How to Connect Exchange Online in PowerShell: Updated 2025 Guide

Connecting to Exchange Online using PowerShell is an essential task for administrators managing Microsoft 365 environments. As cloud infrastructures evolve, Microsoft has streamlined processes and introduced security enhancements that administrators must be aware of. This updated 2025 guide lays out the most current and secure methods for accessing Exchange Online via PowerShell, replacing older, deprecated approaches such as the Basic Authentication-based connection methods.

Prerequisites for Connecting to Exchange Online

Before initiating a connection, administrators must ensure the following prerequisites are in place:

Windows PowerShell 5.1 or the latest version of PowerShell 7+
Microsoft Exchange Online PowerShell module installed
Modern Authentication enabled, as Basic Authentication is no longer supported
Administrator-level credentials for the Microsoft 365 tenant

If you’re using Windows PowerShell 5.1, make sure to run PowerShell as an administrator and have the latest version of MSOnline and ExchangeOnlineManagement modules installed.

Step-by-Step: Connecting to Exchange Online with PowerShell (2025)

Step 1: Install the Exchange Online PowerShell V3 Module

To leverage the latest capabilities, use the V3 version of the Exchange Online PowerShell module. Run the following command:

Install-Module -Name ExchangeOnlineManagement -Force

This will install or update the module needed for connecting securely via Modern Authentication.

Step 2: Import the Module

After installation, import the module into your session:

Import-Module ExchangeOnlineManagement

Step 3: Connect Using Modern Authentication

For interactive login using Modern Authentication with MFA support, execute the following command:

Connect-ExchangeOnline -UserPrincipalName yourAdmin@yourdomain.com

This command will prompt for credentials and authentication via your organization’s configured MFA methods.

Connect Using Certificate-Based Authentication (Automation)

For unattended scripts or background jobs, Microsoft supports certificate-based authentication using Azure AD App Registrations. It’s ideal for automating Exchange Online tasks without requiring user interaction.

Once you’ve registered an application in Azure AD with the appropriate Exchange permissions and uploaded a certificate, use the below format:


Connect-ExchangeOnline -AppId <AppID> 
                       -CertificateThumbprint <Thumbprint> 
                       -Organization <tenant.onmicrosoft.com>

This method is secure and aligns with Microsoft’s security-first principles adopted in 2025 and beyond.

Disconnecting the Session

Once your administrative tasks are complete, it’s best practice to disconnect the session using:

Disconnect-ExchangeOnline -Confirm:$false

This helps free up sessions and maintain tenant security by closing unused connections.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

Ensure that PowerShell is running as Administrator
Verify that all required modules are updated to their latest versions
Firewall or proxy settings may hinder authentication—check connectivity
Check if your account has the necessary roles assigned in Exchange admin center

Benefits of Using Modern PowerShell Modules

Faster command output and robust data retrieval
Support for MFA and secure authentication flows
Cross-platform support including macOS and Linux environments
Improved automation capabilities for system integration

Using the latest Exchange Online PowerShell tools not only ensures compatibility with Microsoft’s evolving cloud platform but also helps administrators streamline operations and adhere to current security best practices.

FAQ

Q: Can I still use Basic Authentication to connect to Exchange Online?
A: No, Microsoft deprecated Basic Authentication for Exchange Online in October 2022. Modern Authentication is now required.
Q: What module do I need for Exchange Online PowerShell in 2025?
A: Use the ExchangeOnlineManagement PowerShell module, version 3 or higher, for latest features and security enhancements.
Q: Is it possible to connect non-interactively?
A: Yes, via certificate-based authentication using Azure AD app registration, suitable for background tasks and automation.
Q: How can I check my module version?
A: Run Get-Module ExchangeOnlineManagement to see the currently loaded version.
Q: What should I do if connection fails?
A: Confirm network access, update the module, check account permissions, and review tenant security policies.

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