479748 – Outlook: Support Import and Export of S/MIME digital certificates in New Outlook for Windows (archived)

Product:

Outlook, Windows

Platform:

US Instances, Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

Launched

Change type:

Links:

Details:

Users who do not have S/MIME digital certificates installed now can use Import functionality to install S/MIME certificate files into their Windows machine. Similarly, Export functionality can be used to export S/MIME certificates with new password. #newoutlookforwindows

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2025-02-26

updated:
2025-03-13

Docu to Check

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MS workload name

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

S/MIME Certificate Management
Without proper preparation, users may face difficulties in managing S/MIME certificates, leading to potential security vulnerabilities and inability to send encrypted emails.
   - roles: IT Support, End Users
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/10/01/outlook-support-import-and-export-of-s-mime-digital-certificates-in-new-outlook-for-windows/

User Experience Disruption
The introduction of new import/export functionalities without adequate training may confuse users, resulting in increased support requests and decreased productivity.
   - roles: IT Support, End Users
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2023/10/01/outlook-support-import-and-export-of-s-mime-digital-certificates-in-new-outlook-for-windows/

Configutation Options**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

The new Outlook for Windows has introduced a feature that allows users to import and export S/MIME digital certificates. This might sound technical, but think of it like managing keys for a secure mailbox.

Imagine you have a special lock on your mailbox that requires a unique key to open. This key ensures that only you can access the mail inside. In the digital world, S/MIME certificates act like these keys, securing your emails so that only you and the intended recipient can read them.

Previously, if you wanted to use these digital keys, you had to go through a more complex process to get them onto your computer. Now, with the new Outlook update, you can easily import these keys onto your Windows machine, much like downloading a key to your mailbox from a secure website.

Similarly, if you need to share your key with someone else or move it to another computer, you can export it. This is like making a copy of your mailbox key and setting a new password to ensure it's still secure.

This update makes it simpler for users to manage their email security without needing to dive deep into technical details. It's about making sure your digital communications remain private and secure, much like keeping your physical mail safe from prying eyes.