Changes to Microsoft 365 access for some at affiliated institutions

A limited number of HMS community members from affiliated institutions will experience changes in Microsoft 365 access, with desktop apps becoming unavailable on computers that aren't managed by Harvard starting July 31. Online versions will remain accessible.

Key dates for affected Microsoft 365 desktop app users:

  1. June 1 – The deactivation date banner appears in Microsoft desktop apps.
  2. July 1 – Desktop apps enter read-only mode.
  3. July 31 – Desktop app access is revoked; online versions are still accessible.
     

For more information and support, visit the Microsoft 365 Support website or contact HMS IT at 617-432-2000 or itservicedesk@hms.harvard.edu.

More information

Why must I use the online version of Microsoft 365? 

New security guidelines prohibit installation of Microsoft desktop apps on  computers that are not managed by Harvard. Those working on a computer not managed by Harvard can only access the online versions of Microsoft apps. 

Some affiliated institutions may provide independent licenses for desktop access to Microsoft 365 apps. Check with your home institution's IT department for more information.

How do I access files on my desktop through the Microsoft 365 online apps? 

We recommend uploading important files to the online OneDrive storage before losing access to the desktop apps. This keeps your files safe and ready to use with the online Microsoft 365 apps. To do this, follow Microsoft's guide on uploading and saving files and folders to OneDrive

How will this affect my HMS mailbox?  

You will continue to have access to your HMS mailbox through Microsoft 365 online.  The mailbox limit for Microsoft 365 online is 50GB.  For more information on archiving mail and reducing the size of your mailbox, visit the managing email storage with online archive mailboxes article.  

How do I access Microsoft 365 online? 

To access Microsoft 365 online: 

  1. Visit the Harvard sign-in page
  2. Sign in using your HMS account ID credentials. 

After signing in, you will see your inbox and access the available online Microsoft 365 apps. 

Additional resources