![Product transitions to the cloud.microsoft domain – February 2025 [MC1022524]](https://mwpro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/pexels-minan1398-1527255-1024x683.webp)
Message ID: MC1022524
The cloud.microsoft domain was provisioned in early 2023 to provide a unified, trusted, and dedicated DNS domain space to host Microsoft’s first-party authenticated SaaS products and experiences. This post is to inform admins that the following Microsoft products and scenarios are now available at the cloud.microsoft domain, in parallel with the previous domains.
Microsoft Places (https://places.cloud.microsoft/)
A full list of product experiences already being delivered on this domain can be found here: Unified cloud.microsoft domain for Microsoft 365 apps – Microsoft 365 Enterprise | Microsoft Learn.
[When this will happen:]
The services above are already available on cloud.microsoft, in parallel to their previous domains. You can expect the previous domains to be redirected to cloud.microsoft in the coming months.
[How this will affect your organization:]
- The cloud.microsoft domain has been a part of standard Microsoft network guidance on domains and service endpoints since April 2023. If you are currently following this guidance, this change should not impact users in your organization using the above applications under the new domain.
- Users will be redirected to applications under cloud.microsoft domains gradually and automatically. No specific user action is required. Links to the previous domains are backwards compatible and continue to be supported. Users may notice that the new application domains are lacking the “.com” extension. This is by design, as “.microsoft” is Microsoft’s own top-level domain – and this exclusivity allows for additional security and protection against spoofing
[What you need to do to prepare:]
- Educate users to recognize and expect cloud.microsoft as a key domain for Microsoft cloud experiences. You can refer them to What is cloud.microsoft? – Microsoft Support for more information.
- If your organizational websites, tools, or other materials reference the old URL, those links will be automatically redirected. However, it would be good practice to update those assets to avoid user confusion.
- Partner with developers of in-house Teams apps – including those that run on Outlook and Microsoft 365 – to take the actions described in Action required: ensure your Microsoft Teams apps are ready for upcoming domain changes so the apps continue to function on the new domain.
- Admins should ensure that connections to *.cloud.microsoft are not blocked from their clients and enterprise networks. This should require no action if standard Microsoft network guidance on domains and service endpoints is being followed.
Source: Microsoft
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The transition to the cloud.microsoft domain is set to make waves in both admin and user experiences come February 2025, and it’s worth taking a moment to unpack how this change will ripple through organizations.
For admins, the move to a unified domain is akin to finally getting that long-awaited office upgrade – everything is streamlined, efficient, and just a bit more sophisticated. With the cloud.microsoft domain, admins can expect enhanced security features that come with Microsoft’s own top-level domain. This means less worrying about spoofing and more focus on what really matters – keeping systems running smoothly. Plus, the automatic redirection to the new domain means that there’s minimal disruption; it’s like having a moving company that takes care of everything while you sip your coffee!
On the user side, the changes are designed for a seamless experience. Users will be redirected to applications under the new domain without lifting a finger. The only thing they might notice is a slight adjustment in the URL structure. However, with a little education on recognizing the cloud.microsoft domain, users can feel secure in their interactions with Microsoft’s applications. It’s a bit like teaching them to recognize the new office coffee machine – once they know it’s there, they’ll be well on their way to enjoying their favorite brew.
The impact of these changes is likely to be significant, fostering a more secure and reliable environment for collaboration and productivity. However, it’s important for both admins and users to stay informed and prepared. So, let’s keep the conversation rolling! What do you think about this change? Are there any concerns or insights you’d like to share? Join the discussion below, and let’s see how this cloud transition unfolds together!
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