What does the Hybrid Configuration Wizard do?
Microsoft describes a hybrid deployment as a link between Exchange on premises and Exchange Online for coexistence or for a move to the cloud. The wizard automates that setup.
| Point | Detail |
|---|---|
| Tool | Hybrid Configuration wizard |
| Setup types | Full hybrid or minimal hybrid |
| Used for | Coexistence or mailbox migration |
| Needs | Global Administrator in Microsoft 365 |
What do You Need Before You Start?
Microsoft lists these requirements.
- Start the wizard from a domain joined computer with remote PowerShell access to a Client Access or Mailbox server.
- Use Exchange 2016 CU8 or later, or Exchange 2013 CU15 or later, as the source for the wizard.
- Use a browser that handles ClickOnce, like the latest Microsoft Edge.
- Use an on premises account with the hybrid permissions and a Microsoft 365 Global Administrator account.
- Add at least one accepted domain to Microsoft 365.
- Install a commercial CA certificate on the Mailbox server.
Microsoft advises that you test with the Remote Connectivity Analyzer first. Active Directory synchronization takes significant time, so plan it early.
How do You Configure Hybrid With the Wizard?
Method #1: Full Hybrid Configuration (Free)
Who it suits. Admins who need both sides to work together. Extra application. The wizard from aka.ms/hybridwizard.
- Download the wizard from aka.ms/hybridwizard, then select Install and Run.
- Confirm the on premises Exchange organization and the Microsoft 365 environment.
- Enter the on premises account and the Global Administrator account.
- Select Full Hybrid Configuration, and add Organization Configuration Transfer if you want a one time copy of settings.
- Select Use Exchange Classic Hybrid Topology to retain on premises mailboxes.
- Choose the transport certificate and enter the external organization FQDN.
- Select Update and close the wizard when it finishes.
Exchange 2010 servers add a Federation Trust step that asks for TXT records in public DNS.
Method #2: Minimal Hybrid (Free)
Who it suits. Admins who want a short move with directory sync. Extra application. Microsoft Entra Connect.
Microsoft documents this option. Install Microsoft Entra Connect with express settings, assign licenses and test with two or three mailboxes.
How do You Check That Hybrid Works?
- Use Get-HybridConfiguration in the Exchange Management Shell.
- Read the Update-HybridConfiguration log on the Mailbox server.
- Move a test mailbox to Exchange Online.
- Test free and busy sharing and mail flow between both sides.
Follow the Exchange Online migration checklist for licenses and DNS. Compare the paths in our cutover vs staged vs hybrid guide. Version guides explain Exchange 2016 and Exchange 2010.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Hybrid Configuration Wizard do?
It configures a link between Exchange on premises and Exchange Online for coexistence or migration.
Where do You Download the Wizard?
Microsoft lists aka.ms/hybridwizard as the download address.
Which Exchange Versions can Start the Wizard?
Microsoft lists Exchange 2016 CU8 or later and Exchange 2013 CU15 or later.
Which Accounts do You Need?
An on premises account with hybrid permissions and a Microsoft 365 Global Administrator account.
Do You Need a Certificate?
Yes. Microsoft requires a commercial CA certificate on the Mailbox server for protected transport.
How do You Check the Result?
Use Get-HybridConfiguration, read the log and move a test mailbox.
What is Minimal Hybrid?
It is a shorter option that uses directory sync and a few settings for a short mailbox move.
Author's Verdict
Check versions, the certificate and the accepted domain before you start the wizard.
Test a mailbox move and mail flow before you move users in bulk.
Key Takeaways
- The wizard needs a Global Administrator account.
- Commercial certificates protect hybrid transport.
- Test a mailbox move after setup.
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