Microsoft restores service after global outage affecting 74 countries

Microsoft is restoring service after a server error limited access for tens of thousands of users worldwide, with disruptions reported in 74 countries and full capacity not yet returned. The outage began at about 12 p.m. ET on Nov. 12 when some Microsoft servers stopped responding after a cloud system change. Downdetector recorded a peak of 130,000 Outlook complaints, while Microsoft 365 saw 50,000 reports. Users faced sign-in errors, missing emails, and disrupted business and school operations. Microsoft has not specified when full service will return but stated nothing "malicious" caused the outage. Over 430 million people use Microsoft 365 apps, and more than 90% of Fortune 500 companies rely on Microsoft 365 Copilot.