Switching Back To Classic Outlook

Hi Patricia,

I understand how frustrating it is to keep being switched back when you prefer classic Outlook.

As the forum’s AI recommended, first check the automatic-switch setting, which is separate from the toggle you used to return to classic Outlook:

1. In classic Outlook, go to File > Options > General.
2. Under New Outlook options, clear “Automatically switch me to new Outlook,” if it appears.
3. Select OK, then close and reopen Outlook.

You can see Microsoft’s instructions: Switch to new Outlook for Windows.

If that option is missing, Microsoft states that you are not currently eligible for this particular automatic-switch experience. That alone does not tell us why new Outlook keeps opening.

Next, open Windows Start, search for Outlook (classic), and launch it directly. You can right-click its taskbar icon and select Pin to taskbar. This helps ensure you are opening the intended app when both versions are installed, although it does not stop migration policies.

If the setting is locked, or the switching continues even when you launch Outlook (classic) directly, ask your IT administrator to check these two controls:

• “Manage user setting for new Outlook automatic migration”: IT can disable this to turn off the user-setting automatic migration. See Opt out of new Outlook migration.
• “Admin-Controlled Migration to New Outlook”: this is separate and is not overridden by the first policy. IT should also check “Interval between new Outlook migration attempts,” which can repeat migration after you switch back. If your organization permits you to remain on classic Outlook, IT can disable the applicable migration policy. See Policy for Admin-Controlled Migration to new Outlook.

Could you let me know whether the automatic-switch checkbox is available, and whether new Outlook opens when you launch Outlook (classic) directly or only when using a shortcut or clicking an email link?