Outlook: Connection Issues with Outlook (Classic) on iSchool Windows Devices
Start by confirming that you are using Outlook (Classic), a separate product from New Outlook.
Both may simply named 'Outlook' on your computer, or they may have distinct names. The simplest way to confirm which product you are using is by looking at the icons below and then checking which one you see on your own computer.
Outlook (Classic) has a flat edge on the top of it's icon:
New Outlook uses an icon with a pointed top:
To resolve your issue, choose one of the following options:
Option 1: Repair Classic Outlook
Follow these instructions to fix issues with your current Outlook application and continue using Classic Outlook:
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Click the Windows Start button or search settings in the Taskbar.
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Select Settings (gear icon).
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Select Apps from the left menu.
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Click Installed Apps in the top-right corner.
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In Installed Apps, scroll to ‘Microsoft 365 Apps for enterprise – en-us.’ Click the three dots next to it.
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Select Modify. Click Yes on the user control window that pops up.
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There will be two options: Quick Repair or Online Repair. Select Online Repair (the bottom choice).
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Click Repair and follow the prompts on your screen to continue. It will mention that you will need an internet connection, and all Office applications must be closed.
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Once the repair is complete (about 10 minutes), reopen Outlook (it may now appear as “Outlook (Classic)”) and confirm that it is working properly.
Option 2: Switch to New Outlook
Follow these instructions to start using the New Outlook experience, which will soon replace Classic Outlook:
- Click the Windows Start button or search for Outlook in the Taskbar.
- You will see two Outlook options. Refer to the icon images at the top of this page to identify New Outlook. It has a pointed top on its icon, like an open envelope.
- New Outlook will open, and you can start using it. It looks different from classic Outlook, similar to webmail, and uses a different process for adding shared mailboxes , but it functions the same.
Option 3: Switch to Outlook on the Web (Webmail)
Follow these steps to use Outlook through your browser for a stable and up-to-date experience:
- Click the following link and open webmail in your browser.
- Sign in with your University NetID and password. You may be signed in automatically on campus.
- Outlook on the web will open. It has its own process for accessing shared mailboxes.
If you have questions or need help during this process, please reach out to the iSchool Help Desk:
- Call us at 217-244-4903 or 800-377-1892
- Message us online via Tech Chat
- Email ischool-support@illinois.edu