What is Exchange ActiveSync?

Exchange ActiveSync allows PDAs (personal digital assistants) to synchronize data with Exchange mailboxes. Synchronizing email, calendar, and contacts requires a PDA that can connect to the Internet. This connection can be directly from the device using Wi-Fi or via a cellular network.

Traditional connections to a network-connected computer synchronize via the desktop ActiveSync client using the cradle, USB, infrared, or Bluetooth. Exchange ActiveSync is an additional server-based synchronization agent that removes the dependency on a desktop computer, using the wireless capability of the device. The two methods of ActiveSync can be used in combination or independently.

Exchange ActiveSync is supported on Microsoft Pocket PC 2003 SE with the Messaging and Security Feature Pack installed, and Windows Mobile 5.0 and later devices. Supported Palm devices include any Palm 700 series (Windows Mobile or Palm OS), and 650P or 680 with Palm OS. Other software applications will allow some devices to use Exchange ActiveSync; check with the manufacturer of your device for verification of Microsoft's Direct Push technology. Your device must be properly configured to connect to the Internet before using Exchange ActiveSync. VPN is not required for Exchange ActiveSync. For a list of supported devices, see Microsoft's Exchange Server 2007 Support for Mobile Devices.

Note: Indiana University's Exchange 2007 environment does not support the Always Up To Date feature using SMS (text) messaging. For similar functionality, consider a device capable of Direct Push technology. Direct Push requires, at a minimum, Windows Mobile 2003 SE with the Messaging and Security Feature Pack installed. If Direct Push is not an option on your device, UITS suggests you move to timed interval synchronization.

For more about ActiveSync, see the Microsoft TechNet Exchange ActiveSync FAQ.

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