Introduction
This article describes
- The benefits of using Exchange Online and the recommended operating system/client combinations that support it.
- Which connection methods are disabled for either environment.
- Security Tips
Explanation
Table of Contents
Recommended Clients
Microsoft Exchange Online is a cloud-based email and calendaring service that is part of Microsoft 365. It offers a dependable, secure, and collaborative way to manage email, calendar, contacts, and room resources. In 2016, the university shifted from Exchange on-premises to Exchange Online to leverage the scalability and security of the cloud service. In 2023 to 2024, the university shifted all email users except alumni to Exchange Online.
To take full advantage of Exchange Online, desktop users will need to use a supported Messaging Application Programming Interface (MAPI)-capable email client. The following lists which operating system/email client combinations best support the advanced features and functionalities of Microsoft Exchange Online.
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Desktop Operating Systems |
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All |
*Outlook on the web (OWA, https://outlook.office.com/) |
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Windows |
*M365 Outlook for desktop |
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Windows Mail |
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Mac |
*M365 Outlook for Mac |
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Apple Mail |
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Mobile Operating Systems |
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Android |
*Outlook mobile app (OMA) |
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Gmail app |
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iOS |
*Outlook mobile app (OMA) |
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Apple mail |
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*Asterisk indicates recommended applications. By using the recommended applications, users will experience the fullest feature set and best support and stability. |
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Disabled Connection Methods
Exchange Online
IMAP and POP3 connection methods are not supported in VT's Exchange Online environment. The supported Outlook email clients using the MAPI connection method provide a more secure and feature rich user experience to include:
- Performance and synchronization improvements: With direct server-to-client communication users will experience less delays in receiving messages and better synchronization.
- Enhanced support and management: Supporting consistent configurations across MAPI clients can improve security, compliance, and centralized management.
- Security: using MAPI clients ensures support of advanced security features like integrated multi-factor authentication (MFA) and best security policy practices including data-loss prevention (DLP) mechanisms.
Advanced integration: these clients also offer more comprehensive integration with Microsoft's ecosystem, including features like offline access, rich calendaring, and advanced mailbox capabilities.
Gmail
POP is no longer supported by Google in Gmail. You have options to continue accessing your emails from your other email provider:
- Check your account(s) separately at their respective 3rd party web interface(s) and maintain best security practices
- Use a dedicated email client (other than Gmail through a browser) to check all accounts using IMAP or the settings as recommended by the third party.
- Add your account to the Gmail app (mobile): You can use a standard IMAP connection to continue to read and send emails from your other account in the Gmail app for Android, iPhone, and iPad, which uses a standard IMAP connection. Learn how to add another email account to the Gmail app.
Security Tips
- Always use strong, unique passwords for each account.
- Enable two-factor authentication where possible.
- Never share your login details—keep them private and secure.