How often online outlook checks for mail
Outlook, both the desktop and web versions, uses a technology called "push" or "pull" to check for new emails. The frequency of checking for new emails depends on several factors, including:
- Settings: You can adjust the frequency of email checking in your Outlook settings. For example, in Outlook Web App (OWA), you can go to Settings > View all Outlook settings > Mail > Sync email > Sync frequency and choose from options like "Every 15 minutes", "Every 30 minutes", or "Every 1 hour".
- Account settings: The frequency of email checking also depends on your email account settings. For example, if you're using an Exchange account, your organization's IT department may have set a specific sync frequency.
- Device and network: The frequency of email checking can also be affected by the device and network you're using. For example, if you're using a mobile device with a slow internet connection, Outlook may check for new emails less frequently to conserve data.
- Outlook version: The frequency of email checking may vary depending on the version of Outlook you're using. For example, Outlook 2016 and later versions use a more efficient sync mechanism that checks for new emails less frequently.
Here are some general guidelines on how often Outlook checks for new emails:
- Outlook Web App (OWA): OWA checks for new emails every 15-30 minutes, depending on your sync frequency settings.
- Outlook desktop app: The Outlook desktop app checks for new emails every 15-30 minutes, depending on your sync frequency settings. However, if you're using an Exchange account, the app may check for new emails more frequently, such as every 5-10 minutes.
- Outlook mobile app: The Outlook mobile app checks for new emails every 15-30 minutes, depending on your sync frequency settings. However, if you're using a mobile device with a slow internet connection, the app may check for new emails less frequently.
Keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and the actual frequency of email checking may vary depending on your specific situation.