Do you have a question about the AKO/DKO portal? This help file is a launching point for the other help files in our site and will help you navigate our Frequently Asked Questions. Just click on any subject below to be taken to the help file for that subject.
Table of Contents
The following table of contents is a list of our FAQs that assist with navigating the AKO/DKO portal. Click on the subject to go to the related FAQ.
AKO/DKO Portal Information
Site Access
Tools & Services
AKO/DKO Tools & Services refer to the section in the top right of the home page that list the broad features of AKO available to you. A brief description of each follows.
- Email – This is a globally accessible email account you log in to using your AKO/DKO account. For more information about AKO/DKO email
- Files – The files area can be used to share files between any AKO/DKO members across the globe. For more information about the Files area:
Pages
Groups
Groups – Groups on AKO/DKO are used to control access and maintain lists of user groups. For more information about Groups
Survivor’s Benefit
The Army Knowledge Online maintains account access for users whose spouse dies while in the service of the military or retirement. We do have certain requirements to qualify for a continuing account but all of these issues are handled with the care and discretion demanded of such a sensitive...
AKO/DKO typically uses more bandwidth than any other NIPR site, and thus timeouts and latency issues are a frequent occurrence. They are caused by the small amounts of bandwidth allocated for NIPR by most sites. Fortunately there is an easy remedy: adjust factory MTU and TTL settings so they are...
Internet Explorer keeps turning off TLS 1.0All DoD websites require minimum security settings within your browser in order to access their resources.
You can check MINIMUM BROWSER SECURITY SETTINGS for additional information on required browser security settings.
For your personal computer:
There is a known issue with Internet Explorer and some add-ons that causes...
Internet Explorer 9 includes a feature called ActiveX Filtering, that allows a whitelist style protection scheme. When enabled NO ActiveX Controls are allowed to run, then when you go to a site that requires ActiveX Controls, if you trust the site you can add them to the whitelist. Only websites...
Forge.mil supplies a Mozilla Add-on that will install your DoD root certificates for Firefox and will also add some additional options for Thunderbird. However, in the most recent versions of Firefox and Thunderbird, the file may not properly install all of the necessary components.
If you have already downloaded and installed...
There has always been a certificate warning with regards to the AKO/DKO portal. In IE version 6 this message was a pop-up that gives you details about the certificate and the warning and what it is for; and clicking the ‘yes’ button would simply take you in to the portal.
This...
Minimum Browser Security Settings for Accessing DoD Websites
On 23 June 2010, AKO converted to using only NIST / NIAP-approved Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption. To ensure access to the Portal, it may be necessary to change individual browser settings. Specifically:
Only Internet Explorer 6 (or higher) and Mozilla Firefox browsers support...
What is the purpose of the DoD Root Certificate?
A certificate is a digital document providing the identity of a website or individual. The Army/DoD Portal uses a certificate to identify itself to its users and to enable a secure connection.
Army Community Members
If you have an Army Account type (Full or...
Sanctuary Soldiers
A Sanctuary Soldier is a Reservist who has achieved 18 or more years of Active Federal Service that moves to Active Duty to complete a 20 year Active Duty obligation. Commonly referred to as the “18 year lock-in,” Reserve Component soldiers that file for Active Duty status after 18...
Saving a site like AKO to your bookmarks may require editing of the bookmark that is not required of many other sites. When you access AKO there is dated information that is included in the address that may invalidate your session if you attempt to use it again. If your...
The AKO/DKO Portal doesn’t currently support the Safari browser. At this time, the only supported browsers are; Internet Explorer version 6, 7, 8, or 9 and Firefox version 2 or above. Viewing AKO/DKO in a non-supported browser is not recommended and may cause the site to display and function incorrectly....
What is KBA?
KBA stands for “Knowledge Based Authentication.” It is an additional layer of security used when you log in to the portal using your username and password.
KBA is similar to a password because you are being prompted to respond with something you know in order to access your account....
If you are prompted to answer your KBA questions or you are being taken back to the login page when accessing webmail from within AKO by click the email icon, the cause may be due to trusted sites not being configured on your internet browser. To correct this, complete the...
AKO/DKO provides world-class security for online information management, digital document storage and email solutions to more than 2.4 million users. By adopting security industry best practices and standards, and with guidance from DoD and Army CIO/G6, AKO/DKO is one of the best defended information systems in the DoD.
AKO/DKO uses two...
If you receive the error “Page Cannot Be Displayed” (in Internet Explorer) or “Server Not Found” (in Firefox) you can use the following steps to troubleshoot your issue:
Check your browser and version for FIPS (Federal Information Processing Standard) compliance.
Internet Explorer
In IE 6 and 7 open your Tools menu and select...
If you are having an issue with the AKO/DKO portal and you need to clear your Internet browser cache, make sure you are using Internet Explorer 6 or above. If the issue persists after following the instructions below, reboot the computer system and try again. You should also ensure that...
If you are having issues with AKO/DKO where the portal is not working the way it should, you should clear your temporary internet files and check the settings within Internet Explorer. Instructions for deleting temporary internet files are in a separate help article check CLEARING MY BROWSER’S TEMPORARY INTERNET FILES.
Follow...
New accounts on AKO/DKO are not able to be accessed the moment that it is created. It takes approximately 20 minutes before any new account can be accessed while AKO/DKO builds your account and sets your access permissions. If you are still unable to access your account after 20 minutes...
Retired Status and AKO/DKO
Currently the AKO/DKO maintains unsponsored account statuses for our users who have fully retired from the service of the Army (including Army Reserves, Army National Guard, and Department of the Army Civilians). Users who are eligible for unsponsored DKO accounts that retire must have their accounts converted...
New Guest Account
If a user needs access to AKO/DKO but is not in the service or civilian branches of DoD they may be sponsored for a guest account. These accounts have potentially more limited access and require reapproval after a set period of time.
Eligibility
Anyone that has a willing and able...
Sponsor Management Console
The Sponsor Management Console on AKO/DKO is where full account holders go to manage their sponsored accounts for actions such as initial approval or periodic re-approval. You can find a list of all the things you can do within your Sponsor Management Console as well as the access...
Creating a Guest AKO account
A guest account on AKO is one that requires sponsorship from a full account holder. A guest account is limited in its access rights and requires an affirmative action by the full account holder to essentially vouch for the guest’s status as someone authorized to access...
Verification Process
Log in to AKO; https://www.us.army.mil
Open the ‘My Account’ menu
Click on ‘Account Information’
Click on ‘Verify My Account’
Enter the Information Requested
Note that your account name must match the name provided to us in your records exactly or your account will be unable to verify. For the requirements of verification no nickname...
Eligibility
If you are a service member with any of the following statuses you are entitled to an account on AKO that does not require sponsorship and has the ability to sponsor other users for accounts as well as other access privileges relating directly to your specific status.
Active Duty
Active Duty Army
Active...
Pay Entry Base Date (PEBD) can be found on your Leave and Earnings Statement (LES). The PEBD is listed as ‘Pay Date’ near the top of the LES. Your PEBD is generally the date at which you swore into the Army or were commissioned. Please note that if you experienced...
When creating a password on the AKO/DKO Portal, certain requirements must be met to maintain the integrity of your account and personal information.
Your password has the following restrictions:
Passwords are case sensitive
It must be at least 10 characters
It must contain at least 2 special characters: !@#$%^&*_-+=’:;.,
It must contain at least 2...
If you need assistance with resetting your AKO/DKO password, you can use the options located on the login page. Check RESETTING MY AKO PASSWORD for further information on the ‘Reset Password’ link.
If you require assistance with another area of the portal, or the options will not work for your password, you...
Your AKO/DKO username is based off of your first and last names, using a period as a separator. For example when a user named Charlie Oscars registers for an AKO/DKO account, he is given the username charlie.oscars if it is not already taken. If your name is a common name,...
The option to reset your password via email is only availiable once every 15 days. If you have locked out this option then you must reset your password using one of the methods described below:
Reset your password using your CAC:
You must have a CAC and be at a location with...
CAC restrictions on passwords
You are limited to resetting your password to AKO using the external reset process a maximum of five times. After this you must log in to AKO with your CAC to change your password.
AKO limits your ability to log in to your account without your CAC. Content...
You can contact us using any one of the following options below:
Email: help@us.army.mil
Phone: 1-866-335-ARMY (2769) -Use Option 3
DSN (OCONUS): 312-560-1110 then ask the operator to connect you to 866-335-2769
Below is a list of help pages of our most commonly requested answers.
How can I reset my password?
How can I use my...
Military and Civilian CAC holders
All Military and Civilian CAC holders are required to reset their password with their CAC to obtain a 150-day password. If you do not reset your password while CAC logged into your account, the password will only be valid for 30 days. There is a maximum...
CAC PIV
Many users are what is considered a “dual persona.” A user who is dual persona (such as someone who is both National Guard AND a DA Civilian) will have to complete an additional series of steps before they will be able to access their Enterprise Email.
Your Common Access Card...
Starting 2011 Army email users began transitioning to an Enterprise Email service managed by the Defense Information Systems Agency. Instead of accessing email through local email servers at each installation, users will reach through the network to access email services from DoD data centers.
When you’re migrated to Enterprise Email, your...
How do I recover deleted files?
AKO Files has a Recycle Bin when in Tiles view that holds deleted files for 30 days.
To view the Recycle Bin:
Go to your folder and set to ‘Tiles View’ (if you see ‘Details View’ at the top of the open folder, you are already in...
Can I change my profile page? I do not want anyone to see my profile page, how do I delete the information within my profile page?
Add/Remove Channels to the profile
Log in to the portal; https://www.us.army.mil
Open the ‘My Account’ menu.
Select ‘myProfile Page’
Click ‘Profile Settings’ on the left.
Click ‘Additional Settings’ on the...
How do I find ‘Page Properties’ and what can I do with it?
As the name suggests, ‘Page Properties’ will display the administrative properties of the page you are viewing. Therefore, you must have administrative rights to a page in order to view the page’s properties.
How do I find the properties...
Why am I receiving email with the subject: “[AKO Warning – Message fails DKIM verification]”?
This error usually happens when there is a carriage return in a message without a line feed. The AKO mail system tries to correct and causes a failure message.
Most of the time, this error occurs when...
How do I encrypt an email?
This FAQ describes how to encrypt an email with the AKO Webmail. To encrypt emails within an external email client, contact your local IT Team or the external email client’s help desk.
To encrypt emails, you must have S/MIME enabled and your signing certificate selected in...
I recently changed my AKO/DKO username, which changed my email address. How can I get my email address changed on my CAC?
You will need to update the email address on your CAC if you change the username on your AKO. Your AKO email address is registered to your Common Access...
Why can’t I view HTML within AKO/DKO webmail?
HTML content can no longer be viewed in an email within AKO/DKO webmail.
HTML scripts within the body of the email.
AKO/DKO webmail is stripping javascript and placing “This message contained javascript which has been removed by AKO/DKO IAW INFOCON level 3 and 4.” in...
What does it mean when there is an attachment that says “Unverified Signature”?
A signature attachment on an email is a method of verifying that the identity of the sender is valid. It is your assurance that the person sending you the email is who they say they are.
Unverified Signature
If you open...
Where is my vCard and how do I update my vCard?
A vCard is an electronic business card that can be attached to email messages in your AKO/DKO webmail.
Your vCard is located within your AKO/DKO webmail. You can get to your AKO/DKO webmail by either:
Logging into AKO/DKO and click on the...
What is the external/registration email address? How do I update my registration email address?
External / Registration Email Address
What is it?
Your external/registration email address is what AKO uses to contact you outside of AKO. It is a requirement during registration that you enter an external email address. Sensitive personal information may be sent...
Why am I not receiving email in my AKO/DKO webmail?
Mail Quota
Please make sure that you are not exceeding your AKO/DKO mail storage quota. All messages regardless of what folder they are in count towards your quota.
The mail system will automatically send a warning message when a user’s AKO/DKO mail account...
Why does my full name show in my emails now?
In accordance with DA PAM 25-1-1 Section 3-4, paragraph (h)(2)(a), AKO/DKO implemented the use of the “friendly name” format of a displayed email address and user ID. This fulfills the national requirement that all persons have displayed, their relationship to the...
Why can’t I compose, reply, or forward email within the AKO/DKO webmail?
Compose, Reply, Forward Window Does Not Appear
The compose, reply, and forward windows are normal pop-up windows. Because it is a pop-up window it can be blocked by most pop-up blockers. You must disable, bypass, or uninstall your pop-up blocker...
Are you having problems with AKO/DKO email?
The folowing list are our most frequently asked questions regarding our webmail client and email delivery options. Click on any link below to read more.
Webmail
What’s new in Webmail 2.0?
How do I forward my email?
What does AKO/DKO do about spam?
I am unable to compose, reply or...
What does branding my page mean? <or> How do I brand my page?
Branding your page in AKO/DKO allows you to change the coloration of the portal, and allows you to change the graphic located in the upper left of the portal. This allows site administrators for AKO/DKO an additional level...
What are the options that I have when I go to a page within AKO?
Depending on your access level to the page, you will see different tools when clicking on ‘Options’ located at the top right of a page.
Below is a description of each tool within ‘Options’.
Add to Favs/Remove from...
How can I contact an administrator of a page?
“Every AKO/DKO page is different. There are far too many to visit them all. Sometimes you may encounter a page which has some content that you want to know more about. The Help Desk receives numerous comments and questions about various pages...
Can I display HTML on my AKO/DKO page?
It is possible to display HTML on your page within AKO/DKO. For instructions on how to display HTML on your page, visit the AKO/DKO and HTML page: https://www.us.army.mil/suite/page/407965
You can also get to the AKO/DKO and HTML page by:
Log into your AKO/DKO account.
Click on ‘Quick...
Can I get an existing page to show up within another page’s related content?
There are two ways to make a page show up within another page’s Related Content.
For this FAQ, the following will be used to help differentiate between the two pages:
Page A: will be the page you wish to...
What is a “Team Group”?
Team Groups provide the same access control abilities of a “My Group”, but they have slightly different permissions. You can also associate a Team Group with a page.
All of the members of a “Team Group” are aware of its existence, but administrators of the group have...
What is a “My Group”?
The creation of a “My Group” has the fewest options, which makes it the easiest to manage. By default, these groups are secure, which means that only administrators of the group are even aware of them.
My Groups are commonly used for personal contact lists or access...
What is a “Community Group”?
Community Groups are intended for wide-open access. By default, they are set to allow access to any user, as well as be visible by any user, even those that are not already assigned to the group. Generally you will associate a community group to a community...
How can I create a rules-based group?
A rules-based group is a list of people that include certain characteristics such as all individuals of the same rank, MOS, UIC, etc… These groups are easier to maintain than other groups because the members of the group are added and removed as their...
What is the section “My Alerts” on the AKO homepage meant for?
The “My Alerts” section of AKO is the portion of the home page on the left that lists the following categories of alerts:
AKO Mail Inbox
New Notifications
New In My Files
New In My Blogs
My Tasks
By clicking on any of these links...
Where can I find my notifications? <or> Where can I change the settings to receive notifications within my Webmail?
To view your AKO/DKO notifications
Log into AKO/DKO.
Click on the ‘My Account’ tab.
Click on ‘My Notifications’.
Type of Notifications
Files Notifications
Invitation Notifications
Link Notifications
New Content Notifications
Page Notifications
Registration Notifications
Task and Process Notifications
For descriptions of each type of...
What is the “My Weather” section?
My Weather allows you to check your local weather and the weather of other locations.
Change your Default weather location
To change your default weather location:
Log into AKO/DKO.
Click on the Self Service drop down menu, then on My Weather.
Click on ‘Click here to change you default weather...
What kind of information is displayed within the AKO News and Alerts section?
The AKO News and Alert section is the tabbed section located at the top. It contains four tabs. They are AKO News, Army Wide Announcements, Early Bird News, Safety News. Below is a description of each tab.
Announcements
Army Wide...
Where can I learn more on how to use the Search engine within AKO/DKO more efficiently?
If you are looking for content within AKO/DKO but you are unsure where it is located within the portal, you can use the ‘Search’ bar which is located directly under the banner within the AKO/DKO...
What can be found under ‘Quick Links’?
The Quick Links menu is a collection of sites and functions within AKO/DKO that are designed to never be more than two clicks away.
Quick Links
Inside AKO/DKO – Your gateway to the available and upcoming features of AKO.
Create a Site – A fast way to access the...
What is within the ‘My Account’ tab?
The ‘My Account’ tab contains many links to pages that will allow you to modify your account settings. Below is a listing of all the links that can be found within ‘My Account’.
myProfile Page
You can access your profile page from this link. This will...
What kind of content can I create within AKO/DKO?
Creating content on AKO/DKO first requires you to understand the different types of content that can be created. There are four components to site creation on AKO/DKO: the group, page, forum, and the folder.
Groups
A group is simply a listing of AKO/DKO usernames,...
How do I delete a Group?
To delete a group, you will need to be an Administrator of the group. Once the group is deleted, it cannot be recovered. Please make sure that the group you delete is not needed.
To delete a group:
Log into AKO/DKO.
Click on ‘Groups’ located at the top...
How are users listed within the group’s membership list?
Group Profile
By default, members within a group profile are listed alphabetically by their username. You can click any column to sort alphabetically within that column.
To view the members within a groups profile you will either need to be an administrator of the...
How do I remove myself from a group that I am in?
Depending on how you were added to a group, you may or may not have the ability to remove yourself from the group. You can unregister from a group, and contact the Groups Administrator by following the main steps...
What is an “Organizational Group”?
An “Organizational Group” is intended to be placed in the organizational hierarchy of AKO/DKO. Creation of these groups is limited, and a parent must be assigned to the group upon its creation. Only users that are an administrator of an organizational group or site can create...
How do I delete a page?
To delete a page within AKO/DKO, you will first need to be an administrator of the page. Follow the instructions below to delete a page:
Log into AKO/DKO.
Enter the page you wish to delete.
Click on ‘Options’ on the top right of the page.
Click on ‘Page Properties’.
Click...
What are the options I have when I edit a page?
To edit a page you have to be either an administrator or an editor of the page.
Where do I go to edit a page?
Go to the page you want to edit.
Click on ‘Options’.
Click on ‘Edit Page’.
‘Edit Page’ tools.
Within the ‘Edit...
How do I create a new page?
Every AKO/DKO user has the ability to create portal pages. Like most other portal objects, you can create a page through the ‘Create a Site’ located within the “Toolbox” on the AKO/DKO homepage.
You can create a page by following the steps below:
Log into AKO/DKO.
Click...
Where is the Channel Guide?
The AKO/DKO Channel Guide can be found within the AKO/DKO portal. To locate the Channel Guide:
Log into your AKO/DKO account.
Click on ‘Quick Links.’
Look under ‘AKO Tips & Training.’
Click on ‘Portal Training.’
The ‘AKO/DKO Channel Guide’ link can be found under the ‘Site Creation’ section on the right...
What kind of tools and services does AKO/DKO offer?
AKO/DKO Tools & Services refer to the section in the top right of the home page that list the broad features of AKO available to you. A brief description of each follows.
Email – This is a globally accessible email account you log...
What does this Military Acronym Mean?
Use the following chart for military acronyms*:
*Provision of this list does not mean these acronyms are acceptable to use for Utility Account names. For verification of Utility Account names, please reference the following document regarding Utility Account creation: https://www.us.army.mil/suite/doc/13359519
Military Acronym Description
AAFES Army and Air Force...
Why am I getting the following error when uploading files: “Your file upload has failed because the file is either a corrupt zip file or has exceeded the zip file size limit of 200MB. Please make the appropriate changes and re-try your file upload”?
If you receive the error “Your file...
How do I delete content within the AKO/DKO Files page?
You will need to have administrator access to the content that you wish to delete.
Author Access
If you only have author access to a file or folder, you can only delete content that they have uploaded. Anything that anyone one else uploaded,...
How do I create a new Files Community?
To create a new files community, you will need to be an administrator of the parent community your new community will fall under.
To become an administrator of a files community, you will need to contact the administrators of the community and request to...
How can I locate the files that are missing within my folder?
Where are my missing files?
There may be two reasons why your folder are missing:
FOUO Content
Your folder may be a CAC-secured folder and is not visible due to logging in with a user name and password. If you log in...
What happened to the AKO Home page?
What happened to the AKO Home page and the Log in page?
The AKO Homepage has changed to accommodate CAC protection to FOUO (For Official Use Only) restricted content while allowing password access to unrestricted (non-FOUO) content.
When logging in with username/password, your files may...
What is the difference between “Personal and Teams” folders and “U.S. Army Organization” folders?
There are two types of top level folders within AKO/DKO. The two types are:
Personal and Teams
US Army Organization or Community
Personal and Teams Folder
Most users only have the ability to create a personal and team folders. Personal and...
How do I request to have a U.S. Army Organization folder created?
Requesting U.S. Army Organization Folder
When requesting a U.S. Army Organization folder, one of two things will happen. Either the current administrator will create the folder for you under their community and make you the administrator of the folder or...
What are the different settings for a folder?
When creating a folder, there are three security settings that can be set. They are:
Registration – “How will users of this folder be chosen?”
Discoverability – “Should items in this folder be returned in search results?”
Change Approval – “How will user changes to this...
Can I change the security settings for my folder after I’ve created it?
The security settings such as user changes requiring approval, discoverability, and how users gain access to a knowledge folder can be changed once you have created a folder. To do this:
Log into AKO/DKO.
Locate the folder you wish to...
What can I view within the AKO/DKO files homepage?
The AKO/DKO Files homepage is the first page you see when you click the ‘Files’ button. It is your main console to the files section and contains information on your file activity, as well as useful quick links.
Files Homepage Components
Organizational Files
Personal & Teams...
I tried to get into my email, and the screen appears to be stuck with the following message displayed:
“Please wait while the applet loads. This may take a while depending on your system speed…”
What can I do?
AKO email is Java based, so try clearing your Java cache:
Go to the Windows...
What is ActiveX Filtering in Internet Explorer 9?
Internet Explorer 9 includes a feature called ActiveX Filtering, that allows a whitelist style protection scheme. When enabled NO ActiveX Controls are allowed to run, then when you go to a site that requires ActiveX Controls, if you trust the site you can...
Site Map allows you to browse all team, community, and organizational pages within AKO/DKO. Also it allows you to search for specific portal pages.
The Organizational Sites tab on the Site Map is organized into three top level components: DoD Organizations, Federal Agencies, and Knowledge Networks.
Site Map Location
You can locate ‘Site Map’...
Why am I getting “403: Access Forbidden” and how do I correct it?
If you receive an error reading “403: Access Forbidden” you may have a corrupt or invalid file in your temporary internet files. Depending on the browser you’re using the method of clearing your temporary files (cache) can vary. Search your...
What is the “Low Bandwidth” check box for?
The “Low Bandwidth” check box (Also Known As AKO/DKO Lite) is a lean, light, and fast way to access AKO/DKO’s most popular services. AKO/DKO Lite features links to IM, mail, discussion threads, news headlines, and self-service communities. With its image-free design and concise...
Why am I getting that the message is not available? Why am I told that I am ineligible to view the message?
Ineligible to view Video
If you receive a message saying that your account was not eligible to view the message, you were not added to view the video message by...
What is the level of information AKO/DKO is allowed to support and process?
The following information is provided as a reference to what the level of information AKO/DKO is allowed to support and process.
Mission Assurance Category
The level of confidentiality and level of robustness for an IS system is set by AR...
How do I report abuse within the portal?
Depending on where the abuse occurs, you may need to report it differently.
AKO/DKO IM/Chat
If the abuse occurs within the AKO/DKO IM, you will need to:
Select the chat you wish to report abuse for.
Open the drop-down box in the upper right of the page...
How can I locate other AKO/DKO users?
Are you trying to find another AKO/DKO user? You can use the AKO/DKO ‘People’ search to search for any currently active AKO/DKO account. To get to the ‘People’ search:
Log in to AKO/DKO.
Click on the ‘People’ button located on the upper right side of the AKO/DKO homepage.
Within...
“Edit My Favorites” page
The number of favorites that are displayed has increased to 50 for all favorites types, so here’s how to edit your favorites.
To visit your “Edit My Favorites” page:
Log into AKO/DKO.
Click on the ‘Favorites’ drop down menu.
Click on ‘Edit My Favorites’.
This will open your “Edit My Favorites” page...
The Department of Defense requires an information sharing environment that supports secure access to disparate, cross-service capabilities and information as an enterprise collaborative environment for warfighting, business, and intelligence users.
The focus of Defense Knowledge Online (DKO) is the requirement for a DoD-wide collaborative enterprise. The Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA)...
You can contact AKO using the AKO Phone Number or any one of the following options below:
Email: help@us.army.mil
Phone: 1-866-335-ARMY (2769) -Use Option 2
DSN (OCONUS): 312-560-1110 then ask the operator to connect you to 866-335-2769
Below is a list of help pages of our most commonly requested answers.
Help page table of contents
How can...
The privacy of our visitors to this website is important to us.
We recognize that privacy of your personal information is important. Here is information on what types of personal information we receive and collect when you use and visit this website, and how we safeguard your information. We never sell your...
How do I manage my sponsored accounts? -OR- How do I approve a sponsored account?
Sponsor Management Console
The Sponsor Management Console on AKO/DKO is where full account holders go to manage their sponsored accounts for actions such as initial approval or periodic re-approval. You can find a list of all the things you can...
How do I help someone else get a sponsored account under me?
New Guest Account
If a user needs access to AKO/DKO but is not in the service or civilian branches of DoD they may be sponsored for a guest account. These accounts have potentially more limited access and require reapproval after a...
Will I still be able to use my AKO/DKO account when I ETS or Retire from the Army?
Retired Status and AKO/DKO
Currently the AKO/DKO maintains unsponsored account statuses for our users who have fully retired from the service of the Army (including Army Reserves,Army National Guard, and Department of the Army Civilians). Users who are eligible for unsponsored DKO...
How can I receive a Joint Unsponsored Account (JUA) on DKO?
Eligibility for DoD Users to get DKO accounts
Please find the category below that you fall under and follow the instructions. Request DKO users please contact the AKO/DKO help desk for questions you may have about opening an account in DKO.
DoD Military...
What is my PEBD?
Pay Entry Base Date (PEBD) can be found on your Leave and Earnings Statement (LES). The PEBD is listed as ‘Pay Date’ near the top of the LES. Your PEBD is generally the date at which you swore into the Army or were commissioned. Please note that if you experienced a break...
How do I register for a DKO account?
Eligibility
If you are a service member with any of the following statuses you are entitled to an account on AKO/DKO. Your ability to sponsor other users for an account on AKO/DKO is based on your status with the military. The chart below is...
How do I verify my account?
Verification Process
1
Log in to AKO; https://www.us.army.mil
2
Open the ‘My Account’ menu
3
Click on ‘Account Information’
4
Click on ‘Verify My Account’
5
Enter the Information Requested
Note that your account name must match the name provided to us in your records exactly or your account will be unable to verify. For the requirements...
How do I register for a Full AKO account?
Eligibility
If you are a service member with any of the following statuses you are entitled to an account on AKO that does not require sponsorship and has the ability to sponsor other users for accounts as well as other access privileges relating...
When I create a new password for my AKO/DKO login, what are the requirements? Why won’t my new password be accepted?
When creating a password on the AKO/DKO Portal, certain requirements must be met to maintain the integrity of your account and personal information.
Your password has the following restrictions:
Passwords are case...
How do I register for a Sponsored/Guest Account?
Creating a guest AKO account
A guest account on AKO is one that requires sponsorship from a full account holder. A guest account is limited in its access rights and requires an affirmative action by the full account holder to essentially vouch for the guest’s...
Do I have to log into AKO/DKO with my CAC anytime I want to access the AKO/DKO portal?
CAC Security
The Army, and by extension the Army Knowledge Online, has made steps to have a greater amount of security on user’s ability to access Army systems. The Common Access Card is the solution for increasing security on your...
What does AKO/DKO do about Spam Mail?
AKO/DKO is not an enclosed system, and has never been specially protected from spam mail. As we are an unclassified email system and must allow the use of sending AKO/DKO mail to commercial addresses (such as Yahoo, Hotmail, Gmail, etc…) we are similarly vulnerable to spam mail; as spam mail has...
What can I do to make sure I have as smooth a transition to DISA Enterprise Email as possible?
Preparing for the Enterprise Email Migration
Attempt to Access mail.mil
1 Browse to EE OWA; https://web.mail.mil
2 Click ‘Ok’
3 Select your Email Certificate and click ‘Ok’
4 Enter your PIN as requested
5 Click the next link that appears
6...
How can I access CAC-required sites such as Enterprise Email and the AKO/DKO portal from home?
Making your home computer ready to log in to Enterprise Email, the AKO/DKO portal, or any other CAC-required sites is easy. If you have a newer Windows-based computer and a newer Common Access Card it...
How do I expunge messages marked for deletion in the AKO/DKO webmail? How do I purge a message that have been marked for deletion?
Instead of using a trash folder to manage your emails you can configure your mailbox to mark your messages for deletion so that you can expunge them...
How do I set my AKO mail to auto-forward?
To forward your AKO/DKO mail, follow the instructions below.
Webmail Classic*:
Log into AKO/DKO.
Click on the ‘My Account’ tab.
Under ‘Mail Preferences, Click on ‘Mail Options’.
Go to the ‘Select a Mail Option’ section.
Select the ‘Forward Email (Non-AKO Account)’ option.
Enter the address you would like your email forwarded to in the “Forwarding Address”...
Why am I using so much of my mail quota even though I have deleted all/most of my messages in webmail?
Your mail quota applies to all of the mail in your account even if they are not in your inbox folder. Email that is in any sub-folder including your ‘Sent’ or ‘Drafts’ folder will...
Why am I not receiving email in my AKO/DKO webmail?
Mail Quota
Please make sure that you are not exceeding your AKO/DKO mail storage quota. All messages regardless of what folder they are in count towards your quota.
The mail system will automatically send a warning message when a user’s AKO/DKO mail account reaches 90% storage capacity. Please check for...
I’m getting a <Page Cannot be displayed> or <Server not found> error when I try to access AKO. What can I do?
If you receive the error “Page Cannot Be Displayed” (in Internet Explorer) or “Server Not Found” (in Firefox) you can use the following steps to troubleshoot your issue:
Check your...
How do I clear my Temporary Internet Files (cache)?
If you are having an issue with the AKO/DKO portal and you need to clear your Internet browser cache, make sure you are using Internet Explorer 6 or above. If the issue persists after following the instructions below, reboot the computer system...
What are the settings that are needed within Internet Explorer to ensure that AKO/DKO portal works properly?
If you are having issues with AKO/DKO where the portal is not working the way it should, you should clear your temporary internet files and check the settings within Internet Explorer. Instructions for deleting...
Why am I limited on how often I can reset my password without using my CAC?
CAC restrictions on passwords
You are limited to resetting your password to AKO using the external reset process a maximum of five times. After this you must log in to AKO with your CAC to change...
What is CAC-Only login? I am tired of resetting my password, how can I make it so I don’t have to reset my password all the time? How do I remove the CAC-Only login?
CAC-Only login
If you have a Common Access Card that you can use to access your AKO/DKO account...
How do I configure AKO webmail to work with Office 2010?
Follow the directions below to configure your AKO/DKO webmail to Outlook 2010 on your local machine.
1. Open Outlook 2010.
2. Click on ‘File’.
3. Click on ‘Add Account ‘.
4. Within the “Add Account Window” tab, click on ‘Manually configure server settings or...
How do I configure my AKO/DKO webmail to MAC Mail?
The following instructions will assist you with setting up your AKO/DKO mail account with Mac Mail.
Launch “Mail” application.
Click on ‘Mail’ located at the top left of the screen.
Click on ‘Preferences…’.
Click on ‘Accounts’.
Click on the ‘+’ (Plus Sign) located at the bottom...
How do I configure my AKO/DKO directory (GAL) to work with Thunderbird 3.x?
Use the following steps to configure the Mozilla Thunderbird (version 3.x) mail client, with your AKO directory (GAL)*:
1) 1) Install the DoD Configuration Add-on for Mozilla:
a. Open Firefox and go to www.forge.mil and click the link to Download...
How do I set up Thunderbird with my AKO mail?
To configure Thunderbird with your AKO mail:
1. Open Mozilla Thunderbird and go to Tools –> Account Settings.
2. Click the ‘Account Actions’ button then ‘Add Mail Account’ and enter the following:
* Your Name
* AKO email address
* AKO password (Optional)
NOTE: If you save...
How do I configure my AKO webmail to Outlook Express?
Follow the directions below to configure your AKO Webmail to Outlook Express on your local machine.
1. Open Outlook Express
2. Click on ‘Tools’.
3. Click on ‘Accounts…’.
4. Click the ‘Add’ button.
5. Enter your display name. This is the name that will be displayed...
Where can a user get assistance with Outlook Connector?
The AKO Outlook Connector allows you to use Microsoft Office Outlook 2003 or Outlook 2007 to more easily access and manage your AKO email. It connects your Outlook client with your AKO email, the AKO GAL, your AKO calendar and tasks, as well...
AKO also provides an Outlook Connector that can configure your Outlook for AKO Mail, Calendar, and Directory services automatically. For more information on the Outlook Connector please click here (203).
The following instructions will guide you on configuring Outlook 2003 for your AKO/DKO mail by hand.
01) In Outlook open your ‘Tools’ menu and...
I have my AKO/DKO mail configured to an external mail client and cannot send email. What can I try to correct the problem?
Your ISP (Internet Service Provider) may restrict your outgoing mail, requiring you to use their outgoing mail server. You can contact your ISP to get the correct outgoing...
What settings do I need to configure Outlook 2007 with my AKO/DKO webmail?
Follow the directions below to configure your AKO/DKO webmail to Outlook 2007 on your local machine.
Open Outlook 2007.
Click on ‘Tools’
Click on ‘Account Settings…’.
Within the “E-mail” tab, click on ‘New’.
Select “Microsoft Exchange, POP 3, IMAP, or HTTP”.
Click on ‘Next’.
Select...
Due to the variability with the configuration of a personal handheld device the AKO/DKO helpdesk cannot provide direct support with its configuration; please refer to your vendor’s instructions on how to configure your device. We have included links to some popular handheld devices below for your convenience. We have also...
How do I configure my AKO/DKO webmail with an external email client?
The settings to use your AKO/DKO email with an external email client are all the same, just the look and feel of each email client are not.
Use the settings below to configure your AKO/DKO email with your email client...
How do I setup my iPhone to receive AKO email?
Configuration and troubleshooting support for handheld devices is only available on a limited basis from the AKO/DKO Helpdesk; however, these devices may be used with your AKO/DKO email and IM service.
To configure your handheld device, you may need to refer to...
HTML content can no longer be viewed in an email within AKO/DKO webmail.
HTML scripts within the body of the email.
AKO/DKO webmail is stripping javascript and placing “This message contained javascript which has been removed by AKO/DKO IAW INFOCON level 3 and 4.” in place of the javascript.
HTML Attachment
AKO/DKO webmail is...
To digitally sign or encrypt emails you will need to:
Enable the S/MIME (Secure/Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions) option on your AKO/DKO webmail.
Have your internet browser configured to work with S/MIME. Using Internet Explorer as your browser requires having your ActiveX Controls enabled and permissions to install them. If you use Firefox...
What settings do I need to configure Outlook 2007 with my AKO/DKO webmail?
Answer
o digitally sign or encrypt emails you will need to:
Enable the S/MIME (Secure/Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions) option on your AKO/DKO webmail.
Have your internet browser configured to work with S/MIME. Using Internet Explorer as your browser requires having your...
DoD Global Directory Service (GDS) is a Department of Defense (DoD) enterprise-wide search engine. It allows DoD personnel names, e-mail addresses, and DoD PKI email encryption certificates to be searchable via the web. GDS pulls information from PKI directories and Designated Data Sources (DDSs) within the Combatant Commanders/Services/Agencies (C/S/As).
NOTE: This...
Question
What is the AKO/DKO webmail?
Answer
AKO/DKO Webmail is a web-based communication and collaboration client that allows you to compose and manage email messages, manage personal addresses including accessing any public address books, and manage and share calendars. You can access AKO/DKO webmail from any location with an internet connection. Every AKO/DKO...
Question
How do I access AKO webmail without being prompted to answer my KBA questions?
Answer
If you are prompted to answer your KBA questions or you are being taken back to the login page when accessing webmail from within AKO by click the email icon, the cause may be due to trusted...
Why is AKO/DKO security so tough that it even keeps soldiers out?
AKO/DKO provides world-class security for online information management, digital document storage and email solutions to more than 2.4 million users. By adopting security industry best practices and standards, and with guidance from DoD and Army CIO/G6, AKO/DKO is one...
Why am I getting a certificate error when accessing the AKO/DKO portal?
There has always been a certificate warning with regards to the AKO/DKO portal. In IE version 6 this message was a pop-up that gives you details about the certificate and the warning and what it is for; and clicking...
The Department of Defense requires an information sharing environment that supports secure access to disparate, cross-service capabilities and information as an enterprise collaborative environment for warfighting, business, and intelligence users.
The focus of Defense Knowledge Online (DKO) is the requirement for a DoD-wide collaborative enterprise. The Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA)...
What is Army Knowledge Online (AKO)?
The Army’s Enterprise Portal, Army Knowledge Online (AKO), is a primary component of the Army Knowledge Management (AKM) strategy and The Army Transformation. As the single point of entry into a robust and scalable knowledge management system, AKO is strategically changing the way the Army...
I am having trouble importing/exporting addresses with my AKO/DKO webmail. What can I do to correct the issue?
We are currently working to improve the functionality of the ‘Import/Export’ feature of the AKO webmail.
To get this feature to work correctly in Internet Explorer (IE) 7.0, please follow the steps below:
Under ‘Tools’...
Why does Webmail lock when using Internet Explorer 9?
There is a confirmed compatibility issue with a background library within Webmail 2.0 when using Internet Explorer 9. This can prevent it from loading correctly, causing it to freeze or “lock up” during login. The issue is being addressed and should be resolved...
There are several reasons why your email may not be loading completely.Webmail Freezing Above 70% If you do not have a preferred web browser set in your Mail Options you may freeze during the loading process.
In order to resolve this issue you must first log into your AKO/DKO Account. Then...
What can you tell me about Webmail 2.0? Where can I go to learn how to use all of the features of Webmail 2.0?
What are the new features of Webmail 2.0?
The new Webmail client features a fully integrated AKO IM client including presence awareness, improved secure signing and encrypting capability,...
I do not remember my login or password. i have not used in in 2 1/2 years, I retired in June 2010. can you please help me did is issue fixed, Thank you and have a blessed day
Samuel L Johnson
MSG, U.S Army
Retired
Hey Samuel, glad to help. Please check out http://akoarmymil.com/password-reset/ or email help@us.army.mil.
I have outlook 2013 and I can’t get my ako e-mail to add to it. please advise.
I finished my army career in 2007. I tried to access my ako account and I was informed it was deactivated and I had to contact the help desk but when I tried the link provided, I got a page error. Can I just contact the AKO help desk via email instead? I really really would like to regain access to my account.