Signing out of Outlook on Windows and Mac, including Microsoft 365 apps, helps protect your privacy and keeps your account secure when you share a device or finish a work session.
Use this guide for both the desktop app and web access to understand where to find the sign out option and how it affects cached data.
| Platform | Location | Action Required | Sign Out Effect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outlook Desktop (Windows) | File tab → Account Information → Sign Out | Tap or click Sign Out | Clears cached credentials, keeps local mail files |
| Outlook Desktop (Mac) | Outlook menu → Sign Out | Confirm Sign Out | Removes active session, requires re-enter on next launch |
| Outlook on the Web (browser) | Profile picture or Settings → Sign Out | Select Sign Out | Ends web session, does not affect desktop app |
| Microsoft 365 Portal | Account Profile → Sign Out | Choose Sign Out | Signs out from all Microsoft services in that browser |
How to Sign Out of Outlook Desktop on Windows
If you use the Outlook desktop app on a Windows machine, you can sign out from within the app without uninstalling it.
This is useful when you step away from your PC or want to switch to a different Microsoft account.
Step by Step Steps
Follow these steps to sign out cleanly and remove cached credentials.
How to Sign Out of Outlook Desktop on Mac
Mac users access the sign out option through the Outlook menu rather than a File tab.
Signing out here clears the active session while keeping local copies of mail if configured to do so.
Mac Specific Details
Ensure you close active compose windows before you proceed to avoid losing unsaved drafts.
Signing Out from Outlook on the Web
When you access Outlook on the web, sign out from the top navigation to end your browser session securely.
This action only signs you out of the web view and does not sign out desktop apps unless they use the same browser token.
Web Interface Tips
Check your browser settings if you want to clear cached cookies related to Outlook web sessions.
Managing Security and Cached Data
Signing out removes current session tokens, but emails may remain accessible offline depending on app settings.
Review sync and cached data settings if you need to fully clear local copies before signing in with a new account.
Data and Sync Considerations
On shared or public devices, sign out and clear recent items for a more complete sign out experience.
Recommended Practices for Signing Out
- Sign out on shared or public devices to protect your privacy.
- Close unsaved drafts before you proceed to avoid losing composition work.
- Clear browser cookies for Outlook web if you sign out on shared computers.
- Verify sync settings if you want to manage what remains on the device after sign out.
FAQ
Reader questions
Will signing me out of Outlook delete my emails locally on Windows?
No, signing out typically keeps local mail files intact, but offline access may be disabled until you sign back in.
How do I sign out of Outlook on Mac without leaving drafts open?
Save or close any compose windows, then use the Outlook menu to sign out to prevent data loss.
Does signing out of Outlook on the web sign me out of Microsoft 365 everywhere?
Signing out of Outlook on the web signs you out of that site, but other Microsoft services may keep active sessions unless you sign out globally.
Can I sign out of one account and add another in the Outlook desktop app?
Yes, you can add multiple accounts and switch users, or sign out and add a different account through account settings.