Hybrid Exchange
Hybrid Exchange is a Microsoft deployment model that integrates on-premises Exchange Server with Microsoft 365 Exchange Online, enabling organizations to maintain some mailboxes on-premises while moving others to the cloud. It provides a unified email environment with shared features like calendar, contacts, and global address list across both infrastructures. This setup is managed through tools like the Hybrid Configuration Wizard and requires components like Exchange servers, Azure AD Connect, and secure mail routing.
Developers and IT professionals should learn Hybrid Exchange when migrating from on-premises Exchange to Microsoft 365 in phases, as it allows gradual mailbox moves without disrupting user experience. It's essential for organizations with compliance or data residency requirements that necessitate keeping some data on-premises, while leveraging cloud scalability for other users. Use cases include large enterprises with complex email systems, government agencies, or businesses undergoing digital transformation.