Fix Outlook send and receive problems
Applies to: Outlook for Windows and Outlook on the web
Last updated: September 18, 2026
- Confirm the PC is online. Outlook on the web at outlook.com is a fast way to see whether the mailbox itself is fine.
- In the desktop app, open the Outbox. A large or very old message can block everything behind it. Delete or move that draft.
- If Outlook keeps asking for a password, update it through the account provider, then enter the new password in Outlook.
- Send a new message to yourself. If web mail works and the app does not, recreate the profile or repair the Office install.
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