Microsoft Warns Outlook for Microsoft 365 Users About Email Server Connection Issues
Microsoft has issued a warning to Outlook for Microsoft 365 users, stating that they may experience difficulties connecting to email servers via Exchange ActiveSync after a recent update. This raises concerns for users who rely on Exchange ActiveSync to access their email, calendar, contacts, and tasks.
According to Microsoft, the problem arises after updating to Version 2401 Build 17231.20182, as Outlook stops connecting when using the Exchange ActiveSync (EAS) protocol. While the Outlook Team is currently investigating the issue, a fix has not yet been provided.
EAS Syncing Issue Prompts Investigation and Workaround
While Microsoft continues to search for a solution to the syncing problem, affected users have been offered a temporary fix. They can revert their Office M365 Click-to-Run installations to an unaffected Office build or switch to an Office Channel that does not have this syncing issue.
To apply this workaround, affected users must disable updates temporarily and follow a specific procedure. This involves running specific command lines in the Command Prompt. Once the version revert process is complete, users can check if Outlook is operating normally again.
Outlook Security Alerts Triggered by Opening .ICS Calendar Files
In addition to the syncing issue, Microsoft is also investigating another problem related to Outlook security alerts. Users have reported receiving security alerts when attempting to open .ICS calendar files after installing December 2023 Patch Tuesday Office security updates.
This ongoing issue is expected to be addressed by Microsoft in the near future.
Recent Outlook Issues Causing Connection and Email Sending Problems
Microsoft has been dealing with several Outlook issues over the past few months. In a recent update, the company addressed a bug that was causing connection issues for both desktop and mobile email clients when using Outlook.com accounts.
In December, Microsoft fixed two other bugs. One was responsible for email sending issues for users with a large number of folders, while the other caused Outlook to crash when sending emails from Outlook.com accounts.
Microsoft continues to work on resolving these issues to ensure a smooth experience for Outlook users.
Analyst comment
Positive news: Microsoft is aware of the email server connection issues in Outlook for Microsoft 365 and is actively investigating and working on a solution. Users have been provided with a workaround to temporarily fix the syncing problem. Microsoft is also addressing security alerts with .ICS calendar files. The company has demonstrated its commitment to resolving previous Outlook issues and ensuring a smooth user experience. Market impact: Minimal impact expected as Microsoft is actively working on solutions and addressing user concerns.
