Fix Outlook Stuck on Requesting Data from Server
Question details
The user is unable to access their emails because the Outlook desktop application freezes with a specific server request message, and the web version returns an error.
- Product
- Microsoft Outlook
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Opening the Outlook desktop client or accessing Outlook on the web to read and manage emails.
- Observed behavior
- Outlook on the web displays an error message, and the Outlook desktop application remains stuck on 'Requesting data from server' without loading the mailbox.
Verify your internet connection stability and visit the Microsoft 365 Service Health status page to rule out any ongoing server outages affecting Exchange Online before troubleshooting local app issues.
Test Outlook in Safe Mode and Disable Add-ins
Starting Outlook in Safe Mode bypasses third-party add-ins, helping you identify if a faulty plugin is causing the server connection to hang.
Often, conflicting third-party integrations prevent Outlook from successfully communicating with the Exchange server. Safe mode allows you to isolate and disable these problematic extensions.
Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box. Type 'outlook.exe /safe' and press Enter. If prompted, select your default Outlook profile and click OK.
If Outlook opens successfully in Safe Mode, click on 'File' in the top left corner, select 'Options', and then click on 'Add-ins' from the left sidebar.
At the bottom of the window, ensure 'COM Add-ins' is selected in the Manage dropdown and click 'Go...'. Uncheck all add-ins in the list and click OK. Restart Outlook normally to see if the issue is resolved.
Update and Repair the Office Installation
Run the built-in Office repair tool to fix corrupted installation files that may be preventing Outlook from launching or connecting to the server.
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- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button for your operating system.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Outlook keep saying 'Requesting data from server'?
This message appears when the Outlook client fails to establish or maintain a stable connection with the Microsoft Exchange server. It is typically caused by a poor internet connection, a Microsoft 365 service outage, or a malfunctioning third-party add-in.
How do I know if Microsoft 365 is experiencing an outage?
You can check the official Microsoft 365 Service Health portal via a web browser. If you do not have admin access, check the official Microsoft 365 Status account on social media or try logging into the Outlook Web App (OWA) from a different device.
Will repairing Microsoft Office delete my emails?
No. Running the Quick Repair or Online Repair tools will only scan and fix the application files. Your emails, contacts, and calendar items are stored safely on the Exchange server or in your local data file (.OST/.PST), which will not be deleted.
What should I do if Safe Mode does not fix the Outlook connection issue?
If Outlook still gets stuck while in Safe Mode, your Outlook user profile may be corrupted. You can create a new profile by opening the Windows Control Panel, navigating to 'Mail (Microsoft Outlook)', and clicking 'Show Profiles' to add a fresh profile.
