Forum Discussion

Copper Contributor

Jul 14, 2022

Inbox Rules conflict between web and desktop versions of Outlook

When I open my desktop version I keep getting messages for EVERY Rule I've created, saying: "There was an error reading the rules from the server. The format of the server rules was not recognized." ...

Outlook on the web Exchange

MVP

I am an independent advisor investigating your inquiry.

I was unable to recreate your issue to investigate thoroughly. However, I found two articles that may help you.

Article #1: There was an error reading the rules from the server. The format of - Microsoft Community
Article #2 Microsoft outlook - There was an error reading the rules from the server - Super User

If you find these articles helpful, please like this post which will help others with the same issue.

/Teresa

Copper Contributor

Jul 17, 2022

Thank you Teresa. Unfortunately I found no way to export my rules to a local file. Thus ended up deleting all 60+ individually. Remaining question is: when I re-create them will I be prompted to select between server or client only. Selecting the latter option was suggested in that same solution.
But thanks all the same

Teresa_Cyrus
MVP
Jul 17, 2022
sybil41

Sorry to hear that you had to delete all rules.
Create all of your rules in Outlook Online. Do a couple of them first, then repeat. Run the rules after several entries so you can determine the "one - it's always one bad apple" that may be corrupted. Make sure none of the rules are on the Outlook Windows version. You will see the following message in Outlook Online Rules.

Let me know how it goes.
- Christinahoff924
  Copper Contributor
  Jun 03, 2024
  Teresa_Cyrus The creation of rules online is not nearly as robust as the desktop version. Corporate users need full functionality, but it is being curtailed by MS.
  
  Is MS aware that their software is considered productivity software and that removing functionality chips away at productivity?
  - Teresa_Cyrus
    MVP
    Jun 04, 2024
    Christinahoff924
    
    Yes, Microsoft is aware. They are rolling out features and enhancements regularly.
- sybil41
  Copper Contributor
  Jul 17, 2022
  I had done just that a couple weeks ago. Although I hadn’t liked to do so, because there are far fewer options in the web version. At first that had seemed to work. Then it started the same nonsense all over again. I think Microsoft needs to do something about making these rules compatible.

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