Modern Authentication Frequently Asked Questions

    1. Why is Microsoft ending support for Basic Authentication?

Although it is simple to set up and use, Basic Authentication makes it easier for attackers to capture users’ login information and increases the chance of this login being used to access multiple systems. For more information, visit the Microsoft announcement.

    1. When will Basic Authentication be removed from the University Office 365?

As of March 28, 2021, Basic Authentication was removed from nearly all devices.

    1. How do I update my device(s) to Modern Authentication?
  • Update your email application, and operating system if needed, to a version that supports Modern Authentication. (See question 4 and 5 for supported list and instructions.)
  • Repeat this step for every device where you access your email, such as laptops, desktops, smartphones, and tablets
  • Once your email access has been updated to Modern Authentication, please contact SSCS so we can turn off Basic Authentication for your account.
    1. What devices and email applications support Modern Authentication?

The following operating system versions and email applications support Modern Authentication.

Device Type Operating System Version Email Application
Windows 8.0 or later Outlook 2016
Outlook 2019
Outlook – Office 365
Windows 10 Mail
Thunderbird V78 or later
Mac 10.14 or later Apple Mail
Outlook 2019 for Mac
Outlook for Mac – Office 365
10.13 or earlier Thunderbird v78 or later
iOS (iPhone, iPad) 11.3.1 or earlier Apple Mail
Outlook for iOS
Android 8.0 or later Outlook for Android
Linux — Outlook on the web
    1. How do I find the email application or operating system on a device?

Windows Outlook application
Start Outlook.
On the Help menu, click About Microsoft Office Outlook.
Confirm the Outlook application on your computer supports Modern Authentication.

Mac Outlook application
Open Outlook.
On the menu bar, choose Outlook (next to the Apple logo). If you don’t see your menu bar, move your mouse to the top of your screen and it will appear.
Choose About Outlook.
Confirm the Outlook application on your computer supports Modern Authentication.

iOS version
Locate and open the Settings app.
Tap General.
Tap About.
Note the current iOS version is listed by Version.

Android version
Open your phone’s Settings app.
Near the bottom, tap System Advanced. System update.
See your “Android version” and “Security patch level.”
(Note: Android settings vary by phone manufacturer. If these instructions don’t apply to your phone, please visit your phone manufacturer for instructions for your specific device.)

    1. What happens if a device isn’t updated to Modern Authentication before March 28?

The Outlook email application (or other email application) using Basic Authentication will no longer be able to send or receive Office 365 email.

    1. Will I lose all access to email if I do not upgrade to Modern Authentication by the deadline?

No, even if you don’t do anything and the Outlook application on your device stops working, you will still be able to access email via Outlook on the web at outlook.office.com.

    1. I have a University issued laptop that I use to check my email. How do I change it?

If you have a managed device that is leased and managed by IT Services, please contact the Service Desk. They will work with Desktop Support to ensure the device is using Modern Authentication.

    1. How can I determine which application is using Basic Authentication?

It’s recommended that you create a list of the devices and applications that you use to access Office 365 email. This will ensure all your devices are properly updated from Basic Authentication before it is removed.

    1. How does this change affect shared mailboxes?

Any application accessing a shared University mailbox must be updated to support Modern Authentication.

    1. What should I do after updating my devices and applications to Modern Authentication?

Once your email access has been updated to Modern Authentication, please contact SSCS so we can turn off Basic Authentication for your account.

    1. Who should I contact for support?

If you come across any trouble, please submit a ticket with SSCS. A technician will reach out in a timely manner to help apply an appropriate fix.