How to Access Exchange Webmail

Microsoft Exchange Webmail, also known as Outlook Web Access, provides a way for users to access group or company email from a web browser. The interface is similar to a Microsoft Exchange user mailbox in Outlook. Exchange Webmail must be set up on the company's servers so that users can access it. Get instructions for configuring Outlook Web Access and learn how to access Exchange Webmail to take advantage of this convenient browser-based service.

EditSteps

Set Up Exchange Webmail

1. 1
   Determine what version of Exchange Server is running. Instructions for configuration vary between different versions. For best results, read Microsoft knowledge base articles and instructions for setting up and troubleshooting webmail.
2. 2
   Restrict users from using Outlook Web Access, if desired. Right click the user account in Active Directory. Click properties, than click the Exchange Features tab. Click on Outlook Web Access, and disable it.
3. 3
   Set up a domain name for your Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP) server.
4. 4
   Create a recipient policy. The policy should deny access to clients outside your network. In Active Directory, apply the recipient policy to accounts who are granted access.
5. 5
   Add an HTTP virtual server on the front end server. Ensure that it specifies the domain name given in the recipient policy.
6. 6
   Enable forms-based authentication. This will allow you to create a login page for users to access email. Make sure the default domains match on the front-end and back-end servers, including any backslashes. Open Exchange System Manager and expand administrative groups, servers, protocols and HTTP. Right click "Exchange Virtual Server" and click "Properties." On the settings table, enable forms based authentication and choose a level of compression.

Access Exchange Webmail

1. 1
   Understand the limitations of Outlook Web Access. Have an idea of what to expect so that you are prepared the first time you log on. Most of the standard features available on Outlook are not available, including spell check, addressing auto-resolve, calendar and folders. The interface looks different than Outlook; there is no reading pane, drag and drop or message flagging options.
2. 2
   Get your login information. Your network administrator or IT department can provide this information along with support to teach you how to access Exchange Webmail. Normally your login and password is the same as your regular network login information.
3. 3
   Open your browser. Make sure your Internet connection is active and the computer is online.
4. 4
   Type in your Outlook Web Access domain name. This is most often the url of your company, followed by "/exchange," but this varies depending on the version of exchange server.
5. 5
   Wait for the login screen to appear. This is a page with the Outlook logo and a field to enter your login name.
6. 6
   Enter your username. Click the "click here" link, and then enter your password.
7. 7
   Login again on the network password box. Enter the name of your company domain followed by "/" and your user id. Enter your password.