Fix Outlook not connecting to server

Outlook not connecting to server can be fixed by performing the mentioned solutions.

As Outlook is the most preferred email service provider among the Global experts and have more than 400 million active users as per recent reports

Due to high-usage, server incompetency or server outage creates issue sometimes; moreover issues also arise due to faulty system connection and settings.

We have updated the most possible factors and solutions of Outlook not connecting to the server in this blog.


Let’s dive into the plethora of solutions.

  1. Check for Internet Connection
  2. Enable Outlook Connection
  3. Check for Outlook Update
  4. Restart your device
  5. Create a new Profile
  6. Remove Add-ins
  7. Reinstall MS Outlook 

Detailed information of all the above pointers is mentioned below.


Check for internet connection 

Initially, you should not worry about fixing the issue by trying a technical solution; instead, you should calmly check your server connection and internet speed for any connectivity issues. 

Antivirus software can sometimes interfere, so consider running Outlook in safe mode. Most of the time, issues disappear by connecting to a stable internet connection; therefore, check for the server connection by following the guidelines below.

If a server error persists, consult the dialog box for Outlook for Mac or restart Outlook to resolve any connection errors.

  • Open your web browser, type “internet speed test”, click “Run Speed Test” and perform the test by following the prompt. This test will display the speed result.
steps to run internet speed test

If you are not getting accurate speed, you can ask your Internet service provider for assistance and try boosting your internet connection.

However if you have a stable connection, then follow the below solutions to fix the issue.

Enable Outlook Connection 

Enabling Outlook connection is mandatory task to do before proceeding with any other solution.

So, please check your Outlook connection; if you did not enable it before, please enable it.

To Enable or disable Outlook connection, follow the below graphical representation.

  • Open the Outlook application and check for “Work Offline option. If it is Offline, turn it On.
Auxiliary 1 (1)

Also Check: Fixed: Outlook Cannot Send This Item

Check for Outlook Update

Updating systems, including exchange service connections and email profiles, is one of the perfect solutions for any problem you are facing, such as issues with junk folders, faulty add-ins, or a disabled mailbox.

Moreover, it is considered that a new update always comes with more features, enhanced security software, improved authentication types, and more secure mail terms.

Always ensure your email address is updated in your profile to receive the latest updates and maintain security.

So, it is better to check for Outlook updates before performing other solutions listed here.

To update, check for Outlook follow the below guidelines.

  • Open the Outlook application and click File.
Auxiliary 1 (2)
  • Now, click on “Office Account” and on “Update Options, finally click on Update Now“. If you have not updated before.
Auxiliary 1 (3)

Restart your device

Steps to restart your device

Sometimes issues disappear by restoring the system to default settings i.e in the previous mode in case you did not try restarting your device to fix the issue yourself.

Do restart your system; we hope this would work for you as it is a Universal solution and preferred solution among the industry experts.

Create a new Profile

Are you facing any issue from operating Outlook? To fix the issue and reconnect again to the server, you can create a new profile. Follow steps below:

  • Go to the search bar of Windows and type “Control Panel”. 
Steps to fix Outlook not connecting to server (1)
  • On the Control Panel page, click the “User Accounts.”
Steps to fix Outlook not connecting to server (2)
  • Now, click on the “Mail 32-bit” option then click on the “Show Profiles…” on the prompt box.
Steps to fix Outlook not connecting to server (3)
  • Now, click on the “Add” option, type your “Profile name” in the box and  click “OK”.
Steps to fix Outlook not connecting to server (4)
  • Enter your name, email account, password, re-type password, and tap on the “Next”. 
Steps to fix Outlook not connecting to server (5)
  • Now, click the “Next” option and follow the directions on your screen.
Steps to fix Outlook not connecting to server (6)

Also check: How to create a rule in Outlook within five Minutes ?

Remove Add-ins

Add-ins are helpful elements that help users to create emails and much more.

Although it is not a direct part of Microsoft Outlook, third-party innovations and efforts are associated with Microsoft Outlook to give you the best mailing experience, ensuring correct account credentials and online mode passwords are in place.

These add-ins, managed through the application manager and indicated by an indicator icon, can enhance your connection via a mobile hotspot or direct email server access, improving overall email communication.

However, these add-ins sometimes create problems, such as interfering with normal mode operations or causing a corrupted PST file.

Therefore, Microsoft Outlook experts recommend users to remove add-ins for a while to resolve their issues, ensuring the email client remains functional.

In this case, add-ins can be a factor; thus, you should try connecting to Outlook platform after removing add-ins.

  • Navigate to the Outlook application on your system and go to Files>Help>Check for Updates.
Auxiliary 1 (5)
  • Select the “Add-insoption then click on “Microsoft Exchange Add-in”. Now choose “Disable” from the drop-down menu, and click the OK button.
Auxiliary 1 (7)

Reinstall MS Outlook 

Outlook application (AM)

If you are still unable to connect to the Outlook server after following the above solutions, then we would recommend you to repair or reinstall Microsoft Outlook program as it may have problem itself that can only be resolved by reinstalling Microsoft Outlook.

The process will be performed in two phases. In the first phase you have to uninstall Microsoft package using the Control Panel. In the second part, you will have to reinstall the package from CD, Drive, Cloud.

Also Check: How to Block Emails on Outlook ?


Conclusion

With the help of the following information, including simple steps and guidance on Outlook data files, one can easily connect to Outlook and the exchange server, even when facing common issues like server issues.

Moreover, by checking the status bar and performing a simple restart of Outlook 365, we have also answered frequently asked questions that would help you address concerns related to external files and ensure your Outlook version is up-to-date, aiding in the case.”

Reference:


Frequently Asked Question’s (FAQ’s)

Can I repair Microsoft Outlook?

Yes, you can repair Microsoft Outlook follow the steps provided below.
Open Control Panel>Programs and Features>Microsoft Office > Change>Select Repair>Click Continue.

Why this message appears “You cannot connect to Outlook server”?

This error appears when the user is not connected to Outlook server or working in Offline mode available on Outlook.

How can I connect on Outlook server manually?

To fix the issue, you can try solutions listed below.
Remove add-ins, creating a new profile, repair Outlook files, repair Outlook program. 

Why Outlook not connecting to the exchange server?

There are many factors, which prevent your system from connecting to the exchange server. If you have not customized your Protocol and settings, then it can restore in a while.

Why Outlook not connecting after password-change?

If you are not able to connect on outlook server after changing the password, it may be due to the fact that password has not been updated. To resolve the issue you need to clear old credentials using Windows Central manager.

How can I boost Outlook performance?

You can increase Outlook performance by clearing cache, removing add-ins, updating the program and repairing supported files.