Using ActiveSync without a front-end Exchange server

If an organization doesn't use a dedicated front-end Exchange server, it's very common for users to receive the HTTP_500 error, along with a message stating that "Synchronization failed due to an error on the server." This occurs because Exchange ActiveSync uses the /Exchange virtual directory to access DAV on the back-end Exchange server. While this isn't a problem, there are two conditions that can prevent the /Exchange virtual directory from working properly.

There are two ways to correct a forms-based authentication failure. The preferred method is to deploy a front-end Exchange server. If you're trying to use ActiveSync without a dedicated front-end server, deploying one may not be an option because of budgetary issues. A workaround that involves editing the mailbox server registry can be helpful in this situation. I recommend making a full-system backup before continuing.

If you have SSL and/or forms-based authentication enabled, there is probably a logical reason fo

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r this. They don't need to be disabled permanently. Instead, we will create a second instance of the /Exchange virtual directory that doesn't require SSL or use forms-based authentication. Before beginning this procedure, disable forms-based authentication on your /Exchange virtual directory. You can re-enable it afterward.

You must modify the server's registry to make Exchange Server aware that the virtual directory you created exists. To do so:

About the author: Brien M. Posey, MCSE, has previously received Microsoft's MVP award for Microsoft Exchange, Windows Server and Internet Information Server (IIS). He has served as CIO for a nationwide chain of hospitals and was once responsible for the Department of Information Management at Fort Knox. As a freelance technical writer, Brien has written for Microsoft, TechTarget, CNET, ZDNet, MSD2D, Relevant Technologies and other technology companies. You can visit Brien's personal website at www.brienposey.com.

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