Disabling ActiveSync 16.0 Support on Exchange Online

January 15th 2026

Microsoft has announced that, starting from March 1st, 2026, access to Exchange Online using ActiveSync versions earlier than 16.1 will no longer be allowed.

This change is related to security requirements and affects all Exchange Online tenants, including the University’s.

 

ActiveSync is a protocol primarily used to synchronize on mobile devices and third-party applications (for example, non-Microsoft mail apps on smartphones and tablets):

  • email;
  • calendar;
  • contacts.

 

The deactivation only affects devices and clients using ActiveSync version 16.0 or earlier.

Clients compatible with ActiveSync 16.1 will continue to function normally.

In particular, the following may be affected:

  • smartphones or tablets with outdated mail applications;
  • third-party clients that are no longer maintained;
  • legacy configurations no longer supported by the manufacturer.

Starting March 1st, 2026:

  • devices using ActiveSync < 16.1 will no longer be able to synchronize with Exchange Online;
  • access to email, calendar, and contacts through these clients will be automatically blocked by Microsoft servers.

Since mobile device configurations may vary, there is no single solution that applies to all cases.

It is recommended to:

  • update the device operating system;
  • update the email application in use;
  • verify that the client supports ActiveSync version 16.1.

Alternatively, you can use one of the fully supported access methods.

Supported Access Methods to Exchange Online

The University guarantees access to Exchange Online through the following methods:

 

desktop and mobile, Android and iOS

 
Immagine
icona di mail

Client IMAP con autenticazione OAuth2

email access only

 
Immagine
icona di mail

Client compatibili con ActiveSync versione 16.1

Updated instructions for configuring University email are available in the Service Catalog – Email Services.

For further clarifications or assistance, you can contact the University IT Service Desk.

 

Who is intended for

 
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icona docenti

Faculty

 
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Students