How to Easily Set Up Gmail in Outlook 2016 and Outlook.com

In this article, we’ll guide you through setting up your Gmail account in both Outlook 2016 and Outlook.com. Since the desktop app and online version are different, the steps vary slightly. Follow along to learn how to sync your Gmail account and enjoy the benefits of using Outlook to manage all your emails.

Introduction

Gmail is one of the most widely used email services globally, offering reliable and secure features. It’s known for regular updates that keep things running smoothly. Despite Gmail’s power as a standalone platform, many users prefer to link it with Outlook for a more streamlined experience. Whether you use the desktop version of Outlook (Outlook 2016) or the online version (Outlook.com), integrating Gmail can make managing your emails easier.

Why Link Gmail to Outlook?

Before we dive into the setup, let’s take a quick look at why you’d want to connect Gmail to Outlook:

• All Emails in One Place: By adding your Gmail account to Outlook, you can manage all your emails in one place—no need to switch between apps.
• Advanced Spam Filtering: Gmail’s excellent spam detection pairs nicely with Outlook’s additional filtering options, offering you more protection.
• Effortless Contact Management: Once synced, you’ll have access to all your Gmail contacts in Outlook, making communication smoother.
• Email Signatures: Gmail’s built-in email signature options are basic, but Outlook offers more customization, letting you create a professional-looking signature for your emails.

With these benefits in mind, let’s move on to the actual process of setting up your Gmail account in Outlook.

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Method 1: Setting Up Gmail in Outlook 2016

Outlook 2016 is a desktop application that requires a bit more manual setup compared to the online version. Here’s how to get started.

Step 1: Enable IMAP in Gmail

Before you can add Gmail to Outlook 2016, you need to turn on IMAP in your Gmail settings.

1. Log in to Gmail and click the gear icon at the top right.
2. Select See all settings from the dropdown menu.
3. Go to the Forwarding and POP/IMAP tab.
4. Under IMAP Access, select Enable IMAP.
5. Don’t forget to hit Save Changes.

Step 2: Add Gmail to Outlook 2016

Now that IMAP is enabled, follow these steps to sync Gmail with Outlook:

1. Open Outlook 2016 on your desktop.
2. Click the File tab, then select Add Account.
3. Choose the option for Manual setup or additional server types, then click Next.
4. Select IMAP (which is recommended over POP).
5. In the account setup, input the following details:
   • Account Type: IMAP
   • Incoming Mail Server: imap.gmail.com
   • Outgoing Mail Server (SMTP): smtp.gmail.com
6. Click More Settings, go to the Outgoing Server tab, and check the box for My outgoing server (SMTP) requires authentication.
7. Under the Advanced tab, verify these settings:
   • Incoming Server (IMAP): 993
   • Outgoing Server (SMTP): 465 (or 587)
   • Use SSL encryption for both incoming and outgoing servers.
8. Click OK, then Next, and Outlook will test the connection. Once everything checks out, click Finish.

You’ve now successfully added your Gmail account to Outlook 2016, and you can manage all your emails in one place. Here you can also read about, methods to migrate Gmail into Outlook 2019.

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Method 2: Adding Gmail to Outlook.com

The process for Outlook.com is much simpler because it’s a web-based service and doesn’t require manual server configuration. Here’s how to set it up:

1. Log in to Outlook.com and open your inbox.
2. Click the gear icon (Settings) and select View all Outlook settings.
3. Under the Mail tab, click Sync email.
4. Look for the Gmail option and follow the instructions to link your account.
5. You’ll be prompted to log in to your Gmail account and grant permission for Outlook to access it.
6. Once linked, you’ll be able to manage your Gmail from within Outlook.com just like any other email account.

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Bonus: Using a Professional Gmail Backup Tool

If you want an extra layer of security for your emails, consider using Softmagnat Gmail Backup Tool. This software allows you to create a backup of your Gmail data, so you never have to worry about losing important emails. It can also help you migrate your data to Outlook or other email services easily. Plus, it’s user-friendly, even for people who aren’t tech-savvy.

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Conclusion

Although setting up Gmail in Outlook 2016 and Outlook.com involves slightly different processes, both are easy to follow. Once you’ve successfully connected your Gmail account, you’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits of Outlook, from enhanced email management to spam protection.

And remember, if you ever want to safeguard your Gmail data or switch to another email client, the Gmail Backup Tool can simplify the process.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll have Gmail running smoothly in your Outlook platform of choice in no time.

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FAQs:

Q1. Can I add more than one Gmail account to Outlook?
Yes, you can repeat the steps for each Gmail account you want to add, whether you’re using Outlook 2016 or Outlook.com.

Q2. Why do I need to enable IMAP in Gmail?
IMAP allows Outlook to sync your Gmail inbox and manage messages in real time. Without enabling it, Outlook won’t be able to access your Gmail account.

Q3. Will this process work for older versions of Outlook?
Yes, the process is similar for older versions of Outlook, although the interface may look slightly different.

Q4. How do I update my Gmail password in Outlook if I change it?
If you update your Gmail password, you’ll need to go into your Outlook settings and update it there as well.

Q5. Can the Gmail Backup Tool transfer emails to other platforms besides Outlook?
Yes, the tool can back up your Gmail data and transfer it to various email clients, not just Outlook.