Microsoft starts the countdown for the end of Exchange Web Services

(Image credit: Shutterstock / monticello)

EWS doesn't deliver security, scale and reliability to today's standards
It will be shut down for cloud environments from April 2027
'Scream tests' will help show any dependencies

Microsoft has confirmed it will be phasing out Exchange Web Services (EWS) for Microsoft 365 and Exchange Online after nearly two decades of services, and we've been given all the key dates.

As soon as October 2026, the company will disable EWS by default for Exchange Online tenants, with the final shutdown set for April 1, 2027.

Microsoft stressed that the change only applies to M365 and Exchange Online cloud environments, but that EWS will continue to work for on-prem Exchange Servers.

Exchange Web Services set for retirement in 2027

The company explained the reason behind phasing out EWS is that it was built nearly 20 years ago, and that it no longer meets modern security, scale and reliability needs. By retiring Exchange Web Services, Microsoft can reduce the legacy attack surface.

"If you proactively configure an Allow List and set EWSEnabled to True by the end of August 2026, your tenant will be excluded from the October 1 automatic change to EWSEnabled=False," Microsoft shared in a post explaining the disabling process for EWS.

Admins can also re-enable EWS after it's blocked by default after the October 2026 milestone – though temporarily, because the April 2027 shutdown remains firmed.

In the meantime, the company promises to send admins monthly Message Center posts with summaries and reminders.

Furthermore, some disruptions may come from Microsoft's 'scream tests', designed to temporarily shut down EWS services to highlight any dependencies ahead of the major milestones.

In a separate FAQs section at the bottom of the page, Microsoft confirmed that there would be no exceptions to the April 2027 deadline, underscoring the importance of getting ready ahead of time.

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With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the decarbonisation of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value!

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