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  • Writer's pictureRW Networks

OAuth - Now's the Time!

copy of an email message from Microsoft about updating sign-in technology

Does this email look familiar to you? Did you ignore it? File it for later? Not to worry, we are here to help break down the geek-speak into plain English. It's time to give your email sign-in a makeover, and here's the inside scoop on how to stay connected without breaking a sweat.


First things first, mark your calendars for September 16th, 2024 – it's the day your old email app might say "I can't even" if you don't update it. Microsoft is attempting to be that friend who's always looking out for you, making sure your personal info stays as private as your secret snack stash. They're phasing out the routine way of signing in with just a username and password because, let's face it, it's about as secure as an old-school hand written diary with a 'keep out' sticker.


So, what's the game plan? If you received an email about this (and let's be honest, you probably did if you're reading this), it means you're using an app that's a bit behind the times. No judgment, but it's time to level up to an app that knows the secret handshake – aka modern authentication methods also known as OAuth. OAuth, short for Open Authorization, is a standard protocol that allows you to grant websites or applications access to your information on other websites without sharing your passwords. This mechanism is widely used by companies like Microsoft, Google, and Apple to enable secure and convenient access to user data. Overall, OAuth enhances security and convenience across a wide variety of platforms by allowing secure access to your data without compromising your credentials.


Don't worry, Microsoft's got your back with free versions of Outlook for pretty much every device you own. Download it, set it up, and you'll be emailing like a boss in no time.


But what if you're a rebel at heart and love your non-Microsoft email app? Fear not! Those apps have their own way of doing the modern sign-in dance. You might need to play detective and contact the app creators for the details, or fingers crossed it may be as easy as re-installing the latest version of the app.


Of course, we understand this may be totally intimidating and overwhelming, so rest assured RW Networks is here to help. Let’s keep it secure, keep it updated, and keep on emailing!




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