Preparing for Outlook Modern Authentication: What You Need to Know

Are you a student, faculty member, or staff at Stanford who uses Office 365 to access your email and online services? If so, you're likely aware that the university is making a significant change to enhance the security of your account. Starting now, two-step authentication will be required for all methods of accessing your email.

This change affects current users of Office 365 email, calendars, and other associated online services. Don't worry; your account won't be affected if you access your Outlook email through a web browser using Webmail, the web-based email client for Office 365.

In recent years, companies like Apple, Microsoft, and Google have updated their applications and operating systems to support modern authentication methods when checking email, including two-step authentication. However, until now, this two-step authentication has been optional on Stanford email accounts due to limitations in third-party software that supports email at Stanford.

Stanford uses two-step authentication to protect your SUNet ID and password by asking you to verify your identity using input from another device such as a mobile phone or security token, or through Cardinal Key. To enable this feature, all synced information including email, calendars, contacts, and more will be updated. This change ensures that you can access your email securely from any device.

University IT (UIT) now requires two-step authentication when accessing your Stanford email account through Office 365. This change is designed to provide an additional layer of security for your account, ensuring that your personal information remains protected.

For those who use Google Mail (through G Suite) to access their email, details on how to prepare for this change are coming soon. In the meantime, rest assured that your account will not be affected by this update.

Stay ahead of the curve and learn more about Outlook modern authentication at . By embracing this new technology, Stanford is committed to providing a secure and seamless experience for all users. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to University IT (UIT) for assistance.