Deep Dive into Preview Features in Microsoft Defender Console

Background for Discussion

Microsoft Defender XDR (Extended Detection and Response) is evolving rapidly, offering enhanced security capabilities through preview features that can be enabled in the MDE console. These preview features are accessible via:

Path:
Settings > Microsoft Defender XDR > General > Preview features

Under this section, users can opt into three distinct integrations:

1. Microsoft Defender XDR + Microsoft Defender for Identity
2. Microsoft Defender for Endpoint
3. Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps

Each of these options unlocks advanced functionalities that improve threat detection, incident correlation, and response automation across identity, endpoint, and cloud environments.

However, enabling these features is optional and may depend on organizational readiness or policy.

This raises important questions about:

• What specific technical capabilities are introduced by each preview feature?
• Where exactly are these feature parameters are reflected in the MDE console?
• What happens if an organization chooses not to enable these preview features?
• Are there alternative ways to access similar functionalities through public preview or general availability?