Microsoft Outlook Error Code 0x80042108: How to Fix It

Easy 15-30 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
0x80042108
Brand
Outlook
Product Type
operating_system
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Fix Time
15-30 minutes
Error code 0x80042108 in Microsoft Outlook indicates that your email client cannot connect to the incoming mail server, typically due to incorrect port settings or authentication problems. This error prevents you from receiving emails and usually occurs when server settings are misconfigured or when your email provider has changed their security requirements.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 0x80042108

  1. Check Internet Connection

  2. Verify Email Account Settings

  3. Check and Update Port Numbers

  4. Update Authentication Method

  5. Enable App Passwords for Two-Factor Authentication

    Never share app passwords or use them for logging into websites directly

  6. Disable Antivirus Email Scanning

    Remember to re-enable antivirus protection after testing

  7. Test Account Settings

  8. Create New Outlook Profile

    Back up any important emails or data before creating a new profile
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When to Call a Professional

Contact your email provider's technical support if the error persists after trying all steps, as they may need to verify server settings or account status. For corporate email accounts, contact your IT administrator as they may need to update Exchange server settings or security policies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Outlook error 0x80042108 mean?
Error 0x80042108 means Outlook cannot connect to your incoming mail server, usually due to incorrect port settings, authentication problems, or server configuration issues.
Why does Outlook error 0x80042108 keep appearing?
This error typically recurs when your email provider has changed their server settings, your account requires app-specific passwords due to two-factor authentication, or your antivirus software is blocking the connection.
Can I fix Outlook error 0x80042108 without losing emails?
Yes, fixing this error won't delete your emails. However, it's always recommended to back up your Outlook data file (.pst) before making major configuration changes.
How do I find the correct email server settings for my provider?
Visit your email provider's support website and search for 'IMAP' or 'POP3 settings'. Major providers like Gmail, Yahoo, and Outlook.com have detailed setup guides with current server addresses and port numbers.
Should I use IMAP or POP3 for my email account?
IMAP is generally recommended as it syncs emails across multiple devices and keeps messages on the server. POP3 downloads emails to one device only. Most modern email providers prefer IMAP setup.

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