Microsoft Exchange Server

Microsoft_Exchange_(2019-present)

Microsoft Exchange Server is a mail server and calendar server developed by Microsoft. It runs exclusively on Windows Server operating systems. Exchange Server is used for email, calendar, contact management, and task management. It is a part of the Microsoft Servers line of products.

History

Microsoft Exchange Server was first introduced in 1996, replacing the earlier Microsoft Mail 3.5. The initial version was Exchange Server 4.0, which was followed by several major releases, including Exchange Server 5.0, 5.5, 2000, 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, and the latest version, Exchange Server 2019.

Features

Microsoft Exchange Server provides a variety of features, including:

• Email: Exchange Server supports SMTP, POP3, and IMAP protocols for email communication.
• Calendar: Users can schedule and manage appointments and meetings.
• Contacts: Centralized contact management.
• Tasks: Task management and tracking.
• Public Folders: Shared folders for collaboration.
• Outlook Web Access (OWA): Web-based access to email and other features.
• Mobile Device Support: Synchronization with mobile devices using ActiveSync.
• Unified Messaging: Integration of voicemail, email, and other messaging systems.

Architecture

Exchange Server architecture includes several key components:

• Mailbox Server: Stores mailboxes and public folders.
• Client Access Server: Handles all client connections to Exchange Server.
• Edge Transport Server: Provides anti-spam and anti-virus protection.
• Hub Transport Server: Routes mail within the Exchange organization.

Deployment

Exchange Server can be deployed on-premises or as part of a hybrid deployment with Microsoft 365. On-premises deployment requires a Windows Server operating system and can be configured in various topologies to meet organizational needs.

Security

Exchange Server includes several security features:

• Transport Layer Security (TLS) for secure email transmission.
• Data Loss Prevention (DLP) to protect sensitive information.
• Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) to manage permissions.
• Anti-spam and anti-malware protection.

Administration

Exchange Server administration can be performed using:

• Exchange Management Console (EMC)
• Exchange Admin Center (EAC)
• PowerShell with the Exchange Management Shell (EMS)

Related Pages

• Microsoft Outlook
• Microsoft 365
• Windows Server
• Active Directory
• SMTP
• POP3
• IMAP

See Also

• List of Microsoft software