How to Set Up Xfinity Email in Classic Outlook 2024
Question details
The user needs to configure an Xfinity email account in Classic Outlook without being forced into using the New Outlook interface or a Microsoft email service.

- Product
- Microsoft Outlook 2024
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Adding a third-party ISP email address (Xfinity) to Outlook after purchasing Office Home & Business 2024.
- Observed behavior
- The system defaults to opening New Outlook, which may prevent standard configuration or push Microsoft 365 subscriptions. The Classic Outlook app remains installed but must be opened manually to set up the account normally.
Make sure you have your Xfinity email address and password ready, and verify that third-party access is enabled in your Xfinity account security settings online.
Open Classic Outlook to Add Your Account
Bypass the New Outlook interface to use the traditional Classic Outlook app for adding your Xfinity email account seamlessly.
Windows systems often have both New Outlook and Classic Outlook installed side-by-side. Opening the correct version is the key to bypassing unwanted Microsoft 365 prompts and setting up your Xfinity email successfully.
Press the Windows key and search for 'Outlook'. Look specifically for the app icon labeled 'Outlook (Classic)' instead of 'Outlook' which has the 'New' badge on it.
Click to open Outlook (Classic). If you are automatically redirected to New Outlook, look for the 'New Outlook' toggle switch in the top right corner of the window and turn it off to revert to the classic version.
In Classic Outlook, click on 'File' in the top left corner, make sure 'Info' is selected on the left panel, and then click the 'Add Account' button.
Type your Xfinity email address in the prompt, click 'Connect', and enter your password when requested. Allow Outlook to automatically detect the IMAP server settings.

Manually Configure Xfinity IMAP Settings
Use this method if Classic Outlook fails to automatically detect your Xfinity email server settings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I have two different Outlook apps installed on my computer?
Microsoft includes the 'New Outlook' by default with modern Windows updates as a replacement for the Windows Mail app. Meanwhile, installing Office 2024 adds 'Outlook (Classic)'. Both can exist on your computer simultaneously even if you uninstall Microsoft 365.
Can I switch back to Classic Outlook if I accidentally opened New Outlook?
Yes. In the New Outlook application, look for a toggle switch labeled 'New Outlook' in the top right corner. Turn it off, and the application will close and relaunch the Classic Outlook version.
Why isn't my Xfinity password working in Outlook?
First, ensure you are using your primary Xfinity password. Additionally, some providers require you to log into their web portal and explicitly enable a setting called 'Allow third-party applications' to grant access to email clients like Outlook.
Do I need an active Microsoft 365 subscription to use Outlook 2024?
No. If you purchased a standalone license like Office Home & Business 2024, it is a one-time purchase. You can use Classic Outlook to manage your emails without an ongoing Microsoft 365 subscription.




