How do I change my default send address in Outlook the local version on my machine?

Question

I've set up a new primary alias for my Microsoft email but I like using Outlook on my laptop rather than the web-based version. I'd like it to default to the new Outlook.com address, which I have set up as a primary alias. How do I do this? It works everywhere else (webmail, Android phone) but not on Outlook on the laptop. I feel sure it's something obvious...

I don't know what version of Outlook it is but I have Windows 11 and Microsoft 365.

Thank you!

Answer 1

Dear Jo-cornet Thank you for letting me assist you!

I'm so glad to hear that your issue resolved itself! It's always a good feeling when things fix themselves. I'm just happy I could help in some way.

As for the New Outlook, whether you should try it depends on your needs and preferences. Here's a quick breakdown:

Pros of New Outlook:

Modern interface: New Outlook has a cleaner and more modern design compared to the classic version. Improved search: New Outlook boasts a more powerful search function, making it easier to find specific emails. Integration with other Microsoft apps: New Outlook offers better integration with other Microsoft apps like Teams and OneDrive. Performance improvements: New Outlook is generally considered faster and more responsive than the classic version.

Cons of New Outlook: Learning curve: If you're used to the classic Outlook, there might be a slight learning curve when switching to the New Outlook. Missing features: Some features you might be used to in the classic Outlook are not yet available in the New Outlook (though more are added regularly). Not perfect for everyone: Not everyone loves the changes in the New Outlook, and some prefer the familiar look and feel of the classic version.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to try the New Outlook is up to you. If you're curious about the new features and performance improvements, give it a try. You can always switch back to the classic version if you don't like it.

I hope this information helps! Feel free to ask if you have any other questions about the New Outlook or anything else. I'm always happy to help! Give back to the Community. Help the next person who has this issue by indicating if this reply solved your problem. Click Yes or No below. Kind Regards -Adedayo

Answer 2

For the benefit of anyone else having this problem, I have now realised exactly what has caused it! It went wrong again after a system update and reboot, and it seems that for the local version of Outlook to sync settings, I need to be logged into my Microsoft profile online. That's all!

Answer 3

Hi, I've noticed another related issue so I thought I would reopen this thread as you are an expert in this field. When I reply to a message sent to the primary alias, my reply defaults to the original mailbox address rather than the alias. How do I fix this?

Jo

Answer 4

Hi Adedayo, thanks so much for taking the time and going into so much detail. I fiddled around on the basis of your advice and I didn't think I had solved it. I was in the process of creating a screenshot to explain this, and during this process at some point I realised that it had corrected itself. I rated you with 4 stars but if I get a chance to give you a final resolved rating I definitely will, and I really appreciate this!

By the way, should I be trying the "new Outlook"?

Best wishes,

Jo

Answer 5

Hi Jo-cornet Greetings! Thank you for posting on Microsoft Community. I will be happy to help. I am a user just like you and only trying to advice/ assist in a best possible way I could resolve your issue.

You can change the default send address in Outlook for Windows. It's likely something small is preventing it from working correctly. Here are some things you can try:

1. Ensure your primary alias is set correctly: Open Outlook on your laptop. Click on File > Account Settings. In the Accounts tab, select the account you want to use as your default sender. Click Change Default Account. Choose the desired account with the new primary alias and click OK.
2. Check Send From settings: Open Outlook on your laptop. Click on New Email. Look for the From field, which might display your current default address. Click on the arrow next to the From field. A list of your email addresses should appear. Choose the one with your new primary alias. Click on Set as Default.
3. Verify account synchronization: Sometimes, changes in Outlook.com may not immediately reflect in the desktop app. Close Outlook completely and wait a few minutes. Re-open Outlook and check if the default send address is updated.
4. Review Send/Receive settings: Open Outlook on your laptop. Click on File > Info. Click on Account Settings > Account Settings. Double-click on the account you want to use as your default sender. Go to the Send/Receive tab. Click on Set as Default under Send messages from this account by default.
5. Consider updating Outlook: Sometimes, outdated versions of Outlook can have bugs or compatibility issues. Check if you have any pending updates for Outlook and install them if available.

Additional tips: Ensure you're using the latest version of Windows 11. Restart your computer after making any changes in Outlook. If you're still having trouble, try creating a new profile in Outlook and setting the desired account as the default sender there.

By trying these steps, you should be able to set your new primary alias as the default send address in Outlook for Windows. Remember, some changes might take a few minutes to fully propagate, so be patient and try again if the issue persists initially.

I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any further questions or need more specific guidance. Give back to the Community. Help the next person who has this issue by indicating if this reply solved your problem. Click Yes or No below. Kind Regards -Adedayo