To help ensure secure encryption methods and safeguard your data, we’re discontinuing the use of older versions of Transport Layer Security (TLS) that have been deemed less safe.
TLS encrypts or conceals communication between two parties. TLS uses certificates to authenticate the identity of the parties.
Comcast’s email system will support version 1.2. Comcast will discontinue the ability to connect through TLS 1.1 and lower on April 17, 2023. This means older and most likely end-of-life applications/devices will no longer be able to connect to Comcast’s email system.
If you have an out-of-date application or system, we recommend:
- Updating your device or the software you use to access your Comcast.net email or
- Speaking with a trusted resource about updating your device or the software you use to access your Comcast.net email.
Older versions of TLS are known to be insecure. Comcast relies on TLS to encrypt and protect your data in transit, including any data you send using your Comcast.net email address.
If your device or email application isn't updated before we discontinue older versions of TLS on April 17, 2023, you’ll need to use Xfinity Email in your internet browser to access your email.FAQs
What is TLS and what versions do you support?
Transport Layer Security (TLS) encrypts or conceals communication between two parties and uses certificates to authenticate the identity of the parties. Comcast’s email system will support version 1.2 and discontinue the ability to connect through TLS 1.1 and lower.
I use multiple email clients. How can I determine what client is not secure?
You can send an email from each of your clients using your Comcast.net email address to xfinity-tls-test@alerts.xfinity.com. You’ll receive an email reply with the test results:
- Pass: The email application you used to perform the test meets our minimum criteria for securing communications.
- Fail: Please follow the recommendations for updating the device or software you used to complete the test.
How do I update my client or operating system?
Due to the number of clients and operating systems, Comcast recommends you reach out to the developer for upgrade support. They're best equipped to provide the necessary options.
Do I have to purchase a new email client?
If you have a newer device but an older third-party email client, there are several open-source options available at no cost. A common open-source email client is Thunderbird.
However, if you want to continue using your current email application, you’ll need to purchase the updated version. If your device can't run an updated version of your email client, you may be able to install an updated open-source email application.
Will I lose access to my email?
Although your email is safe and still available through secure clients, or typically webmail, you won’t be able to access it through older, insecure email clients.
What do you mean by “older device?"
This could be your PC, mobile device or tablet.
What do you mean by “older software?"
This could be the operating system (OS) your PC or mobile device is running, such as Windows, iOS, or Android versions. This could also mean the email application you use to access your Comcast.net email (e.g., an old version of Outlook or Windows live mail).
What is an end-of-life application or device and why is it important?
End-of-life typically means the device or software is no longer supported by their respective owners. This is important as these owners will no longer provide important security updates to keep the device or software secure.