check before: 2026-01-31
Product:
Exchange, Purview, Purview Communication Compliance, SharePoint
Platform:
Online, World tenant
Status:
Change type:
Feature update, Admin impact
Links:
Details:
Summary:
Starting January 31, 2026, admins must use Exchange Online PowerShell v3.9.0+ and include the -EnableSearchOnlySession parameter with Connect-IPPSession to run Data Lifecycle Management cmdlets. This change enhances security and affects specific retention compliance cmdlets, with no impact on Purview portal users.
Details:
Introduction
Connectivity changes between cmdlets and Microsoft 365 services like SharePoint and Exchange now require a new parameter for improved security and modern authentication. Starting Jan 31, 2026, Admins must use Exchange Online PowerShell v3.9.0 or later and include the -EnableSearchOnlySession parameter when running Connect-IPPSession to execute Data Lifecycle Management cmdlets.
When this will happen:
Enforcement begins January 31, 2026.
Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
Created:
2026-01-06
updated:
2026-01-06
Task Type
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Docu to Check
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MS How does it affect me
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summary for non-techies**
Starting January 31, 2026, IT administrators must use Exchange Online PowerShell version 3.9.0 or later and the -EnableSearchOnlySession parameter to access certain Microsoft Purview Data Lifecycle Management features, necessitating updates to scripts and processes managing data retention.
Direct effects for Operations**
PowerShell Cmdlet Compatibility
Admins may face disruptions in executing Data Lifecycle Management cmdlets if they do not update to PowerShell v3.9.0+ and include the required parameter, leading to potential delays in compliance tasks.
- roles: Compliance Admin, IT Administrator
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/compliance/data-lifecycle-management, https://learn.microsoft.com/powershell/exchange/exchange-online-powershell-v2?view=exchange-ps
Security Enhancements
Failure to implement the new security parameter may expose the organization to security vulnerabilities, as the cmdlets will not function as intended, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive data.
- roles: Security Officer, Compliance Admin
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/compliance/data-lifecycle-management, https://learn.microsoft.com/powershell/module/exchangepowershell/connect-ippsession?view=exchange-ps
Operational Efficiency
Without preparation, the change may lead to operational inefficiencies as admins may be unable to execute necessary compliance policies, resulting in potential data retention issues.
- roles: IT Administrator, Data Governance Officer
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/powershell/module/exchangepowershell/new-retentioncompliancepolicy?view=exchange-ps, https://learn.microsoft.com/powershell/module/exchangepowershell/set-retentioncompliancepolicy?view=exchange-ps
Configutation Options**
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Opportunities**
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Potentional Risks**
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Data Protection**
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IT Security**
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DPIA Draft**
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explanation for non-techies**
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** AI generated content. This information must be reviewed before use.
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Last updated 2 weeks ago ago
