Email
15 minutes
3 steps
Emails that remain stuck in the Outbox or fail to send can interrupt important communication. Common causes include connection problems, large attachments, authentication failures, account configuration issues, or temporary service outages. This article explains how to narrow down the cause and troubleshoot sending problems step by step.
Common causes and symptoms
A poor or interrupted internet connection can prevent an email app from reaching the provider's servers. Other common causes include authentication errors, oversized attachments, outdated account settings, account restrictions, or temporary service problems. Messages may remain in the Outbox or display a sending error.
Attachment limits and other restrictions
Attachment size limits vary by email provider and account type and can change over time. If a message with a large attachment fails, check your provider's current limit and consider sharing the file through a cloud storage link instead.
Steps to troubleshoot the problem
Check the internet connection, send a simple message without attachments, verify the recipient address, and confirm that your account password and security settings are current. If the problem persists, review the provider's service status and recommended account settings or remove and re-add the account.
Steps to Fix Email Sending Problems
Follow these steps to identify and troubleshoot email sending errors
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1
Check your internet connection
Open a website or another online service to confirm that your connection is working. If necessary, reconnect to Wi-Fi or mobile data and restart your network equipment.
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2
Test with a simple message
Send a short message without attachments. If it sends successfully, the original message may contain an attachment that is too large or another problematic element.
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3
Reconfigure the account
Verify your password and account security settings. If necessary, remove and add the account again using the email provider's recommended configuration, then test with a simple message.
Common Email Sending Problems
| Problem | Possible Cause | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Message stays in Outbox | Connection, authentication, or synchronization problem | Test the connection and send a simple message |
| Message with attachment will not send | Attachment may exceed the provider's limit | Reduce the attachment size or share a cloud link |
| Login or authentication error | Password, two-step verification, or account security settings | Update credentials and complete required security verification |
Important Tips
For large files, use a cloud storage link instead of attaching the file directly when appropriate.
Keep your email app and operating system updated to fix bugs and maintain compatibility.
Use a stable connection for important messages and make sure your account credentials and security settings are current.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to common questions.
Why won't my email send messages?
An unstable internet connection, an oversized attachment, authentication problems, account restrictions, incorrect outgoing-server settings, or a temporary provider issue can prevent email from being sent.
How do I fix email authentication errors?
Confirm that your password is current, complete any required two-step verification or security prompts, and update the account credentials in the email app. If necessary, remove and add the account again using the provider's current settings.
What should I do when an email is stuck in the Outbox?
Check your internet connection, try sending a simple message without attachments, and restart the email app. If the message remains stuck, review account synchronization and outgoing-server settings or re-add the account.
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