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Error codeMicrosoft OutlookClassic Outlook for Windows
Microsoft Outlook: "Trying to connect…"
Outlook can't reach the mail server
The status bar shows this, or Disconnected, when classic Outlook can't reach your email server, so mail stops syncing and sending.
How to fix "Trying to connect…"
On the Send/Receive tab, click Work Offline to switch offline mode off and on.
Open a website in your browser to check that your internet connection works.
If you changed your email password, update it in Outlook.
Repair Outlook or your Outlook profile if the status stays the same.
From Microsoft Outlook's help pages: support.microsoft.com, in our words. Checked on 5 November 2026. If the steps do not help, Microsoft Outlook's own support is the next stop.
More Microsoft Outlook errors and common problems
- Can't sign inPassword, username or account access problems
- Emails not arrivingFull storage, rules, filters or Junk folder
- Emails stuck in OutboxUsually a large attachment or offline mode
- Outlook not respondingHangs on Processing, freezes or stops working
- Keeps asking for passwordPassword changed or expired with your provider
- You've tried to sign in too many timesSign-in blocked after repeated wrong passwords
All Microsoft Outlook errors and common problemsLive Microsoft Outlook status