Getting emails from someone you've blocked can be frustrating, but unblocking them in Outlook is a straightforward process. This guide will walk you through the steps, regardless of whether you're using the Outlook desktop application or the web version. We'll cover different scenarios and offer troubleshooting tips to ensure a smooth experience.
Unblocking in Outlook Desktop App
The process for unblocking someone in the Outlook desktop application differs slightly depending on your Outlook version. However, the core principle remains the same.
Step 1: Accessing Blocked Senders List:
The exact location of the blocked senders list varies depending on your Outlook version. You might find it under:
- File > Options > Mail > Blocked Senders: This is a common location in many Outlook versions.
- Junk > Junk Email Options: Look for a "Blocked Senders" tab within these options.
Step 2: Locating and Removing the Blocked Sender:
Once you've located the blocked senders list, you should see a list of email addresses or domains that you've blocked. Find the email address you want to unblock.
Step 3: Unblocking the Email Address:
Select the email address you wish to unblock. You'll typically see an option to remove them from the list, often a button labeled "Remove" or a similar action. Click that button to unblock the sender.
Step 4: Verification:
After removing the email address, it's a good idea to check your junk folder. While the sender should now appear in your inbox, sometimes messages might linger in the junk folder.
Unblocking in Outlook Web App (OWA)
Unblocking someone in the Outlook web app is also relatively straightforward:
Step 1: Accessing Settings:
Click on the gear icon (settings) located usually in the upper right corner of your Outlook web app.
Step 2: Navigating to Blocked Senders:
Within the settings menu, look for options related to "Mail," "Junk Email," or "Blocked Senders." The exact wording might vary slightly.
Step 3: Removing the Blocked Sender:
Once you find the blocked senders list, locate the email address or domain you want to unblock. Remove it using the provided option, usually a "Remove" button or similar.
Step 4: Checking Junk and Inbox:
Similar to the desktop app, check your junk email folder to ensure no lingering messages are stuck there.
Troubleshooting Unblocking Issues
If you're still experiencing issues receiving emails from the unblocked sender, consider these troubleshooting steps:
- Check your Junk Email Rules: Ensure you haven't created any custom rules that might still filter emails from this sender to your junk folder.
- Restart Outlook: Sometimes a simple restart can resolve minor glitches.
- Check for Spam Filters: Your internet service provider (ISP) might also have spam filters. Contact your ISP's support if you suspect their filters are blocking emails.
- Verify the Sender's Email Address: Double-check that you've entered the correct email address when unblocking. A slight typo could cause continued blocking.
By following these steps, you should be able to successfully unblock someone on your Outlook email. Remember to always be cautious about unblocking unknown or suspicious senders to avoid potential spam or phishing attempts. If you are unsure about the sender, it's best to err on the side of caution and keep them blocked.
