Outlook Error 0x800CCC0E: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Fix

Microsoft is well known for providing a popular email client used by many people for both business and personal communication. Even if it is quite a dependable email client, users mostly opt for it because of the advanced features that Outlook offers. But users often encounter errors that interrupt their workflow. The most frequently encountered error is Outlook error 0x800CCC0E, which occurs when Outlook cannot connect to the mail server; thus, the user is unable to send or receive emails.

When you search for a solution, you may come across many options that promise instant results. But first, we will explain what Outlook Error 0x800CCC0E is and how to determine whether this is the exact error causing the problem.

What is Outlook Error 0x800CCC0E?

The Outlook Error 0x800CCC0E is a server connection error which usually occurs when Microsoft cannot establish a stable connection with the outgoing or incoming mail server. The messages are often like:

1. Outlook cannot connect to the Outlook(SMTP) server.
2. Error Code: 0x800CCC0E
3. Connection to the server failed.

This error occurs mostly in desktop applications of Outlook and is commonly due to incorrect email configuration, poor internet connection, firewall issues, etc.

What are the Common Reasons for Outlook Error 0x800CCC0E?

Knowing exactly what triggers the error will also give you a better chance of fixing it. The first reason for the error is as follows:

• Incorrect Email Server Settings: In case the SMTP, POP, or IMAP server settings or credentials are not correct, Outlook would be unable to connect with the email server and thus show the error.
• Weak or Unstable Internet Connection: If your network connection is weak or unstable, the mail server will not be able to communicate with the user.
• Antivirus or Firewall: The security software can sometimes mistakenly identify Outlook’s network activity as a threat or simply disable the required communication port (like SMTP port 587 or 465). This prevents Outlook from performing the task properly. For more details, check out: How to fix Outlook not receiving emails?
• Large Outbox or corrupted Emails: If there are extremely large messages or some corrupted items in the Outlook folder, these can become a source of trouble for the normal Send/Receive Process. Thus, the Outlook may be stuck in a loop trying to handle the corrupted or oversized emails, so the connection may be blocked.
• Corrupted Outlook Profile: Sometimes,​‍​‌‍​‍‌ an Outlook profile which has been kept for a long time can become damaged or corrupted. In case the OST or PST data file is involved, it may cause various types of synchronisation issues, whereby, among other things, it may be impossible to connect to the server. As a result, Outlook error 0x800CCC0E may occur.

How to Know the Error:

• Email fails to send or receive.
• SMTP connection timeout warning
• Frequent “Server not responding” messages.

Check out the article: How to Fix Outlook keeps disconnecting from Exchange Server?

How to Fix the Issue Outlook Error 0x800CCC0E?

You can resolve Outlook Error 0x800CCC0E by following the troubleshooting methods listed below.

Enable SMTP Authentication

• Open Account Setting in Outlokk
• Select the Email account and click More settings
• Go to the Outgoing Server tab.
• Check My outgoing server (SMTP) requires authentication.
• Select the same settings as my incoming mail server.
• Click Ok and restart Outlook.

Disable Antivirus and Firewall to Fix Outlook Application Error 0x800CCC0E

There’s a chance your security software might have blocked it, causing “Outlook Error 0x800CCC0E”.

• Temporarily disable the antivirus software.
• Turn off the Windows Firewall.
• Try sending an email again.

If this overcomes the issue “Outlook Error 0x800CCC0E”, then add Outlook as an exception in the antivirus/firewall. Then re-enable security.

Change the SMTP Port

In case the ISP is blocking the default port, changing it will resolve the issues.

• Go to Account settings > More Settings > Advanced.
• Change the outgoing server(SMTP) port:
• Try 587 or 465
• Click Ok and save changes.

Create a New Outlook profile

A corrupted Outlook profile often causes connection errors.

• Open the Control Panel.
• Go to Mail > Show Profiles.
• Click Add to create a new profile.
• Configure the email account again.
• Select Always use this profile and choose the new new new.

Verify Email Server Settings

Incorrect server details can prevent Outlook from connecting, which could lead to Outlook Error 0x800CCC0E.

1. Confirm the SMTP server name provided by the email service provider.
2. Double-check the username and password.
3. Ensure the correct encryption type is selected.

Correct any incorrect details and restart the Outlook application.

Repair Outlook Data Files (OST/PST)

Damaged OST or PST files can lead to synchronisation and server errors.

1. Close Outlook.
2. Run the Inbox Repair Tool (ScanPST.exe)
3. Select the affected OST or PST file and start the repair process.
4. Restart Outlook after the repair is complete.

Updated Outlook

Using an outdated Outlook version causes compatibility issues:

1. >Open Outlook and go to File > Office Accounts.
2. Click Update Options > Update Now.
3. Install available updates and restart Outlook.

Conclusion

Outlook Error 0x800CCC0E is a common issue that can be resolved and typically occurs when there are difficulties connecting to the server. By verifying the network connection, fixing the email settings, enabling SMTP authentication, and adjusting firewall or antivirus settings, you can resolve the error without any trouble. If the problem persists, setting up a new Outlook profile and, finally, contacting the email provider will likely be the way to restore smooth email communication. If we carry out the appropriate troubleshooting steps, there is a chance that Outlook will function normally again without a significant interruption.