outlook not updating

Question

outlook not updating; can't receive new emails since February 8, 2026

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Moved from: Microsoft 365 and Office | Other

Answer 1

Hello Robert Mccartney

Thank you for reaching out to Microsoft Q&A Forum. I understand how worrying it is when Outlook.com stops updating, especially since you haven’t received any new emails since February 8.

Please try the following steps:

1. Double-check Outlook on the web

• Sign in to Outlook on the web via a browser
• Check all folders (Inbox, Junk Email, Deleted Items, Archive), ensure your inbox filter is set to All (not "Unread", "Flagged", etc.)
• Check Focused / Other tab (if Focused Inbox is enabled), emails may land in Other. You can also temporarily turn Focused Inbox off to test.

2. Check Inbox rules/forwarding 

In Outlook on the web's settings, go to:  

• Settings > Mail > Rules/ Sweep: delete any suspicious rules you did not create (especially rules that moves/deletes mail)
• Settings > Mail > Forwarding: make sure nothing is forwarding

3. Check your internet connection

• Sign out of Outlook on the web completely then sign back in and check whether new emails appear.
• Make sure your device has a stable internet connection and try switching networks between Wi-Fi and mobile hotspot, then test again.
• Check from a different browser/device or from an InPrivate/Incognito window,
• If needed, you can then clear the browser cache/cookies for Outlook.com.

4. Check your storage

Still in Outlook web, go to Settings > Account > Storage and free up space if needed.

For more details, you can see these official guide:

• Fix email sync issues by removing a device from your Outlook mailbox - Microsoft Support
• Email is missing from your Outlook.com inbox - Microsoft Support

Please feel free to let me know how it goes and I’d happy to help you further. Thank you for your time and understanding.

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