How to Resolve “Error Code 17897 Outlook Mac 2011”? – With Simple Ways

Sarabjeet Kaur | mac outlook olm outlook for mac outlook mac software technology | 5 minutes read | Modified on: 07-10-2025
error code 17897 outlook mac 2011

Issues with technology can disrupt the smooth operation of any organization, and one such problem is error code 17897 Outlook Mac 2011. This error can be particularly troublesome as it impacts email communication, which is vital for most businesses. Users often encounter this issue when they are unable to send messages via the desktop client. As it is a widespread issue, many seek solutions online. This article provides detailed solutions to help resolve the problem and restore seamless communication. Keep reading to discover the top three methods to fix this error.

Understanding Error Code 17897 Outlook Mac 2011

Error 17897 in Outlook for Mac is often caused by improper account authentication, leading to issues in configuring the mailbox correctly. Factors such as a misspelled email address, incorrect password, or wrong SMTP port number can trigger this error. As a result, users may find themselves unable to send or receive emails. Fortunately, the problem can be resolved by following a few simple steps to manually fix the configuration issues.

3 Effective Solutions to Fix Error Code 17897 in Outlook 2011 for Mac

Here are three methods you can use to resolve error code 17897 Outlook Mac 2011 and restore your email communication:

Way 1: Verify Account Information

The first step in resolving Error Code 17897 Outlook 2011 for Mac is to double-check your configuration settings. Ensure that the email address and password are entered correctly. If any recent password changes were made, verify them with the account owner and update the credentials in the client. You can also try logging into the account via a web browser to confirm the accuracy of the credentials. After that, attempt to send a test email to see if the problem is resolved.

Way 2: Adjust Authentication Settings

Follow these steps to address Error Code 17897 in Outlook for Mac by adjusting the authentication mode:

  • Open Outlook and go to Tools > Accounts. Select the account with the issue.
  • Click on the More Options button under Outgoing Server.
  • If the Authentication drop-down is set to None, change it to Use Incoming Server Info.
  • Click OK to save changes.
  • If it is already set to Use Incoming Server Info, switch it to None and click OK.
  • If you’re using different servers for incoming and outgoing emails, select Username and Password and enter the necessary credentials for the outgoing mail server.
  • Click OK to confirm changes.

Way #3: Verify SMTP Settings

To resolve Error Code 17897 Outlook 2011 for Mac, ensure your SMTP settings are correct:

  • Launch Outlook and navigate to Tools > Accounts.
  • In the Accounts window, select the affected mailbox.
  • Visit your email service provider’s website to obtain the correct incoming and outgoing server port numbers.
  • Enter the appropriate port numbers in the Outgoing server section in Outlook.
  • Ensure the boxes for Override default port and Use SSL to connect (recommended) are checked.
  • Close the Accounts window and try sending an email again to see if the issue is resolved.

Additional Tips to Prevent Outlook 2011 Errors on Mac

1- Update Outlook and macOS: Ensure that both your Outlook 2011 for Mac and your macOS are up-to-date. Sometimes, outdated software can lead to compatibility issues and errors. Go to the Mac App Store or Outlook’s official site to check for updates.

2- Clear the Outlook Cache: If Outlook 2011 for Mac continues to show errors, clearing its cache might help. You can do this by navigating to Tools > Public Folders > Clear Cache. This can resolve issues related to corrupted data or outdated files.

3- Rebuild Outlook Database: If the issue persists, try rebuilding the Outlook database. This can help resolve any corrupt files or folders causing problems. To do this:

  • Hold down the Option key while opening Outlook.
  • Select Rebuild and follow the on-screen instructions.

4- Create a New Outlook Profile: If the issue is specific to one profile, consider creating a new Outlook profile:

  • Open Outlook and go to Tools > Accounts.
  • Add a new account and configure it properly to see if the error persists.

5- Check for Network Issues: Sometimes, email errors like Error Code 17897 can be caused by poor or unstable internet connections. Ensure you are connected to a stable network, or try switching to a different one to check if the issue is network-related.

Additional Tip: Migrate Outlook 2011 (Mac) Data Using OLM File Converter

If you’re facing persistent issues with Outlook 2011 for Mac and are looking for a way to back up or migrate your emails, contacts, calendars, and other mailbox items to a more recent version of Outlook or a different email client, BitData Migration OLM Converter for Mac and Windows is a reliable solution.

Key Features of OLM Migrator Tool

  • Tailor the conversion process according to your specific preferences.
  • Choose to upload your data either as individual files or entire folders for conversion.
  • Ensures the complete safety and security of your data throughout the conversion process.
  • Experience a fast, user-friendly process for smooth and efficient file conversion.
  • Maintains the original structure and hierarchy of your data, ensuring no information is lost.
  • Allows selective conversion of specific mail folders, giving you flexibility over what to migrate.
  • Ensures that all metadata, including email formatting, attachments, and folder hierarchy, remains intact.

How to Use the Software

  1. First, download and install the OLM to PST Converter from the official website.
  2. Launch the tool and click on the “Select Files/Folder” button to select the OLM files you want to convert.
  3. After adding the OLM files, the software allows you to preview all your emails, contacts, and other data.
  4. Choose the Desired File Format (PST, PDF, EML, MBOX, CSV, Office 365, Gmail, IMAP, Thunderbird, etc.) as the output format for conversion.
  5. Click on the “Convert” button to start the process.
Final Verdict

One common drawback of using the Microsoft desktop email client is the frequent bugs and issues that arise, often disrupting communication. However, these problems are usually easy to fix with a few simple steps. This post outlines three effective ways to resolve error code 17897 Outlook Mac 2011, which can help users facing similar challenges. The solutions primarily involve checking and correcting your account settings, which is something that can be done without much technical expertise. Just follow the instructions carefully to avoid altering any critical settings. Additionally, for users looking to migrate their Mac Outlook data or handle persistent issues, Mac OLM Outlook Converter is a useful tool. It provides an easy solution for converting OLM files to PST and more amazing output formats with the added benefit of a demo version to test the tool before committing.