Enabling XML Files in Outlook OWA/365: Is it Still Relevant?

Background

Exchange Web Services (EWS) is a feature in Microsoft Exchange Server that allows developers to build Web-based applications that interact with the Exchange Server. It was designed to extend the functionality of Microsoft Outlook by providing access to mailboxes, calendar events, and other Exchange Server features through XML.

Microsoft Outlook Web App (OWA) and Office 365 are web-based versions of Outlook that allow users to access their email, calendar, and contacts from any device with an internet connection. OWA and Office 365 support EWS, which means that developers can build web-based applications that interact with OWA and Office 365 using XML.

Enabling XML Files in Outlook OWA/365

To enable XML files in Outlook OWA/365, the following steps can be taken:

1. Create an XML application that conforms to the EWS schema.
2. Host the XML application on a web server.
3. Provide the URL of the XML application to the user.
4. The user opens the URL in a web browser and grants permission for the XML application to access their mailbox.

Is it Still Relevant?

The question of whether enabling XML files in Outlook OWA/365 is still relevant can be answered by looking at the following factors:

Use Cases

XML files can be used in a variety of use cases, such as:

• Automating the creation of calendar events and tasks
• Importing and exporting contacts
• Syncing mailbox data with other applications
• Creating custom email templates

Alternatives

There are alternatives to enabling XML files in Outlook OWA/365, such as:

• Using the Microsoft Graph API
• Using Outlook REST APIs
• Using the EWS Managed API

Considerations

When deciding whether to enable XML files in Outlook OWA/365, the following considerations should be taken:

• The level of complexity involved in creating an XML application
• The level of security required for the application
• The availability of alternatives and their ease of use

Enabling XML files in Outlook OWA/365 is still relevant, depending on the use case, the available alternatives, and the considerations involved. While there are alternatives to using XML files, XML files provide a level of flexibility and customization that may not be available with other methods.

References

• Start using Web Services in Exchange
• Get started with Exchange Web Services
• Microsoft