Microsoft has this week announced that its Outlook.com email service will stop supporting its linked accounts feature and will expect users to replace their linked accounts with aliases.
Microsoft says that using aliases rather than linked accounts within their Outlook.com service is a much more secure way for users to use the system and multiple email addresses.
Transitioning from Linked Accounts to Aliases
In the next few days, Microsoft will start sending out emails to account holders explaining what needs to be done when they remove support for the linked accounts on their Outlook.com service. Microsoft’s Eric Doerr explains:
“There are a number of people who have more than one email address and want to manage these multiple email addresses from Outlook.com. Linked accounts were introduced in 2006 as a way to quickly switch between different accounts each with their own email address. Over the next couple months, we will stop supporting linked accounts and instead help people move to a more robust and secure way of managing multiple email addresses: aliases.”
The shift from linked accounts to aliases is part of Microsoft’s ongoing effort to enhance security and streamline user experience. Aliases allow users to manage multiple email addresses under a single account, making it easier to handle various aspects of their digital communication without the need to log in and out of different accounts. This method not only simplifies the process but also reduces the risk of unauthorized access.
Benefits of Using Aliases
Using aliases offers several advantages over linked accounts. Firstly, it provides a unified inbox where all emails from different addresses can be accessed in one place. This eliminates the hassle of switching between accounts and ensures that users do not miss important emails. Additionally, aliases can be used to create different identities for various purposes, such as work, personal use, or online subscriptions, without the need to create separate accounts.
Moreover, aliases enhance security by minimizing the number of login credentials that users need to manage. With fewer passwords to remember, the risk of password fatigue and potential security breaches is significantly reduced. Aliases also allow users to easily manage spam and unwanted emails by creating disposable email addresses that can be deleted if they become compromised.
For a full rundown on the reasons why Microsoft has removed the linked accounts feature in its Outlook.com service, jump over to the Microsoft Outlook Blog where a post from Eric Doerr explains everything you need to know.
Source: Microsoft
In conclusion, Microsoft’s decision to phase out linked accounts in favor of aliases is a strategic move aimed at enhancing user security and simplifying email management. By consolidating multiple email addresses under a single account, users can enjoy a more streamlined and secure email experience. As the transition takes place, Microsoft will provide guidance and support to ensure a smooth shift for all Outlook.com users.
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