How to revert to old Outlook on Mac: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you feeling nostalgic for the old Outlook on your Mac, or maybe the new update just isn’t your cup of tea? No worries, reverting back to the previous version of Outlook on your Mac is a straightforward process. After reading this quick overview, you’ll be ready to take on the task with ease. Let’s dive in!

Step by Step Tutorial: Reverting to Old Outlook on Mac

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, it’s important to know that following these steps will take you back to the familiar interface and features of the Outlook version you were using before the update.

Step 1: Open Outlook on your Mac

Starting the process is as simple as opening the Outlook application on your Mac.

When you open Outlook, make sure you’re connected to the internet, as some steps may require access to online services.

Step 2: Navigate to the ‘Help’ Menu

Click on the ‘Help’ menu located at the top of your screen.

The ‘Help’ menu is typically found in the menu bar at the top of the screen when Outlook is the active application.

Step 3: Check for Updates

In the ‘Help’ menu, select the ‘Check for Updates’ option.

This step will open the Microsoft AutoUpdate tool, which is used for managing updates for all Microsoft applications on your Mac.

Step 4: Choose to Revert to an Older Version

Look for an option to revert or install an older version of Outlook within the Microsoft AutoUpdate tool.

The option to revert to an older version may not be immediately obvious, so take your time to carefully read through the options presented in the Microsoft AutoUpdate tool.

Step 5: Follow the Prompts to Downgrade

Follow the on-screen prompts to begin the process of downgrading to the previous version of Outlook.

The downgrade process might take a few minutes, depending on your internet speed and the size of the update.

After you’ve completed these steps, Outlook on your Mac should be restored to the version you were using before the update. The familiar interface and features will be right there waiting for you!

Tips: Enhancing Your Outlook Experience on Mac

  • Keep your Outlook application up to date with security patches, even if you prefer an older version.
  • Regularly back up your Outlook data to prevent loss during any transitions between versions.
  • Customize your Outlook toolbar to have quick access to the features you use the most.
  • Familiarize yourself with keyboard shortcuts to improve your efficiency in Outlook.
  • Explore Outlook’s add-ins to add new functionality that can enhance your email and calendar experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I revert to an older version of Outlook if I’m using macOS Big Sur?

Yes, you can typically revert to an older version of Outlook regardless of your macOS version, as long as the version of Outlook is compatible with Big Sur.

Will I lose any emails or settings by reverting to an older version of Outlook?

In most cases, your emails and settings should remain intact when downgrading. However, it’s always smart to back up your data beforehand.

What if the ‘Check for Updates’ option is grayed out?

If the ‘Check for Updates’ option is grayed out, it may be because your Outlook is managed by an organization, or you need administrative privileges on your Mac.

Can I still receive support from Microsoft if I revert to an older version of Outlook?

Support availability depends on the version of Outlook you revert to. Generally, Microsoft provides support for recent versions, but very old versions may no longer be supported.

Where can I find the Microsoft AutoUpdate tool?

The Microsoft AutoUpdate tool is typically located in the ‘Applications’ folder within a subfolder named ‘Microsoft’. It can also be accessed through the ‘Check for Updates’ option in the ‘Help’ menu of Outlook.

Summary

  1. Open Outlook on your Mac.
  2. Click on the ‘Help’ menu.
  3. Select ‘Check for Updates’.
  4. Choose to revert to an older version.
  5. Follow the prompts to downgrade.

Conclusion

Reverting to the old Outlook on Mac can be a breath of fresh air for those who prefer the familiar over the new. It’s a reminder that, though technology constantly evolves, there’s value in the tried and true. This guide provides an easy path to regain that sense of digital comfort. Remember, it’s always essential to back up your data, just in case. And who knows, maybe giving the new version another chance in the future might surprise you with features you’ll grow to love. As technology adapts to our needs, we too can learn to adapt and embrace change. However, until then, enjoy your good old Outlook on Mac.