Understanding the Deprecation of Basic Authentication in Exchange Online
As the use of cloud-based solutions continues to grow, so too does the need for secure authentication protocols. In order to ensure that all users of Microsoft Exchange Online receive the highest levels of security and protection, Microsoft recently announced the deprecation of Basic Authentication in Exchange Online. This blog post will provide an overview of the deprecation of Basic Authentication and explain how it will affect users of Exchange Online.
What is Basic Authentication?
Basic Authentication is a type of authentication protocol used for authenticating a user to an application or service. It works by sending an encrypted username and password to the server of the application or service, which then verifies the credentials and allows the user access to the application or service. Basic Authentication is considered less secure than other authentication protocols such as OAuth, OpenID Connect, and SAML.
Why is Microsoft Deprecating Basic Authentication?
Microsoft is deprecating Basic Authentication in Exchange Online in order to provide users with a more secure authentication protocol. Basic Authentication is considered less secure than other authentication protocols, and Microsoft is taking steps to ensure that all users of Exchange Online have access to the highest levels of security and protection.
When Will Basic Authentication Be Deprecated?
Microsoft has announced that Basic Authentication will be deprecated in Exchange Online in May 2022. This means that users of Exchange Online will no longer be able to use Basic Authentication to access the service, and will need to switch to an alternate authentication protocol such as OAuth, OpenID Connect, or SAML.
How Can I Switch from Basic Authentication to an Alternate Authentication Protocol?
The process for switching from Basic Authentication to an alternate authentication protocol varies depending on the application or service you are using. Microsoft has provided detailed instructions and guidance on how to switch from Basic Authentication to an alternate authentication protocol in their documentation.
Conclusion
The deprecation of Basic Authentication in Exchange Online is an important security update that will ensure users of Exchange Online are able to access the service using the most secure authentication protocols. If you are currently using Basic Authentication to access Exchange Online, you will need to switch to an alternate authentication protocol such as OAuth, OpenID Connect, or SAML before May 2022. Microsoft has provided detailed instructions on how to switch from Basic Authentication to an alternate authentication protocol in their documentation.
References:
Basic Authentication Deprecation in Exchange Online – May 2022 Update
