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How to Fix: Outlook stuck in Offline Mode

Turn Outlook back online if it says “Working Offline”

Updated today

Step 1: Open Outlook

Start Outlook as usual. At the bottom right corner of the window, you may see the words Working Offline. This means Outlook is not connected to the internet.


Step 2: Go to the “Send/Receive” tab

At the very top of Outlook, you’ll see different tabs such as File, Home, Send/Receive, etc.

Click on the tab that says Send/Receive.


Step 3: Find the “Work Offline” button

Inside the Send/Receive tab, look for a button called Work Offline.

  • If Outlook is offline, this button will be highlighted (usually in a darker color).


Step 4: Click “Work Offline”

Click the Work Offline button once.

  • The highlight will disappear.

  • The words Working Offline at the bottom of Outlook should also disappear.

  • After a moment, you should see Connected to: [your email service] or just Connected.


Step 5: Test sending/receiving emails

Try sending yourself a quick test email. If it arrives, Outlook is now online and working normally.


Extra tip

If Outlook still doesn’t connect, check your internet connection or restart Outlook.

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