How to Troubleshoot Outlook Not Opening Issue?

On: May 2, 2022

MS Outlook is one of the most prevalent email client service providers. It allows users to effectively organize their contacts, calendars, emails, and tasks. But sometimes, while accessing Outlook, users encounter an issue stating that “MS Outlook Not Opening.” This needs to fix immediately. This blog will discuss the significant causes and complete solutions to fix the issue.

Why is Outlook Not Opening?

There can be various reasons that lead you to Outlook is not opening issue. Some of them are mentioned:

Using an outdated version of Outlook.
Many Outlook running in the background.
Due to Outlook PST files being accidentally deleted or damaged.
Improper configuration of the application.
Inappropriate installation of the application.
Virus malware infection.
Internal registry conflict.

How to Fix Outlook Not Opening Issue?

Technique 1: Update Outlook and Windows

One of the significant reasons behind this issue is using an outdated Outlook program and Windows OS. To resolve the issue, you have to update Outlook or install the latest Windows OS updates.

To Update Outlook:

First, go to File and then click on Office Account.
Then, click on the Updates option and then choose Update Now.

To Update Windows OS:

To install the new releases for updating Windows manually, these are the steps:

Firstly, navigate to Settings.
Secondly, choose the Update and Recovery option. Click on “How updates get installed.”
Finally, Turn ON the Automatic updates.

Now, try to access the Outlook application. Check for the Outlook not opening” error is resolved. If not, then move to the following method.

Note: Outlook will not open when there’s a compatibility problem between Outlook and the antivirus program. According to Microsoft, upgrading the system’s antivirus program can help resolve the error.

Technique 2: Open Outlook in Safe Mode and Disable Add-ins

Opening the Outlook in safe mode begins with only a necessary setup without add-ins. It will help you determine damaged or faulty add-ins responsible for the error.

Steps to launch Outlook in safe mode:

Go to Start>>Run or Press Windows + R keys together to access the Run Dialog box.
Now, type “Outlook.exe/safe” in the box. Click OK.

Note: Always keep space between “Outlook.exe” and “safe” while typing.

If Outlook starts in safe mode, a faulty or damaged add-in is responsible for the issue. If Outlook doesn’t open in safe mode, proceed to the following method.

Disable Add-ins

Below are the steps to disable the faulty add-ins:

Firstly, open the Outlook menu and go to File and then Options.
Secondly, tap on Add-ins from the left side panel in the Outlook Options wizard. Choose COM Add-ins in the Manage field. Click GO.
After that, unselect all the add-ins checkboxes, and click on OK.
Restart Outlook in normal mode.

If this method works, enable the add-ins one by one. Also, keep rebooting the Outlook after enabling each add-in. It will help you examine the faulty add-in(s) that causes the issue.

Final Verdict

It isn’t very pleasant when you try to operate Outlook, but it doesn’t open. We present you with the best solution to fix Outlook not opening issues with this blog to solve these scenarios. Updating the Outlook can resolve your issue permanently. There is no harm to the data during the whole process. We hope this write-up helps you.