Microsoft Copilot
Microsoft Copilot (with Enterprise Data Protection) is a generative AI-powered assistant designed to boost productivity, enhance creativity, and streamline workflows. Using large language models like GPT-4 and DALL-E 3, Copilot assists with content creation, data analysis, and conversational AI.
At Penn State, faculty, staff, and students can access Microsoft Copilot with Enterprise Data Protection for free as part of the University’s Microsoft contract.
Key Features of Microsoft Copilot
Copilot can assist with:
- Content Generation – Draft emails, reports, and presentations.
- Document Summarization – Quickly extract key points.
- Creative Image Capabilities – Generate visuals using AI.
- Conversational AI – Get answers, brainstorm ideas, and refine writing.
- Productivity & Efficiency – Automate tasks and optimize workflows.
Up-to-Date, Verified Information
Copilot provides real-time responses using the latest online data and cites sources, so users can verify accuracy before taking action.
Get Started with Microsoft Copilot
- Go to copilot.microsoft.com (available in Edge, Chrome, Firefox, and Safari).
- Click “Sign in with a work or school account.”
- Log in with your Penn State user ID and password and complete Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).
- Verify enterprise access – A white shield in the upper right corner confirms Enterprise Data Protection is active.
Session Limits: You can use 30 prompts per session and up to 300 sessions in 24 hours.
Enterprise-Grade Capabilities
Microsoft Copilot at Penn State operates under Enterprise Data Protection, ensuring:
- Secure data handling – Prompts and responses are protected under the same contractual terms and commitments as other Microsoft 365 services, such as Exchange and SharePoint.
- Privacy assurance – User inputs are not used to train Microsoft’s AI models, including Copilot for Microsoft 365.
- Access with Penn State credentials – Faculty, staff, and students can securely sign in using their Penn State user ID and password.
Note: Copilot is available in Microsoft Edge, Chrome, Firefox, and Safari on both desktop and mobile.
Why Use Microsoft Copilot with Enterprise Data Protection?
Microsoft Copilot offers enhanced security and compliance compared to consumer AI tools like ChatGPT or Google Gemini.
Key Benefits:
Secure Data Handling
Prompts and responses remain within Microsoft 365’s security framework. Users can delete their Copilot activity history via the My Account portal.
Enterprise Data Access Controls
Copilot respects existing Microsoft 365 access permissions, ensuring users only access authorized data.
Transparency & Verifiability
Copilot cites sources for fact-checking, unlike consumer AI tools.
University Support & Provisioning
Managed through Penn State’s Microsoft contract, with IT support available.
Regulatory Compliance
Copilot meets enterprise security and compliance standards, unlike many consumer AI tools.
These features make Microsoft Copilot the best AI tool for academic and enterprise use at Penn State.
Appropriate Data Usage
To ensure data security, only Level 1 (public) or Level 2 (moderate) data should be used with Copilot
- Do NOT input highly confidential (Level 3 or 4) data.
- Check Penn State’s data classification policy (AD95) before entering any institutional data.
While Microsoft does not use data from Copilot Chat to train their AI models, it’s still crucial to exercise caution. Ensure you understand Penn State’s data classification guidelines. Do not use Copilot with Level 3 or 4 data.
Exercising prudence when handling institutional data allows you to leverage Copilot’s capabilities securely. If you’re unsure about data classifications or appropriate usage scenarios, consult your IT team for guidance before proceeding.
Have questions or need help?
Contact an IT Service Desk by submitting an online help request.