Quick answer
Removing an account from Outlook removes that client setup, not the hosted mailbox. Verify recovery of local-only messages, contacts and calendar data first.
Applies to
Historical reference for Outlook 2016 while moving to a supported mail client. Microsoft ended Office 2016 support on October 14, 2025. Classic Outlook, new Outlook and other clients use different menus. Preserve local-only mail and contacts before migration.
Steps
- Identify the exact account and preserve required local data files using the supported export/backup route. Verify the copy can be used before removal.
- In the older interface, open File > Account Settings > Account Settings, select the account and choose Remove.
- Read the local/offline data warning before confirming. Move to the supported replacement client without deleting the server mailbox.
Check the result
Confirm only the intended client entry was removed and required server mail remains available in webmail.
Troubleshooting and support
If you cannot distinguish local-only data from synchronized mail, stop and verify the recovery plan before proceeding.
If the problem continues, contact support from the account that owns the service. Include the domain, exact error, time and time zone, tool name, and a redacted screenshot. Keep passwords, private keys, cookies and private message content out of the ticket.
Video tutorial
The original video is preserved. Its interface or product version may differ from the written guidance above.
Related help
- Find the correct secure IMAP and SMTP settings for your mailbox
- Use webmail to separate a mailbox problem from a device problem
Official references
Written content reviewed November 1, 2026. Menu availability depends on the product version, permissions and service.
