Accessing Government Email and Collaboration Tools from a Personal Computer

To access DoD resources from a personal or commercial (non-government) computer, follow the instructions below:

1. Government Email Access

To check your government email:

• Navigate to: https://webmail.apps.mil

• A Common Access Card (CAC) is required for login.

• Ensure your CAC reader is properly installed and your DoD certificates are up to date.

2. Microsoft 365 Services (SharePoint, OneDrive, Teams, etc.)

To access collaboration tools such as SharePoint, OneDrive, and Microsoft Teams:

• Navigate to: https://portal.apps.mil

• CAC login is also required for access.

• These services provide secure access to files, communication, and organizational resources.

Recommended Browser Settings

• Use Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome for best compatibility.

• Ensure your browser allows pop-ups for .mil domains.

• If prompted, select the appropriate email certificate when logging in.

✅ Step-by-Step CAC Reader Setup (Windows)

1. Connect the CAC Reader

• Plug your USB CAC reader into your computer.

• Allow the system to automatically detect and install any necessary drivers.

Tip: If the reader isn’t recognized, visit the manufacturer’s website to download the latest drivers.

2. Install DoD Root Certificates

These certificates are required for secure access to .mil sites.

a. Go to the official DoD Cyber Exchange site:

https://public.cyber.mil/pki-pke/pkipke-document-library/

b. Download and install the following:

• InstallRoot (64-bit or 32-bit version) under the "Trust Store" section

• Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions

Note: This will install DoD Root and Intermediate CA certificates.

3. Install Middleware (If Needed)

Middleware enables your system to communicate with the CAC.

• Windows 10/11 usually does not need additional middleware.

• If required (e.g., for older systems or advanced functionality), install ActivClient (DoD users may need to request access via their organization).

4. Verify CAC Reader is Working

a. Open Device Manager

• Expand Smart Card Readers

• Your CAC reader should appear (e.g., “SCR3310 USB Smart Card Reader”)

b. Open a browser and insert your CAC

• Navigate to https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/self_service

• If prompted, select your email certificate

• You should successfully access your profile if everything is working

5. Browser Configuration

• Use Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome

• Allow pop-ups for .mil domains

• Enable TLS 1.2 in your browser settings (should be enabled by default)

Troubleshooting Tips

• Certificate not showing? Try removing and reinserting the CAC.

• Site not loading? Clear your browser cache and verify certificates are installed.

• Still stuck? Try accessing the site using Microsoft Edge in Internet Explorer mode.