How to Manage Classic and New Outlook on the Same Windows PC
Question details
The user needs to manage both Classic and New Outlook simultaneously on their computer, prevent New Outlook from starting automatically, and troubleshoot sudden closures of Classic Outlook.

- Product
- Microsoft Outlook
- Device & OS
- Windows PC
- Scenario
- Using Classic Outlook and New Outlook on the same system while preventing conflicts or auto-start issues.
- Observed behavior
- New Outlook opens automatically against the user's preference, or Classic Outlook closes unexpectedly during use.
Ensure you have administrative privileges on your Windows PC, as you may need to modify startup applications or repair your Microsoft 365 installation.
Stop New Outlook from Opening Automatically
Use this solution to prevent New Outlook from launching on startup or to switch back to the Classic Outlook interface.
Classic Outlook and New Outlook are separate applications that can coexist. Classic Outlook is included with Microsoft 365, while New Outlook is a Store/WebView2-based application. If New Outlook is taking over, you can disable its auto-start behavior or uninstall it completely.
Open the New Outlook application and look for the 'New Outlook' toggle switch in the top right corner. Turn this switch off to revert to Classic Outlook.
Open Windows Settings, navigate to Apps, and click on Startup. Find 'Outlook' (the new version) in the list and toggle the switch to Off. Alternatively, open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), go to the Startup tab, right-click New Outlook, and select Disable.
If you do not want to use New Outlook at all, open Windows Settings, go to Apps, then Installed apps. Search for 'Outlook (new)', click the three dots next to it, and select Uninstall.

Troubleshoot Classic Outlook Closing Unexpectedly
Follow these steps if your Classic Outlook desktop application is crashing or closing without warning.
Try WPS Office for a Seamless and Lightweight Document Experience
If bulky applications and software conflicts in Microsoft Office are slowing down your workflow, consider switching to WPS Office. It is a highly compatible, lightweight, and free alternative that covers all your word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation needs in one integrated platform.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installation package for Windows.
- 2. Install the Suite: Run the downloaded file and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the lightweight installation process.
- 3. Open and Create: Launch WPS Office to instantly start creating, editing, and managing your essential documents with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I run Classic Outlook and New Outlook at the same time?
Yes, you can run both simultaneously. Classic Outlook is a traditional desktop application included with Microsoft 365, whereas New Outlook is a separate web-based Store app. They operate independently of each other.
Will uninstalling New Outlook delete my emails or affect Classic Outlook?
No. Uninstalling New Outlook from your Windows Settings will not affect your Classic Outlook installation, its profiles, or your email data. Your emails remain safely stored on your email server and within Classic Outlook.
Why did my computer switch to New Outlook automatically?
Microsoft sometimes enables the 'Try the new Outlook' toggle by default during Windows or Office updates to encourage adoption of the new app. You can easily turn this toggle off in the top right corner of the New Outlook window.
How do I make sure mail links open in Classic Outlook?
Go to Windows Settings > Apps > Default apps. Search for 'Outlook', select the Classic Outlook icon, and set it as the default application for 'MAILTO' protocols and email-related file types.




