Ratings8.60 Ratings
Management Tools8.40 Ratings7.70 Ratings
Best Alternatives
Microsoft ExchangeMimecast Advanced Email Security
Small Businesses
Zoho Mail
Zoho Mail
Score 9.3 out of 10
Zoho Mail
Zoho Mail
Score 9.3 out of 10
Medium-sized Companies
Avanan
Avanan
Score 9.4 out of 10
Avanan
Avanan
Score 9.4 out of 10
Enterprises
Avanan
Avanan
Score 9.4 out of 10
Avanan
Avanan
Score 9.4 out of 10
All AlternativesView all alternativesView all alternatives
User Ratings
Microsoft ExchangeMimecast Advanced Email Security
Likelihood to Recommend
8.8
(0 ratings)
8.5
(0 ratings)
Likelihood to Renew
8.0
(0 ratings)
8.8
(0 ratings)
Usability
9.0
(0 ratings)
8.2
(0 ratings)
Availability
10.0
(0 ratings)
8.0
(0 ratings)
Performance
9.0
(0 ratings)
8.0
(0 ratings)
Support Rating
9.9
(0 ratings)
6.0
(0 ratings)
Implementation Rating
10.0
(0 ratings)
10.0
(0 ratings)
Configurability
7.0
(0 ratings)
9.0
(0 ratings)
Ease of integration
5.0
(0 ratings)
8.8
(0 ratings)
Product Scalability
10.0
(0 ratings)
9.0
(0 ratings)
Vendor post-sale
5.0
(0 ratings)
8.0
(0 ratings)
Vendor pre-sale
8.0
(0 ratings)
8.0
(0 ratings)
User Testimonials
Microsoft ExchangeMimecast Advanced Email Security
Likelihood to Recommend
For our clients, the switch to an entirely independent (parallel processing) Microsoft Exchange Server was a lifesaver because previous software versions frequently crashed. The clever viva add-on informs me of any things that are still uncompleted in my large email to-do lists. Migrating to Office 365 has never been easier because to the meticulous preparation that has gone into it. Web applications will load more quickly.
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Mimecast's advanced email security remains the number one security tool available for any organization. You will be ahead of the game before anything gets in and users start clicking. Users are often the ones who can disclose sensitive data and compromise the organization and its brand.
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Pros
  • An in-built calendar to manage your daily work schedule. Let's you create events, invite a particular group of people, accept invitations, and remind you of your upcoming meetings and tasks.
  • I also like the daily emails we get from Exchange that ask you to set aside time for yourself or your other hobbies to take a short break from monotonous work.
  • The email categorization feature is pretty good, especially the sort/search filtering option to navigate through your emails, which can also go through your deleted emails.
  • It has an excellent spam-filtering feature which greatly reduces the chance of malware and spam. I have hardly seen spam emails get through their filter. On the other hand, it also recognizes emails from external organizations that may be spam, but are important work emails.
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  • Simplicity: Once set up, Mimecast Advanced Email Security is easy to use, intuitive, and simple. This reduces onboarding time with new employees.
  • Robust Audit Trail: Being able to see what happened with specific emails, why things happened, and who was responsible for them helps to reduce troubleshooting time as well as improving overall email observability.
  • Clean Interface: Mimecast Advanced Email Security is a Swiss-Army-Knife of email security. There are many different configurations and complex rules that can be implemented. To make this manageable Mimecast Advanced Email Security has implemented a simple and clean UI. Being able to favorite commonly used features makes a huge difference in usability.
  • Simple SSO Integration: This seems like a no-brainer, but its odd to see how many SaaS products either don't support SSO, or make it so complicated and convoluted that setup and maintenance becomes a fully time job.
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Cons
  • The two main factors for the better reliability & Uptime of internally hosted Exchange Server depends on Exchange Server configuration and the level of investment the organization is willing to provide for hosting the Exchange Server On-Premise Environment. As the data is stored in the organization’s hardware, any disaster may lead to the loss of email and servers.
  • Losing data might affect business continuity and rebuilding it can be costly.
  • Security remains a major concern.
  • Security of data loss is main concern. To ensure that, organization needs to configure networks, systems and Exchange platform against possible threats.
  • Hardware and license costs are high.
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  • I would like to see some additional improvement around the attachment protection, specifically what may be getting caught and what types of files are attempting to be delivered via email by impersonators.
  • The Targeted Threat Protection is a great product, and I wish there was a dashboard for this service where we could easily see the types of emails and/or links that have been caught as part of the protection module that could be shared with executives.
  • Finally, I feel that the phishing protection is great and honestly don't believe there should be much improvement needed there.
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Likelihood to Renew
Email and calendars in a business setting are requirements. And Microsoft continues to be the standard of business applications. Microsoft 365 makes Microsoft Exchange easy to use. Everything is in the cloud. Let Microsoft take care of the hardware, the software, and the security. You just enable your business users with the functionality they need.
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I gave a 9/10 rating because with the 1 limited resources needs a bit of experience to work on the dashboard, and then Strong protection policies, reliable email continuity and proactive threat intelligence.
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Usability
Microsoft Exchange has come a long way over the years and has nowhere near the technical overhead required for support as it did back in 2003/2007 and prior. The integrations with Teams, Defender, Sharepoint, Copilot and many other products make it a solid and well-rounded tool used for many day-to-day tasks.
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As an admin it's fine, the console has some slightly annoying quirks (having to to go all the way back to the top when making changes rather than being able to just go up one level for example) and the object orientated nature of it takes some getting your head around how it thinks. But generally speaking it's decent enough once you've used it for a couple of hours
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Reliability and Availability
Exchange is setup with multiple servers behind load balancers to provide high availability.
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Overall, it's very good, but I do remember a few times in the past year we have seen some availability issues.
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Performance
I would say it's the best email product I've experienced.
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Pages need to consistently load quickly. Sometimes good, sometimes not.
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Support Rating
We have a good enterprise agreement with Microsoft which affords us quick phone support. I have found the support staff knowledgeable and prompt with a solution when required. At times it may be difficult to schedule a call back, this is mainly due to our need for calls early in the morning which happens to be during a shift change at Microsoft support.
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When calling them you get best in the world customer services but as previously mentioned their online community and capabilities are a bit lacking. They want you to log into their portal to see updates on issues (vs. using a public facing service) and I rarely find the answers to my issues in electronic format. Their online presence is only helpful with the simplest of issues.
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In-Person Training
No answers on this topic
We did not have in-person training. All was done through meetings and on phone.
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Online Training
No answers on this topic
Training was good from Mimecast as well as the Mimecast knowledgebase.
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Implementation Rating
Implementation/conversion can be quite complex and, unless you have certified Exchange administrators in-house, you should strongly consider a 3rd party consultant for this implementation.
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Easy to set up and configure, but did have Mimecast assistance.
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Alternatives Considered
Microsoft Exchange Product The best cloud-based enterprise-grade archiving platform with a host of features that enable files to be securely archived and retrieved with advanced search options. This tool is very easy to use and has a User-friendly interface. It is a highly reliable platform that allows all employees to automatically store their data without any limitations. It offers a cost-effective solution with customized policy management. We are happy that the customer support team is always fast and concerned, and the product's uninterrupted service experience. It is very good that it stores data in real-time without losing it, even in the event of a disaster. The cost-effective solution and integration with other tools are seamless.
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Mimecast Advanced Email Security is FAR superior. Sophos practically gave us the email for free and we still didn't want it. Sophos also does not do both Gateway and API properly. Mimecast Advanced Email Security's AI-Powered net is next level.
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Scalability
The only time Exchange has failed us is when we did something to cause the failure.
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The solution continues to grow and add features.
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Return on Investment
  • After testing I found Exchange very good at removing/quarantining malware.
  • The Global Address List is great for finding the correct person within the organization to deal with.
  • The Clutter feature is terrible. Sometimes putting important emails into that folder for no discernible reason.
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  • We've had to beef up training and other email security tools because we get too many spam and phishing emails still with Mimecast Advanced Email Security in place. This is costing us at least an extra 15% annually in staff time and tooling than it should.
  • We have been pleased with data loss prevention with Mimecast Advanced Email Security, it does identify PII and auto-encrypts emails with PII effectively.
  • It does have the ability to integrate with other security tools via API, which is beneficial.
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