The Mapped Drive uses a Basic Authentication method when connecting your user files in the cloud. However, Microsoft is introducing updates to phase out this method, which might interfere with your connection.
SmartVault is working on an upgrade to address this, but in the meantime, Microsoft suggests a workaround to keep your SmartVault Drive working as expected. This guide explains how to use policies to manage Basic Authentication prompts and keep things running smoothly.
Before we begin, a word about Basic Authentication. This method sends a verified username and password with each request for protected information. While this method works, it could be more secure, so Microsoft is moving away from it.
Important
This article and instructions are intended for Network Administrators working in Managed Windows Domain Environments. To proceed,
- The workstation must also be in a Managed Domain Environment
- The user must be using Office 365
We don't recommend attempting to do this locally in your office, as the Group Policy Object needs to be pushed through the Managed Domain, and the system may not allow it.
Step-by-Step Guide to Manage Basic Authentication Prompts
- Accessing Group Policy Management Console: You can find the policies you must configure in the Group Policy Management Console. The path to finding these is-
User Configuration\Policies\Administrative Templates\Microsoft Office 2016\Security Settings.
- Downloading Necessary Files: To use these policies, you must have at least version 5359.1000 of the Group Policy Administrative Template files (ADMX/ADML) for Microsoft 365 Apps. You can download them from the Microsoft Download Center. The release date of this version is August 11, 2022.
- Cloud Policy Implementation: You also have the option to implement these policies using the Cloud Policy service. This service allows you to control Microsoft 365 settings from the cloud. Learn more about it on Microsoft's Cloud Policy Overview.
After installing the necessary policies, you must enable the Allow specified hosts to show Basic Authentication prompts to Office apps policy. In the field marked Host names:, ensure to include docs.smartvault.com.
Warning: Ensure Correct Formatting
The Host names is a delimited semi-colon list. It should look something like this: server1.foo.com; server2.bar.com; docs.smartvault.com.
Avoiding Potential Issues with Basic Authentication
Allowing Basic Authentication sign-in prompts is not recommended as a long-term solution because it poses a security risk. This policy is a temporary fix until a more secure solution is implemented.
Also, this policy only applies to subscription-based versions of Office, such as Microsoft 365 Apps for Enterprise, Project, and Visio.
For more information, visit the official Microsoft Documentation about Basic Authentication sign-in prompts.
| File | office16.admx - general MS Office settings |
| Key | Allow specified hosts to show Basic Authentication prompts to Office apps |
| Type | User |
| Registry | HKCU\software\policies\microsoft\office\16.0\common\identity!basichostallowlist |
| Value | [docs.smartvault.com] * This is a semicolon-delimited list. |
Summary
By following these steps, you're ensuring your files in the cloud remain accessible while Microsoft updates its authentication process. Remember that this is a temporary fix, and SmartVault is working on a more secure permanent solution. If you encounter any issues while implementing these steps or if something doesn't work as expected, please contact your IT team or consult the official Microsoft documentation.