Outlook not connected to server, not sending or receiving emails

Use the Outlook status bar and connection settings to restore connectivity and mail flow.

1. Check if Outlook is working offline
   • Look at the status bar at the bottom of the Outlook window.
   • If it shows Disconnected, Working Offline, or Trying to connect…, Outlook is not connected to the mail server.
   • On the ribbon, select the Send/Receive tab.
   • In the Preferences group, select Work Offline once to toggle back online.
   • If needed, open any unsent message and select Send, or choose Send/Receive to force a sync.
2. Confirm the Internet connection
   • Open a browser (for example, Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome).
   • Go to http://www.microsoft.com or http://www.bing.com.
   • If these sites do not load, resolve the network issue first (for example, reconnect Wi‑Fi or network cable) before trying Outlook again.
3. Check for large or stuck messages
   • In Outlook, open the Outbox folder.
   • Start with the oldest message.
   • If a message has a large attachment (for example, over 20 MB), delete the attachment or delete the message, then try sending a smaller file or a link instead.
   • After clearing large/stuck messages, try Send/Receive again.
4. Verify Outlook is not in a persistent disconnected state
   • If the status shows Disconnected even though the Internet works:
     • Try signing into the same mailbox via the web (for example, Outlook on the web). If mail works there, the server is fine and the issue is likely local Outlook configuration.
     • Ensure Windows and Office updates are installed, then restart Outlook and the PC.
5. If Outlook still cannot connect
   • If the problem persists and Outlook continues to show Disconnected or Working Offline despite the steps above, further profile or account repair may be required (for example, creating a new Outlook profile or repairing data files). This should be done carefully, ideally by the tech person when available.

References:

• I can't send or receive messages in Outlook
• Work offline in Outlook