Microsoft Introduces Enhanced Message Trace in Exchange Online
Microsoft has officially launched the new Message Trace feature within the Exchange Admin Center (EAC) for its Exchange Online customers globally. The rollout began in mid-June and is expected to conclude by the end of July. This update promises significant improvements for administrators tracking email flow within Microsoft 365.
Understanding the New Message Trace Tool
The revamped Message Trace functionality allows administrators to monitor the journey of emails as they navigate through their Microsoft 365 environment. It provides clear insights into whether emails have been received, rejected, or deferred, thereby serving as a crucial tool for diagnosing mail flow issues and validating policy adjustments.
To access the new feature, administrators should navigate to the following path: Exchange Admin Center > Mail Flow > Message Trace. Throughout the Public Preview phase, user feedback has been positive, and Microsoft encourages ongoing input via Exchange Admin Center > Give Feedback.
Transitioning from the Old to the New Message Trace
While the old Message Trace interface will be maintained for a few months to aid the transition, it is essential for users to be aware that its deprecation will commence for worldwide customers on September 1. Concurrently, the Reporting Webservice support for Message Trace data will also begin to phase out on this date.
It is important to note that this timeline is specific to the worldwide environment and does not impact GCC, GCC-High, DOD, or other sovereign clouds. Detailed information regarding transitions for these environments will be available later in the year.
Implications for Administrators and IT Professionals
Exchange Online administrators and IT professionals will be directly affected by these changes, particularly those responsible for managing mail flow and troubleshooting email delivery issues. It’s crucial for these individuals to transition to the new Message Trace tool well before deprecated features become inactive.
Additionally, scripts utilizing the older cmdlets like Get-MessageTrace or Get-MessageTraceDetail will cease to function starting September 1. Admins must revise their scripts to use the updated Get-MessageTraceV2 and Get-MessageTraceDetailV2 cmdlets to avoid disruptions.
Moreover, those relying on the Reporting Webservice for accessing Message Trace data will also need to make adjustments by switching to the new PowerShell cmdlets associated with the updated Message Trace feature.
Reasons Behind the Change
Microsoft’s development of the new Message Trace experience has focused on integrating feedback gained from the Public Preview to enhance both its design and functionality. This transition allows the company to solidify and modernize the administrative interfaces alongside the supporting technologies.
Key Considerations Moving Forward
Even though September 1 may appear distant, addressing deprecated components—such as scripts—requires prompt attention, as it may take time to resolve all issues effectively. Administrators should prioritize these updates to ensure smooth operational continuity.
In terms of resources, Microsoft has released a Public Preview document detailing the differences between the old and new versions. Additionally, documentation for the new Message Trace cmdlets is anticipated to be published in conjunction with the general availability update, so admins are advised to remain alert for these resources.
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