How To Update Microsoft Outlook: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Published on November 5, 2025

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Keeping your Microsoft Outlook application up-to-date is crucial for ensuring you have the latest features, security enhancements, and bug fixes. An outdated Outlook can lead to performance issues, compatibility problems, and even security vulnerabilities. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to updating Microsoft Outlook, ensuring you’re always running the best version possible.

Whether you’re using Outlook as part of a Microsoft 365 subscription or as a standalone application, the update process is generally straightforward. By following these instructions, you can quickly and easily update your Outlook and enjoy a smoother, more secure email experience.

How Do I Update My Microsoft Outlook?

Updating Microsoft Outlook is generally a simple process, but it can vary slightly depending on how you obtained Outlook and your operating system. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you through the process:

Update Outlook Through Microsoft 365

If you have Outlook as part of a Microsoft 365 subscription, the update process is usually automatic. However, you can manually check for and install updates:

Open Outlook: Launch the Microsoft Outlook application.
Go to File: Click on the “File” tab in the top-left corner of the Outlook window.
Select Account: In the left-hand menu, click on “Office Account” or “Account” (the wording may vary slightly depending on your version).
Update Options: Under “Product Information,” you should see “Office Updates.” Click on “Update Options.”
Choose Update Now: Select “Update Now” from the dropdown menu. Outlook will then check for and install any available updates.
Restart Outlook: Once the updates are installed, restart Outlook to apply the changes.

Update Outlook as a Standalone Application

If you purchased Outlook as a standalone application, the update process is similar but might require a different approach:

Open Outlook: Launch the Microsoft Outlook application.
Go to File: Click on the “File” tab in the top-left corner of the Outlook window.
Select Help: Look for a “Help” option, usually located towards the bottom of the left-hand menu.
Check for Updates: Within the “Help” section, there should be an option to “Check for Updates.” Click on it.
Install Updates: If updates are available, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install them.
Restart Outlook: After the updates are installed, restart Outlook to ensure all changes are applied correctly.

Enable Automatic Updates

To ensure you always have the latest version of Outlook without manually checking, enable automatic updates:

Follow steps 1-4 from the “Update Outlook Through Microsoft 365” instructions above to get to the “Update Options” menu.
Choose Enable Updates: Select “Enable Updates” from the dropdown menu. This will ensure that Outlook automatically checks for and installs updates in the background.

Troubleshoot Update Issues

If you encounter problems during the update process, try the following:

Check Your Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection.
Restart Your Computer: Sometimes a simple restart can resolve update issues.
Run the Office Repair Tool: Go to “Control Panel” > “Programs and Features,” find Microsoft Office in the list, right-click, and select “Change.” Then, choose “Repair.”
Temporarily Disable Antivirus: Antivirus software can sometimes interfere with updates. Temporarily disable it and try again.

Tips for a Smooth Update

Save Your Work: Before starting the update process, save all your work in Outlook and other applications.
Close Other Applications: Close any other open applications to prevent conflicts during the update.
Schedule Updates: If possible, schedule updates for a time when you’re not actively using Outlook to minimize disruption.

Comparing Update Methods

Here’s a quick comparison of the different methods for updating Outlook:

Method	Requirements	Automation Level	Complexity
Microsoft 365 Update	Microsoft 365 Subscription	High	Low
Standalone Application Update	Purchased standalone Outlook application	Low	Medium
Automatic Updates	Any Outlook version (if enabled)	High	Low

Keeping Outlook Secure and Up-to-Date

By following these steps, you can ensure that your Microsoft Outlook application is always up-to-date, providing you with the best possible email experience. Regular updates not only bring new features but also protect you from potential security threats.

FAQ

How often should I update Microsoft Outlook? You should update Microsoft Outlook whenever updates are available. If you have automatic updates enabled, this will happen in the background.

What happens if I don’t update Outlook? If you don’t update Outlook, you may miss out on new features, bug fixes, and security enhancements, potentially making your system vulnerable to threats.

Can I update Outlook on my phone? Yes, you can update the Outlook app on your phone through the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).

Why is my Outlook not updating? There could be several reasons, including a poor internet connection, conflicting software, or issues with the update service. Try restarting your computer or running the Office repair tool.

Is it free to update Microsoft Outlook? Yes, updates are free for users with a valid Microsoft 365 subscription or a purchased standalone version of Outlook.

Ensuring Your Outlook Stays Current

Keeping your Microsoft Outlook updated is essential for optimal performance and security. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily maintain the latest version and take advantage of all the benefits it offers.