Outlook Error 0x80042108: Identifying Causes and Finding Solutions

Outlook error code 0x80042108 indicates a problem related to the connection between Outlook and the mail server. Let's take a look at the causes of the error and options for fixing it.

When this error occurs, users see the following message on their screens: "Task 'server name - Receiving' reported error (0x80042108): 'Outlook is unable to connect to your incoming (POP3) e-mail server. If you continue to receive this message, contact your server administrator or Internet service provider (ISP).'"

When does Outlook error 0x80042108 occur?

This error typically occurs during regular email operations, such as sending or receiving emails, or when using antivirus or any security software. You may also see that error message when starting or closing Outlook.

There are many reasons that can lead to such a problem. Let's look at them to understand how to fix the Outlook error 0x80042108.

The reasons behind Outlook error 0x80042108

1. Incorrect email account settings. If the email account settings, such as the incoming and outgoing server details, are incorrect or not configured properly, Outlook error 0x80042108 may occur.
2. SSL/TLS settings mismatch. Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) and Transport Layer Security (TLS) are cryptographic protocols used to secure the connection between Outlook and the mail server. If there is a mismatch between the SSL/TLS settings in Outlook and the mail server requirements, it can result in Outlook error 0x80042108.
3. Issues with the mail server. In some cases, the error may be caused by a problem with the mail server itself, such as temporary unavailability or server-side issues.
4. Antivirus or firewall interference. Sometimes, antivirus internet security software may block the connection between Outlook and the mail server. This can result in Outlook error code 0x80042108.
5. Network connectivity issues. A weak or unstable internet connection can cause the 0x80042108 error in Outlook. Troubleshoot your network settings if needed or contact your internet service provider if the issue persists.
6. Incorrect system date and time. An incorrect system date and time can cause issues with secure connections and certificate validation, leading to Outlook error 0x80042108.
7. Conflicting third-party add-ins. Some third-party add-ins installed in Outlook may interfere with the normal functioning of the application and cause the 0x80042108 error.

How to get rid of 0x80042108 send/receive error in Outlook

Here are the ways to resolve the Outlook error 0x80042108. After following these methods, the Outlook error 0x80042108 should be fixed. If the issue persists, contact your email service provider or Microsoft support for further assistance.

Way 1: Verify email account settings and adjust SSL/TLS settings.

1. Open Outlook and navigate to File > Account Settings > Account Settings.
2. Select your email account and click on Change.


3. Ensure that the incoming and outgoing server details are correct, as provided by your email service provider.
4. Double-check the username, password, and port numbers.
5. Click More Settings and go to the Advanced tab.
6. Adjust the SSL/TLS settings based on your email service provider's requirements.
7. Click OK and then Next to test the settings. If successful, click Finish.

Changing the POP3 settings may cause Outlook to resynchronize. As a result, duplicates may appear in your mailbox. We recommend using simple deduplication tools to resolve this problem. These utilities allow you to quickly find and safely remove duplicates of Outlook email messages, contacts, calendar events, tasks, notes and journal entries from selected Outlook folders.

Way 2: Check antivirus and firewall settings.

1. Open your antivirus software and check if it has an email scanning feature. If so, disable it temporarily.
2. Open your firewall settings and ensure that Outlook is allowed to access the internet.
3. Restart Outlook and check if the error is resolved.

Way 3: Check network connectivity.

1. Make sure that you have a stable and reliable internet connection.
2. Try accessing your email through a web browser to confirm that the issue is not with your internet connection.
3. If the problem persists, contact your internet service provider for assistance.

Way 4: Ensure that their system date and time settings are accurate, and correct them if necessary.

1. Right-click on the date and time in the system tray and select Adjust date/time.
2. Ensure that the correct time zone is selected and that the date and time are accurate.
3. Restart Outlook and check if the error is resolved.

Way 5: Disable conflicting add-ins.

1. Open Outlook in safe mode by pressing "Windows Key + R," typing "outlook.exe /safe," and pressing OK or Enter.


2. If the error does not occur in safe mode, go to File > Options > Add-Ins.
3. Check the list of add-ins and disable any potentially conflicting ones.
4. Restart Outlook and check if the error is resolved.

Way 6. Turn on access for less secure apps.

Some email servers might block third-party applications or devices that log in to your email account with only your username and password. You can allow less secure app access by turning on this setting in your email client. Then check to see if the 0x80042108 error is fixed. If it does not, turn Allow less secure apps off again.

Conclusion

Outlook error 0x80042108 is a POP3 email server issue. It can occur due to various reasons, such as incorrect account settings or security software issues. Using the methods mentioned in this text, you can quickly and easily fix this Outlook send/receive error. The duplicate removal utilities help you eliminate the risk of duplicates when changing POP3 settings.

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About Author

David Godfrin is a software developer and blogger for Outlook and Exchange. He has a strong background in IT and works in the field of software development and tech support since 2011.