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DanielleHaneveer's avatar
DanielleHaneveer
Iron Contributor
Mar 23, 2025

Retention labels vs. Sensitivity labels

Retention vs Sensitivity Labels: What You Need to Know

Struggling to tell Microsoft 365's labeling systems apart?

You're not alone! These powerful tools serve critical but different purposes;

  • Retention labels control your content's LIFECYCLE - automatically preserving or deleting documents based on your compliance needs
  • Sensitivity labels PROTECT your sensitive information through encryption, access controls, and visual markings
  • Both are essential for a complete governance strategy, but they're configured separately and work independently

Don't miss the protection you need by confusing these two systems! Understanding the right label for the right purpose keeps your organization both compliant AND secure.

 

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