SharePoint & Microsoft 365 Updates That Strengthen Security, Modernization, and Automation
Microsoft continues to evolve SharePoint and Microsoft 365 with features that improve security, simplify collaboration, and modernize how organizations manage content and automation. While these updates introduce powerful capabilities, they also reinforce an important reality: successful environments depend on structure, governance, and modern practices.
Below, we recap several updates that impact file collection, browser access, automation, and alerts—and explain why they matter for real-world SharePoint environments. This is one of the many areas where our SharePoint Consulting Services help organizations move from features to strategy
Securely Request Files with External File Requests in SharePoint
The File Request feature in SharePoint document libraries provides a simple and secure way to collect files from internal or external users—without exposing your content.
With File Request, users can:
Select a specific folder in a SharePoint document library
Generate a secure upload-only link
Allow recipients to upload files without seeing folder contents
Prevent recipients from viewing, editing, deleting, or downloading files
Keep uploads isolated and protected
This capability is ideal for collecting documents from vendors, partners, or clients while maintaining full control of permissions and visibility.
However, like all sharing features, File Request works best when paired with clear governance and permissions standards. Organizations often review these scenarios as part of SharePoint Architecture & Governance to ensure security remains consistent across the environment.
SharePoint and OneDrive Hard Block for Internet Explorer 11
Beginning in January 2023, Microsoft implemented a hard block preventing access to SharePoint Online and OneDrive through Internet Explorer 11 and Edge IE mode.
What this means:
IE11 and Edge IE mode can no longer access SharePoint or OneDrive
Users must use a modern browser
Microsoft recommends Microsoft Edge for the best experience
While this change has been expected, it continues to surface challenges in organizations with legacy workflows or outdated user habits. Moving forward, SharePoint and Microsoft 365 are firmly built for modern browsers and modern experiences.
This update often acts as a catalyst for broader modernization conversations—especially when uncovered during a SharePoint Discovery & Readiness Assessment.
Automate PowerShell Scripts Securely Without Usernames and Passwords
As multi-factor authentication (MFA) becomes standard, many organizations have struggled to maintain automated PowerShell scripts that rely on stored usernames and passwords.
Fortunately, modern authentication methods now allow teams to:
Run scheduled PnP PowerShell scripts securely
Eliminate hardcoded usernames and passwords
Prevent automation failures caused by MFA changes
Improve overall security posture
By shifting authentication approaches, organizations can continue automating SharePoint Online tasks—such as provisioning, reporting, and cleanup—without compromising security.
This type of automation is most effective when aligned with intentional architecture and governance, ensuring scripts support—not undermine—the structure of the environment.
Replace Classic Alerts with Modern Alert Rules and Date Reminders
Classic SharePoint alerts are slowly giving way to more flexible, modern alternatives—and for good reason.
With modern alert rules and built-in list reminders, users can now:
Create alerts based on column value changes
Trigger notifications on item creation or deletion
Set date-based reminders directly from the list command bar
Avoid building Power Automate flows for simple scenarios
These capabilities provide lightweight automation that empowers users while reducing dependency on custom workflows.
That said, alert rules and reminders should still align with metadata design and list architecture best practices. Otherwise, notifications can become noisy or unreliable. This balance is often addressed through SharePoint Information Architecture & Metadata and SharePoint Design & Development engagements.
Why These Updates Matter Together
Although these features span security, automation, sharing, and usability, they share a common theme: modern SharePoint rewards intentional design.
Organizations that invest in:
Clear architecture
Practical governance
Secure sharing patterns
Modern automation approaches
Ongoing adoption and training
are far better positioned to absorb platform changes without disruption.
If these updates raise questions about how your SharePoint or Microsoft 365 environment is structured—or whether it’s prepared for what’s next—starting with a SharePoint Discovery & Readiness Assessment can help bring clarity and direction.
