Outlook: Switch between online and offline mode

Microsoft Outlook has an offline mode. This is especially useful on the go - Outlook shows you annoying error messages without an internet connection. In this practical tip, you will read how to activate offline mode.

Activate offline mode in Outlook 2010 and 2012.

1. Open Microsoft Outlook as usual.
2. Click the "Send and Receive" menu.
3. The "Work offline" button appears in the menu bar on the right.
4. With a click on the button Outlook is in offline mode.
5. If you want to switch back to online mode, click the button again.

Enable offline mode in Microsoft Outlook 2003 and 2007

In the older versions of Microsoft Outlook you can go to offline mode via the "File" -> "Work offline" menu.