> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://helpcenter.gitprotect.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://helpcenter.gitprotect.io/backup-and-recovery/microsoft-365/backup/process-overview.md).
# Process overview
An overview of Microsoft 365 backup plans in GitProtect.
**In GitProtect, creating a backup plan allows you to define what data should be protected, where backups are stored, and how often they are performed.**
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## General information
A **Microsoft 365** backup plan in **GitProtect** defines which data is protected, how frequently backups are performed, and how long recovery points are retained. A dedicated **Microsoft 365** backup plan enables protection of mailboxes, **OneDrive** resources, and **SharePoint** sites while applying automated schedules and granular retention policies that align with organizational data protection and compliance requirements.
To optimize backup tasks, **GitProtect Management Service** provides several advanced features that enable flexible configuration based on specific infrastructure requirements. When creating a backup plan, you can customize settings such as backup windows, task balancing, storage locations, bandwidth limits, and more.
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## Selective backup configuration
**GitProtect** provides granular control over **Microsoft 365** backups. Instead of backing up an entire environment, you can selectively target specific data types—such as messages, calendars, or contacts—to optimize storage capacity and focus exclusively on critical assets.
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## Microsoft 365 groups
**GitProtect** supports **Microsoft 365** groups — they appear in the users list (for example, when creating a backup plan) and can be used to filter it.
{% hint style="warning" %}
If you cannot see the **Groups** field and the **Search by group** option is unavailable in **GitProtect Management Service**, re-register your **Microsoft 365** organization to enable these options.
{% endhint %}
