How to Fix “MS Outlook for Mac 2011 Error Code 17997” Quickly?

Emailing is considered one of the most reliable and professional methods of communication in today’s digital age. For users searching how to fix MS Outlook for Mac 2011 error code 17997, it’s important to first understand the role of Outlook in modern tech environments. Microsoft offers Outlook as a powerful email client that is fully compatible with various versions of Windows OS and Mac OS X. One of its key features is the ability to operate even without an internet connection. However, on macOS, offline access to emails through Outlook requires a connection to the Exchange Server.

Although Outlook is regarded as one of the top email clients, it is not immune to technical errors. One such issue arises when users try to connect Outlook 2011 for Mac with the Exchange Server and receive the error message: “Unexpected data was encountered – Mac Outlook 2011 error code 17997.” When users check the error report, they often see a notification stating “Mail could not be sent.” This issue may also appear as Mac Outlook Error Code 17997.

This issue can be extremely frustrating. While it doesn’t affect incoming mails, it completely blocks the ability to send messages, which can disrupt workflow. Keeping users’ needs in mind, we have prepared this article to help you resolve this problem effectively. Below, you’ll find the complete solution to fix MS Outlook for Mac 2011 error code 17997. Let’s get started.

Symptoms of Mac Outlook Error Code 17997

The error message “Unexpected Data was Encountered – 17997” typically appears when Outlook 2011 attempts to connect to the Exchange Server. At this point, the connection fails, preventing Outlook from successfully syncing with the server. As a result, users are unable to send any emails once this error occurs. In some cases, the error may even cause the current Outlook window or the entire screen to freeze for a few moments, adding to the frustration.

How to Fix MS Outlook for Mac 2011 Error Code 17997: Manual Methods

In this segment, we’ll walk you through a couple of effective manual techniques to help solve Mac Outlook 2011 Error Code 17997. Follow the steps carefully for the best results.

Approach 1: Modify Server and Port Settings in Outlook

Follow the steps below in order to fix the issue:

• Open a web browser and access OWA (Outlook Web App) by replacing the server name with the server URL.
• Go to Outlook 2011 Settings.
• Enable the default port setting.
• Then, manually change the port number to 442.

Approach 2: Upgrade and Reset Exchange Server Virtual Directory

Another way to fix this error is by upgrading the Server Virtual Directory on your Microsoft Exchange Server. Here’s how you can do it:

• Rebuild the Exchange Management Console into Service Pack 3 (SP3).
• After the virtual directories have been successfully upgraded, proceed to reset the virtual directories on the Exchange Server.
• This action will remove the previously selected virtual directory and automatically generate a new one with default settings.
• Once the reset is complete, grant the required permissions to the new virtual directory.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reconfiguration.

Note: After resetting, it’s important to manually reconfigure the virtual directory, as the newly created one will have default settings.

Steps to Reset the Client Access Server Virtual Directory in Exchange

Follow the step-by-step guide below to reset the Client Access Server (CAS) virtual directory, which is often essential for resolving Outlook Mac 2011 Error Code 17997:

• Launch the Exchange Management Console.
• Navigate to Server Configuration > Client Access.
• Right-click on the Client Access Server name.
• In the context menu, select Reset Client Access Virtual Directory and click Browse.
• Choose the specific virtual directory you wish to reset, then click Next.
• A list of default virtual directories will be displayed, including: Autodiscover (Default Web Site), EWS (Default Web Site), ECP (Default Web Site), Microsoft-Server-ActiveSync (Default Web Site), OWA (Default Web Site), and OAB (Default Web Site)
• Once selected, the virtual directory will begin resetting. After completion, click Next.
• Click Browse, then Next to proceed.
• You’ll now be in the Reset Client Access Virtual Directory screen.
• Click on Reset, then Finish to complete the process.
• Finally, reset the Internet Information Services (IIS) by executing the following command in the command prompt: iisreset /noforce

Professional Alternative: Use OLM File Converter for a Hassle-Free Solution

If you’ve tried the manual methods and are still facing the Outlook 2011 Mac Error Code 17997, or if you prefer a more straightforward and reliable solution, then using a professional tool is your best option.

BitData Migration OLM Converter is a powerful utility designed to resolve Outlook for Mac-related issues efficiently. This tool not only helps in recovering and converting corrupted or inaccessible OLM files but also ensures that no data is lost in the process.

How to Use the Application:

1. Download and Install the Mac Outlook Converter from the official website.
2. Launch the tool and click on “Select Files/Folder” to load your OLM file.
3. Preview the mailbox contents including emails, contacts, calendars, etc.
4. Choose the desired output format (e.g., PST, EML, O365, Gmail, WLM, etc.).
5. Select the destination folder and click on “Convert.”

In just a few steps, your data will be safely extracted and converted, bypassing the error and making your emails accessible again.

Highlighted Features of OLM Migrator

• Convert OLM files to multiple formats like PDF, PST, MSG, MBOX, DOC, HTML, RTF, ICS, CSV, vCard, IMAP, Thunderbird, Office 365, Yahoo, AWS WorkMail, Windows Live Mail, Hosted Exchange Server, and many more options.
• Maintain complete folder hierarchy and metadata integrity
• Supports batch conversion of large Mac OLM files
• Compatible with all Outlook Mac editions, including Microsoft Outlook 2021
• Simple, user-friendly interface, no technical expertise required

Conclusion

Microsoft Outlook for Mac 2011 error code 17997can be a frustrating issue, especially when it blocks outgoing emails and interrupts communication. Fortunately, this error is fixable. You can follow the manual methods outlined above, such as modifying server settings or resetting the Exchange Server virtual directories, to troubleshoot the issue effectively.

However, if the manual steps feel too technical or time-consuming, opting for a reliable third-party solution like the OLM to PST Converter can save you both time and effort. This professional tool ensures a smooth and secure way to access your Outlook data without the risk of further errors or data loss.

Whether you prefer manual troubleshooting or a professional utility, the goal is to get your Outlook Mac back to full functionality as quickly and efficiently as possible.