How to open and use a shared mailbox in Outlook Web App (OWA)

14th May 201514th May 2015 Graeme D Anderson

When you access your Office 365 Outlook Web App http://outlook.office365.com (more commonly known as OWA) you will not have access to your shared mailbox folders by default and need to add these to your OWA profile.

To add the shared mailbox so it displays under your primary mailbox in Outlook Web App follow the below steps.

This method is recommended if you want to monitor the email from your primary mailbox and the shared mailbox at the same time. In addition, after you complete this task, the shared mailbox and its folders are displayed in the left navigation pane each time you open Outlook Web App.

– Sign in to your account in Outlook Web App.

– Right-click your primary mailbox in the left navigation pane, and then choose add shared folder. * Top tip – you may need to click on the ‘more’ button to expand your mailbox!

– In the add shared folder dialog box, type the name or email address of the shared mailbox, and then click add.

The shared mailbox displays in your Folder list in Outlook Web App. You can expand or collapse the shared mailbox folders as you can with your primary mailbox. You also can remove the shared mailbox from your Folder list.

– To remove it, right-click the shared mailbox, and then click delete.

To send email from the shared mailbox using Outlook Web App:

– Click new mail above the folder list. A new message form opens in the reading pane.

– Click the more options icon ( … ) and then select ‘Show From’. This option shows you that the people who receive the email message will see that it comes from the shared mailbox and not from your own email account. Simply type the address you wish the email to be sent as. NB you must have the ‘send as’ permission to be able to do this. If you do not please contact your Office 365 system administrator. The first time you enter the address Outlook Web App searches for that address. In the future, the name is cached so it resolves quickly.

– Complete the email and then send as normal.

Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Support to End in July 2015

9th May 20158th May 2015 Graeme D Anderson

Microsoft will no longer issue security updates for any version of Windows Server 2003, after July 14th 2015. If you are still running Windows Server 2003, you need to take steps now to plan and execute a migration strategy to protect your infrastructure.

By migrating to Windows Server 2012 R2 essentials or Office 365, you can achieve concrete benefits, including improved performance, reduced maintenance requirements, and increased agility and speed of response to the business.

What Are The Risks?

Newly discovered security holes will remain available for cyber-criminals to exploit. That’s a big risk, as servers don’t just host a company’s private information, but also that of customers. And a company could face legal risks for not properly protecting that data.

What Happens If Systems Aren’t Upgraded?

The software will still work, but security vulnerabilities won’t be patched. As time goes on, the risk will get worse. As more and more unpatched vulnerabilities are discovered, criminals will exploit these – causing disruption and usually unexpected financial cost.

This year alone, Microsoft has issued 32 security patches for its Windows Server operating systems.

Moving Into the Cloud

We currently offer a range of cloud computing services to businesses in Aberdeen, Scotland and throughout the UK. For the majority of businesses, a move to Microsoft Office 365 will deliver all the Office applications you know and use on a daily basis, with ongoing updates, additional software such as Microsoft Skype for Business, and a reliable cloud based email platform.

We would typically recommenced combining Office 365 with a cloud storage solution for company files. There are a number of benefits of using cloud storage, including automated backups, access from anywhere with an internet connection and file revisions should you need to restore a file which has been accidentally deleted.

However, full cloud migration may not be an option for every business using Microsoft Windows Server 2003. There are situations where a business will need to maintain an onsite server to take advantage of active directory in order to provide users with varying access permissions for files and folders.

Microsoft Server 2012 R2 Essentials is also a viable option when used in combination with Office 365 for those wishing to upgrade from Server 2003 and maintain an on site infrastructure with the same file and folder permissions for users, with the added peace of mind and hassle free managed that using a cloud solution for email and applications provides.

If your business is currently using Microsoft Windows Server 2003 and you’d like some advice on upgrade options, why not get in touch and arrange a consultation. Complete our contact form, or call our Aberdeen office number on (01224) 914800.

Hosted Email Services Control Panel

27th April 201530th April 2015 Graeme D Anderson

Do you have an email account provided by boxportable? Have you ever wondered how to access your mailbox control panel?

You can now do so at the following URL: https://admin.livemail.co.uk

Simply log in with your current email address and mailbox password. From here you can:

Change your email password
Create auto-reply messages
Manage email settings
Delete old email

However as always if you have any other issues that require our assistance please contact us as normal and we will do our best to assist.

Lync is now Skype for Business

22nd April 20154th May 2015 Graeme D Anderson

Microsoft Lync is now Skype for Business. The latest addition to the Microsoft Office 365 family, Skype for Business connects people everywhere to do more together.

Meetings, messaging and more. This is a great time to take a look at what Skype for Business offers.

Skype for Business is ideal for scheduling and running online meetings. Attendees can join from their computers, tablets or phones. You can use video to connect and get on the same page or quickly trade IMs with your project team. Skype for Business makes communication easy and makes you more productive.

Available separately or as part of your Office 365 subscription Skype for Business is a great business communication tool.