Exchange Connection Problems

Fix Outlook Cannot Connect to the Server in Microsoft 365

Chanuka Geekiyanage Oct 16, 2026 868 views

Question details

Users are encountering a temporary server error preventing Outlook from connecting to the server when using Microsoft 365, often after an email provider migration.

How to Fix Outlook Cannot Connect to the Server in Microsoft 365

Product: Microsoft Outlook / Microsoft 365
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to access emails in Outlook after a mail service migration (such as GoDaddy to Microsoft 365) or when utilizing an incompatible email profile type.
Observed behavior: Outlook fails to authenticate or synchronize emails, displaying a temporary server error message indicating it cannot connect to the server.

Before you start

Verify that your computer has an active internet connection and ensure you know your current Microsoft 365 login credentials before modifying your Outlook profile settings.

Solution 1Recommended

Recreate the Outlook Profile for Microsoft Exchange

Creating a new profile configures your account to use the proper Exchange or Microsoft 365 protocols, which is necessary after an email service migration.

When email services are migrated to Microsoft 365, older profiles (like POP or IMAP) become incompatible. Setting up a fresh Exchange profile ensures secure and reliable synchronization.

Open the Mail Setup

Close Microsoft Outlook. Open the Windows Control Panel, change the view to Small or Large icons, and click on 'Mail (Microsoft Outlook)'.

Add a New Profile

Click the 'Show Profiles' button. In the new window, click 'Add', type a recognizable name for your new profile, and click 'OK'.

Configure Exchange Account

Enter your name, your Microsoft 365 email address, and your password. Click 'Next' to allow the Auto Account Setup to automatically configure the account as an Exchange profile.

Set as Default

Once setup is complete, return to the Mail window, select 'Always use this profile', choose your newly created profile from the dropdown menu, and click 'OK'. Restart Outlook.

Profile Configuration Successful: Upon restarting, Outlook should immediately prompt for authentication and seamlessly connect to the Microsoft 365 server.

Solution 2

Clear Outdated Work or School Credentials

Removing old, cached passwords from Windows Credential Manager forces Outlook to request fresh authentication from the Microsoft 365 server.

Solution 3

Check Proxy Settings and Disable Third-Party Antivirus

Overly strict network security configurations or incorrect proxy settings can block Outlook from communicating with Microsoft 365 servers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Outlook showing a temporary server error after migrating from GoDaddy to Microsoft 365?

This error typically happens because the previous Outlook profile was configured using IMAP or POP protocols, which are not compatible with the new Microsoft 365 environment. You must create a new Outlook profile and configure it as an Exchange account to resolve the issue.

Will recreating my Outlook profile delete my existing emails?

No, your emails, calendars, and contacts are safely stored on the Microsoft 365 servers. When you create a new Exchange profile, Outlook will automatically sync and download all your data directly from the server.

How do I know if my proxy settings are blocking Outlook?

If a proxy server is improperly configured on your network, it can prevent Outlook from reaching the internet. You can verify this by pressing Windows + R, typing 'inetcpl.cpl', navigating to Connections > LAN Settings, and ensuring 'Automatically detect settings' is enabled while manual proxy options are disabled.

Does WPS Office include an email client to replace Outlook?

WPS Office is focused on providing top-tier word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation applications. While it does not include a standalone desktop email client, it allows you to effortlessly share documents via your default web or desktop email service.

Outlook & Email Problems