Data Loss Prevention (DLP) is a critical component of modern security strategies, especially with the explosion of remote work and the proliferation of endpoints. While DLP policies for cloud services like SharePoint and OneDrive are well-known, Microsoft Purview Device DLP offers distinctive capabilities that extend protection to user endpoints—providing additional layers of control and visibility.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- What makes device DLP policies unique?
- Use-cases that can’t be covered by SharePoint/OneDrive DLP
- Pros and cons
What makes device (endpoint) DLP policies unique?
Device DLP policies in Microsoft Purview allow organisations to monitor and restrict sensitive data activity on Windows 10/11 devices. This extends DLP protection beyond cloud services to where data is often most vulnerable—on endpoints. Unlike DLP policies configured for cloud services such as SharePoint or OneDrive, endpoint DLP provides visibility and enforcement at the point of data interaction—before data ever leaves the device or enters the cloud.
Use-cases that can't be covered by SharePoint/OneDrive DLP
Copying sensitive data to USB or removable media
Cloud DLP can’t prevent data from being copied from a local file to a USB drive or unapproved Bluetooth device. Device DLP can block (with or without override option) or audit this, mitigating data exfiltration via portable storage.
Print Blocking
Device DLP can detect when a user tries to print a sensitive document and can block or audit the print job. This capability helps prevent data loss through physical means—such as printed documents being misplaced, improperly stored, or intentionally removed from secure environments.
Restricting Unapproved Apps and Cloud Services
Endpoint DLP allows you to maintain a list of unsanctioned web domains—such as WhatsApp—and block file uploads to them. If a user attempts to upload sensitive data to an unapproved site, the DLP agent can intervene. If a user attempts to upload sensitive data through an unsupported browser, the session can be automatically redirected to Microsoft Edge, enabling proper content inspection and policy enforcement.
Copy/Paste and Clipboard Restrictions
Endpoint DLP can block or require justification before sensitive content copied to the clipboard—such as a customer’s Social Security Number—is pasted into unauthorised apps or websites. These controls apply across applications and remain effective even in remote desktop (RDP) sessions.
Offline Protection
While cloud-based DLP relies on cloud activity to enforce policies, Endpoint DLP extends real-time protection directly to the device—regardless of network connectivity. This ensures consistent, zero-trust policy enforcement even when users are offline, making it a vital capability for safeguarding sensitive data in real-world scenarios such as remote work, travel, or periods of limited connectivity.
Pros and cons
Key Advantages
Endpoint-Level Control
Extends data protection beyond the cloud by enforcing policies directly on user devices, closing critical security gaps in local data handling.
Offline Policy Enforcement
Maintains consistent protection even when devices are disconnected from the network, ensuring that data loss prevention remains effective at all times.
 Granular Activity Monitoring
Provides detailed visibility into user actions—such as copying files to USB drives, printing sensitive documents, or pasting content—enabling precise auditing and response.
Seamless Integration with Microsoft Defender for Endpoint
Enhances threat detection and investigation by generating enriched alerts and correlating DLP events with broader security incidents across the organization.
Considerations and Limitations
Platform Limitation (Windows-Only)
Currently supported only on Windows 10 and 11 devices, with no native support for macOS or Linux as of mid-2025, limiting cross-platform coverage.
Complex Configuration Requirements
Effective deployment requires careful planning and setup, including the configuration of sensitivity labels, endpoint DLP policies, and device onboarding through Microsoft Defender for Endpoint.
Potential Performance Impact
Depending on the complexity and number of rules applied, some users may experience minor latency or performance overhead during monitored activities.
Application Coverage Limitations
Full enforcement is optimized for Microsoft Edge and select supported applications. Coverage for third-party browsers and legacy apps may be limited or inconsistent.
Licensing and Cost Considerations
Access to Endpoint DLP features requires advanced Microsoft 365 licensing. Specifically, organisations must have M365 E5, M365 A5, or at a minimum, the M365 E5 Compliance add-on.
Feel free to contact us at contact@infotechtion.com if you need any help configuring similar scenarios.
