How to Find Outlook SMTP Server Settings? – [2026 Guide]

Email issues can be surprisingly frustrating—especially when Outlook suddenly stops sending messages. Whether you’re setting up Outlook on a new device, configuring a third-party email app, or troubleshooting emails stuck in Outlook, one question comes up again and again:

How to find the SMTP server in Outlook?

You’re not alone. This complete guide explains what an SMTP server is, why it matters, and how to find SMTP server settings in any version of Outlook—Windows, Mac, Outlook 365, and Outlook Web—step by step.

What is an SMTP Server?

SMTP stands for Simple Mail Transfer Protocol. It’s the technology that sends emails from your email client (like Outlook) to the recipient’s mail server.

Think of it like this:

• SMTP – Sends emails
• IMAP / POP – Receives emails

Without correct SMTP server details, Outlook may still receive emails—but it won’t be able to send them.

Why Are SMTP Server Settings Important in Outlook?

You may need Outlook SMTP server details in several real-world situations:

• Setting up Outlook on a new computer or phone.
• Adding your Outlook email to another email client (Gmail, Apple Mail, Thunderbird, etc.)
• Emails are stuck in the Outlook Outbox or failing to send.
• Manual email configuration for apps, CRMs, or websites.
• Requests from IT administrators or hosting providers.

In short, SMTP settings are essential for smooth email delivery.

Outlook SMTP Settings (Default)

If you’re using an Outlook.com or Microsoft account in another email app:

• SMTP Server: smtp.office.com
• Port: 587
• Encryption: STARTTLS

Incoming Mail (Optional)

• IMAP: outlook.office365.com (Port 993, TLS)
• POP: outlook.office365.com (Port 995, TLS)

Everyday User Scenarios Where SMTP Details Are Needed

SMTP configuration becomes essential when:

• Automatic account setup fails
• You reinstall Outlook or switch devices
• Your email provider changes server requirements
• Security settings (port or encryption) need updating

Knowing where to find these settings saves time and avoids unnecessary troubleshooting.

How to Find an SMTP Server in Any Outlook?

1. Finding SMTP Server in Outlook (Windows Desktop)

Outlook 2016, 2019, 2021, and Microsoft 365.

1. Open Microsoft Outlook.
2. Click File in the top-left corner.
3. Select Account Settings, then open Account Settings again.
4. Choose your email account and click Change.
5. Look for Outgoing mail servers (SMTP).
6. Click More Settings > Advanced to view:
   • SMTP port number
   • Encryption type (TLS / SSL)

That is where Outlook stores the SMTP server name, port, and security-related settings.

2. Finding the SMTP Server in Outlook for Mac

If you’re using Outlook on macOS:

1. Open Outlook.
2. Click Outlook in the top menu > Preferences.
3. Select Accounts.
4. Choose your email account.
5. Click Advanced.
6. Here you’ll see:
   • SMTP Server address
   • Port number
   • Encryption method

3. Finding SMTP Server in Outlook 365 (Windows – Classic Outlook)

If you’re using Outlook 365 in classic mode:

1. Open Outlook and go to File.
2. Click Info.
3. Select Account Settings > Account Settings.
4. Double-click the email account.
5. Under Server Information, find the SMTP server.
6. Click More Settings > Advanced for port details.

SMTP settings are not editable for Microsoft Exchange accounts because Outlook handles outgoing mail internally. You will only see these fields if using IMAP or POP3 protocols.

4. Finding SMTP Server in Outlook Web (Outlook.com / New Outlook)

Outlook on the web doesn’t allow direct SMTP editing, but you can still view server details:

1. Log in to Outook.com.
2. Click the gear icon (Settings).
3. Select View all Outlook settings.
4. Go to Mail > Sync email.
5. Scroll to POP and IMAP settings.

Note: Microsoft Exchange or Outlook.com accounts don’t always show SMTP fields because they use Exchange services internally.

Where to Find the SMTP Server in Outlook 365

• Windows: File > Account Settings > Change > SMTP
• Mac: Outlook > Preferences > Accounts > Advanced
• Web: Settings > Mail > Sync email

Standard SMTP Server Settings (Popular Providers)

Always confirm details with your email provider for accuracy.

Troubleshooting SMTP Issues in Outlook

If emails still won’t send, check these basics:

• Stable internet connection
• Correct SMTP server name
• Correct port number (587 or 465)
• TLS or SSL is enabled
• Username and password are correct
• Firewall or antivirus is not blocking SMTP

Switching between ports 465 and 587 often resolves or fixes connection issues.

SMTP Authentication: A Must-Check Setting in Outlook

Most SMTP servers require authentication, or won’t send emails unless Outlook proves who you are.

• Make sure:
  • “My outgoing server (SMTP) requires authentication” is enabled
  • You use the same username and password for incoming mail
• Path:
  • More Settings > Outgoing Server

Avoiding Common SMTP Setup Mistakes

• Typos in the server address
• Wrong port or encryption type
• Authentication unchecked
• ISP blocking SMTP ports
• Outdated Outlook version

Small mistakes can cause big headaches—double-check everything.

How to Test SMTP Server Settings?

 The fastest way to confirm everything works:

• Send a test email to yourself
• Use Outlook’s ‘Test Account Settings’ option
• Check the Outlook for stuck messages
• Review  error messages for clues

Successful tests confirm your SMTP setup is working correctly.

Also Read: IMAP vs POP3 – Which Email Protocol Is Right for You

Gist of the Blog:

Finding the SMTP server in Outlook isn’t difficult—it’s just hidden in different places depending on the version you’re using. Once you know where to look, troubleshooting email sending issues becomes far less stressful.

With the correct Outlook SMTP server name, port, and authentication settings, you can confidently set up Outlook on any device or email client without fear of emails getting stuck.

If all else fails, your email provider or IT team can always confirm the exact SMTP details you need.

Frequently Asked Questions:-