Mailbox ManagementDistribution Groups & M365 Groups

Distribution Groups & M365 Groups

25 mins

Understanding the Concept

Distribution groups send email to multiple recipients from a single address. They come in several types: distribution lists (static membership), mail-enabled security groups (supports permissions), and dynamic distribution groups (automatic membership based on attributes).

Microsoft 365 Groups extend distribution group functionality with integrated SharePoint site, shared calendar, OneNote notebook, and Planner. They are the recommended group type for collaboration scenarios.

Dynamic distribution groups automatically calculate membership based on recipient filters like department, location, or custom attributes. This eliminates manual membership management for large, attribute-based groups.

Key Points

•Distribution lists have static, manually managed membership

•Dynamic distribution groups use attribute-based filters

•M365 Groups include SharePoint, OneNote, and Planner

•Mail-enabled security groups can be used for permissions and email

•Group naming policies enforce consistent naming conventions

•Expiration policies auto-delete inactive M365 Groups

Why This Matters

Groups are the backbone of organizational communication. Choosing the right group type and configuring proper membership management reduces administrative overhead and improves collaboration.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

✗Using distribution lists when M365 Groups provide better collaboration

✗Not testing dynamic distribution group filters before deployment

✗Forgetting to configure group naming and expiration policies

Interview Discussion Points

💡Compare all group types and recommend when to use each

💡Explain dynamic distribution group filter syntax

💡Discuss M365 Group governance and lifecycle management

MS-203 Exam Tips

📝Know the differences between all group types and their capabilities

📝Understand dynamic distribution group recipient filter syntax

📝Be familiar with M365 Group naming policy and expiration configuration

Resource & Shared Mailboxes

Mailbox Retention & Archive