Change to Microsoft email auto-archiving policy

From: Division of Information Technology 
 
We’d like to inform you of an important update from Microsoft that affects how email archiving works for mailboxes in Exchange Online.

Starting January 2026, Microsoft will implement a new threshold-based auto-archiving policy. Under this change, mailboxes will automatically begin archiving content once they reach 96 percent of their storage quota. This proactive approach is designed to prevent disruptions caused by full mailboxes and ensure continued access to email services.

How does this affect me?

• If your mailbox exceeds 96 percent capacity, older messages will be automatically moved to your online archive mailbox.
• This feature works independently from the time-based archiving feature (4 years for employees and 3 years for students). The time-based archiving feature will remain in effect.
• You do not need to take any action.

Where can I find more information? 

More information regarding Microsoft’s Auto-Archive feature can be found at Understanding the Exchange Online Auto-Expanding Archive.

For individual assistance or questions, contact 4Help IT Support online 4help.vt.edu or by phone at 540-231-4357.