Migrate Distribution Lists to Microsoft 365 Groups: How-to-Guide

Migrating distribution lists to Microsoft 365 groups manually using tools like EAC or PowerShell can be complex and time-consuming. Fortunately, specialized software solutions can streamline this process, automating many of the steps involved. In this article, we’ll explore one such tool to migrate distribution lists to Microsoft 365 Groups.

So, without wasting time, let’s have a quick look at the explanation of the same.

Quick Glance: Convert Distribution Group to Microsoft 365 Group

Distribution groups, synonymous with lists, streamline communication in organizations by sending emails to multiple recipients concurrently. When migrated to Microsoft 365, they enhance collaboration and efficiency. These groups collect various email addresses, ensuring simultaneous message delivery to all members.

They are ideal for broadcasting information to specific audiences. If you aim to transfer all data, including Distribution Groups or Lists, from the On-Premises Exchange Server to Office 365. Then, this needs step-by-step guidelines to execute, and in the next section, we will learn the same.

Manual Approaches to Migrate Distribution Lists to Microsoft 365 Groups

To initiate the procedure reliably, first, we have to know about the prerequisites. Here are some key points to keep in mind during the process, and these checklists are useful even if you migrate from Hosted Exchange to Office 365:

• Log in as a global administrator and a Distribution List member in Microsoft 365.
• Create mailboxes in Office 365, assign licenses, and migrate them from on-premises using varied methods or tools like Stellar Converter for EDB.
• In the Microsoft 365 Exchange Admin Center (EAC), manually form Distribution Groups or Microsoft 365 Groups, adding previous Exchange members.
• Include members in existing Distribution Groups on Microsoft 365 and upgrade them to Microsoft 365 for advanced collaboration features.

The Steps of the EAC Technique

• Access Microsoft 365 or Office 365 Exchange Admin Center (EAC) and navigate to Recipients > Groups.
• Select Add a group to migrate distribution lists to Microsoft 365 groups.
• Opt for Microsoft 365 to create these groups or choose Distribution initially, later upgradable to Microsoft 365 group. Click Next.
• Input the group name and description, then proceed by clicking Next.
• Assign Owners by clicking +Assign Owners, and choosing the appropriate user. Only the owner can manage or upgrade these groups. Click Next.
• Add members from the previous Distribution Group to the On-Premises Exchange Server. Click Next.
• Assign the same Distribution Group email address used on-premises, configure additional settings as per your organization’s policies, and proceed by clicking Next.
• Review changes and click Create group.

This creates the Distribution Group in Office 365. The final step to migrate distribution lists to Microsoft 365 groups involves upgrading these groups to Office 365 to finish migrating Distribution Groups. For the same, we have two options: EAC and PowerShell script. Below are outlined instructions to execute the procedure using EAC:

• In the Exchange Admin Center, navigate to Recipients > Groups>Choose the Distribution Group you intend to upgrade or migrate to Microsoft 365.
• Then, select the Upgrade distribution group and proceed by clicking the Upgrade button.

Note: This action is irreversible.

• The process duration varies based on the group’s member count.
• Once finished, verify the successful upgrade by checking Microsoft 365 under recipients > Groups.
• After the upgrade, the group should no longer appear in the Distribution list.

Hence, we’ve observed that this manual method is both lengthy and time-consuming. Even though we explored using a PowerShell script, it proved to be a tedious process. Therefore, let’s avoid this technique and opt for an alternative approach, making the task much simpler.

Transfer Distribution Groups to Microsoft 365 Using Advanced Solution

To migrate distribution lists to Microsoft 365 groups efficiently. Then, you have to opt for the smart solution which is SysTools Exchange to Office 365 Migration Tool. Also, like this, there is no other reliable utility on the internet. Plus, with this solution, you can switch your entire information hassle-free.

There are many benefits to consider this utility including:

1. To operate this software you don’t need technical expertise like PowerShell script. Plus, it provides a user-friendly interface that enhances the user experience.
2. With this, there is no chance of data loss during the procedure.
3. It provides the user’s mapping option to ensure a smooth transition.
4. If you completed the transition, and the new data landed in your mailbox. So, in this situation, you don’t have to repeat the migration process as it supports Delta Migration for this.
5. With this, you won’t face any compatibility issues since it supports Windows 11 / 10 (64-bit) and Windows Server 2012 and 2016 versions.

To delve deeper into this solution, try out the demo version. It’ll provide a clear idea of its reliability and functionality. To unlock the full potential, consider opting for the complete version of this utility.

Instructions to Migrate Distribution Lists to Microsoft 365 Groups

Step 1. Download and launch the migration tool.

Step 2. Choose “Exchange” as the source platform and “Office 365” as the destination.

Step 3. Select the categories you want to migrate (e.g., emails, contacts) under Workload Selection.

Step 4. Utilize features like Date Filter and Group Mapping for more control.

Step 5. Enter necessary Exchange Server details, including version, admin email, and Active Directory information.

Step 6. In the Destination window, provide Admin Email and Application ID.

Step 7. Add source users using options like Fetch Users, Import Users, or Download Template.

Step 8. Click ‘Start Migration’ to initiate the process smoothly.

Bottom Lines!

This comprehensive guide explores various strategies for migrating distribution lists to Microsoft 365 groups. We’ll delve into both manual and automated approaches, providing step-by-step instructions and addressing common challenges. Whether you’re dealing with complex distribution list structures or seeking a streamlined migration process, this guide offers valuable insights and practical tips to ensure a successful transition.