Outlook Beta: Compatibility Issues with IMAP/SMTP & How to Revert to the Stable Version
The latest Outlook Beta promises a fresh experience with new features and an improved interface, but many users are facing unexpected issues—especially when it comes to IMAP/SMTP compatibility. If your email client suddenly stops sending or receiving messages, you’re not alone.
In this article, we’ll cover:
- Why Outlook Beta is causing problems with IMAP/SMTP servers
- How to troubleshoot these issues
- Steps to revert back to the stable version of Outlook
Outlook Beta & IMAP/SMTP Server Compatibility Issues
The Problem
Many users are reporting that IMAP and SMTP connections fail after updating to the new Outlook Beta. This means that emails either don’t send, don’t receive, or require constant password re-entry.
Common symptoms include:
✅ Unable to send emails via SMTP (e.g., “Authentication Failed” errors)
✅ Receiving errors when checking mail over IMAP
✅ “Sign-in Failure” notifications when using custom mail servers
✅ Saved passwords not working or constantly prompting for re-entry
This appears to be affecting users who rely on third-party email providers (like cPanel-hosted mail, Google Workspace, and Zoho Mail).
Possible Causes
•Microsoft’s security changes in the new Outlook may be interfering with third-party IMAP/SMTP setups.
•Auto-discovery errors in the new Beta may be overriding manually configured mail settings.
•TLS/SSL authentication bugs preventing proper connection to the mail server.
Troubleshooting Steps
Step 1: Manually Configure IMAP/SMTP Settings
1. Open Outlook Beta and navigate to Settings > Accounts
2.Remove the problematic email account
3.Re-add it manually, selecting IMAP instead of auto-configuring
4.Use the following settings:
•IMAP Server: mail.yourdomain.com (or check your hosting provider)
• IMAP Port: 993
•Encryption: SSL/TLS
• SMTP Server: mail.yourdomain.com
•SMTP Port: 465 (SSL) or 587 (STARTTLS)
• Authentication: Required
5.Save and restart Outlook
Step 2: Try Using the Direct IP Address Instead of Domain
Some users have reported success when using the server’s direct IP address instead of mail.yourdomain.com. This can bypass potential DNS resolution errors in Outlook Beta.
Step 3: Disable Firewall & Antivirus Interference
Security software (like Avast, Norton, or Windows Defender) may block email connections. Temporarily disable them and try again.
Step 4: Test on a Different Device
Try setting up your email on another email client (like Thunderbird or your phone’s mail app) to confirm if the issue is exclusive to Outlook Beta.
How to Revert from Outlook Beta to the Stable Version
If troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the issue, your best bet may be switching back to the stable version of Outlook. Here’s how:
Windows (Microsoft 365 App)
1. Open Outlook Beta
2. Click on File > Options
3.Look for a setting labeled “Try the new Outlook”
4.Toggle it OFF
5.Restart Outlook – it should revert back to the classic version
If the option is missing:
• Open Windows Settings > Apps > Installed Apps
•Search for Outlook
• Click Modify and select Revert to an earlier version
Mac (Outlook for macOS Beta Users)
1. Open Outlook
2. Click Help > Revert to Legacy Outlook
3.Restart the app
If you can’t find this option, uninstall and reinstall Office 365 from the official Microsoft site.
Frequently Asked Questions Solving Outlook Beta Issues
Go to File > Options > General and disable any compatibility settings. If problems persist, reinstall Outlook.
Some users are locked into the Beta program. Try opting out through Settings > Coming Soon Toggle or revert via Microsoft 365 Admin Center.
Outlook Beta may introduce changes that aren’t yet supported on iOS. Check for app updates or use an alternative email client like Apple Mail.
If you recently updated to Outlook Beta, it may have altered your email settings. Verify your IMAP/SMTP configuration or revert to the stable version.
Final Thoughts
While Outlook Beta introduces new features, it still has compatibility issues with third-party IMAP/SMTP mail servers. If your emails aren’t working, try manual configuration, bypassing DNS, or disabling security software.
However, if issues persist, reverting to the stable version of Outlook may be the best solution.
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