Microsoft will enable accepted domains in Exchange Online by default starting October 1. In September, Microsoft will clarify how customers can delay the change for a while longer.

Starting October 1, 2024, Microsoft will begin gradually implementing IPv6 as the standard for accepted domains within Exchange Online. Introduced back in 1995 as an alternative to the still ubiquitous IPv4, IPv6 has a wide variety of addresses. Eventually, the Internet will outgrow IPv4’s ability to generate unique addresses.

IPv offers other benefits besides capacity, including routing. Despite all this, the adoption of IPv6 has been extremely slow. By making IPv6 the standard for Exchange Online, Microsoft is now taking an important step.

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As a user, the transition may require a little action. Allow networkFor example, lists need to be updated to include IPv6. Microsoft explains in more detail which addresses you need to add here.

Receiving anonymous inbound emails over IPv6 is still possible, but an administrator must also make minor adjustments. Microsoft explains this process here.

As always, organizations may have special circumstances that prevent them from making the transition. Microsoft is taking this into account. The switch will not be mandatory, but Microsoft will not communicate what you need to do to opt out until September.