The end of basic authentication by Microsoft

by | Nov 28, 2022 | Blog, Security

Most businesses are using some kind of Microsoft application, so if you are not aware of the changes to how you and your staff login, this will be of interest to you.  This blog explains what the end of basic authentication means for you.

What is changing and when:

As of October 2022, you will no longer be able to use the Basic Authentication feature of Microsoft.

If you currently use Microsoft Exchange Online (MEO), Exchange Web Services (EWS), Exchange ActiveSync (EAS), POP, IMAP, Remote PowerShell, MAPI, RPC, SMTP AUTH and OAB, this will affect you.

If you need help with the end of basic authentication, please contact us today.

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    What is basic authentication in exchange online:

    Basic Authentication is a function that requires a username and password in order to login to Exchange Online. Any apps configured to this feature will use this.

    Why are Microsoft stopping this login feature:

    Unfortunately, attackers can easily capture user login details via Basic Authentication, which makes it a security risk. It is outdated in terms of industry standards and doesn’t even work with multiple factor authentication (MFA) to help double up against attacks.

    How will this affect me and my business:

    If you currently have Basic Authentication enabled in Microsoft Exchange Online (MEO), Exchange Web Services (EWS), Exchange ActiveSync (EAS), POP, IMAP, Remote PowerShell, MAPI, RPC, SMTP AUTH, OAB, Outlook for Windows or Mac, you won’t be able to use it anymore. This means, you’ll need to change how you log on to these applications.

    So what do I have to do?

    Modern Authentication is set to be the replacement.

    As well as improved security benefits, Modern Authentication also allows MFA. Users will need to use a password manager such as PassPortal, along with something like DUO, which sends login notifications direct to mobile devices. Changing and managing passwords will be much easier with these, alongside the added security.

    If you would like to know more about IT security for your business, please clic on the link for a free video guide.

    If you would like to talk to us about how PassPortal and DUO can help your business stay secure

    Please click here to contact us