Unable to Set Automatic Reply in Classic / Legacy Outlook

Issue/Question

When trying to set an Automatic Reply within Outlook, I receive error

Your automatic reply settings cannot be displayed because the server is currently unavailable. Try again later.

Environment

  • Classic / Legacy Outlook
    • Windows 10/11
    • macOS

Cause

Microsoft will end support for Legacy Outlook for Mac on October 1, 2025, and Classic Outlook for Windows on October 1, 2026. In preparation for these changes, Microsoft has begun depreciating services used by Legacy Outlook, particularly Exchange Web Services (EWS).

Resolution

Automatic Replies must be set from Outlook Web Access, or via the New Outlook application.

Enabling New Outlook for Windows

  1. Click toggle next to Try the new Outlook (top right corner).
  2. Click Switch.
  3. You may be prompted that a new version is required. Click OK.
  4. Outlook will close and New Outlook will open.

Enabling New Outlook for Mac

  1. Click Outlook (top left corner).
  2. Click Legacy Outlook.
  3. Click Switch to Outlook.
  4. Outlook will close and New Outlook will open.
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