What is Modern Authentication in Microsoft 365?
Modern Authentication in Microsoft 365 uses OAuth 2.0-based authentication to provide secure access to Microsoft services. Unlike Basic Authentication, which sends username and password credentials directly, Modern Authentication uses access tokens issued through Microsoft Entra ID.
Modern Authentication uses the Microsoft sign-in experience and does not require applications to store Microsoft 365 account credentials. Users authenticate through Microsoft and approve the required application permissions. It also supports security features such as multi-factor authentication (MFA) and Conditional Access policies.
Modern Authentication vs Basic Authentication
| Authentication Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Basic Authentication | Uses username and password credentials directly for application access. Microsoft has moved away from this method for many Microsoft 365 services due to security limitations. |
| Modern Authentication | Uses OAuth 2.0 token-based authentication through Microsoft Entra ID and supports modern security controls such as MFA. |
How Modern Authentication Works in Microsoft 365
The authentication process uses OAuth 2.0 to authorize applications to access Microsoft 365 resources:
- The application requests authentication from Microsoft Entra ID.
- The user signs in using the Microsoft authentication page.
- Microsoft validates the identity and requested permissions.
- An access token is issued for authorized access to Microsoft 365 resources.
- The application uses the token to connect without storing user credentials.
Modern Authentication Requirements for Office 365 Migration
Before connecting Microsoft 365 accounts for migration, administrators should verify authentication requirements, permissions, and application configuration. EdbMails supports OAuth-based Microsoft 365 authentication through the following methods:
Troubleshooting Modern Authentication Issues
Authentication problems during Microsoft 365 migration can occur due to configuration or permission-related issues. Common areas to check include:
- Incorrect application permissions or missing admin consent.
- Conditional Access policies blocking application access.
- Incorrect application ID or registration details.
- Insufficient Microsoft 365 administrative permissions.
Using Modern Authentication with EdbMails
EdbMails uses Modern Authentication to connect securely to Microsoft 365 environments during supported migration scenarios. Administrators can configure authentication based on their environment using automatic or manual application registration.
