Fix Outlook Not Working: 7 Quick Troubleshooting Tips

Is your Outlook app not opening suddenly on your computer? This is a common bug with the new Outlook app, but there are plenty of ways to troubleshoot it. You may need to clear the cache, repair the app, or even reset it. Here's how to fix Outlook not working on your Windows computer.

Why Is My Outlook Not Opening?

If Outlook isn't opening, it can be due to minor software bugs, incorrect installation, or your settings. To fix Outlook, force-close the Outlook app, restart your computer, and run Outlook as an administrator. You can also completely uninstall the Outlook app and download it again.

1

Restart your computer.

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This is the first fix you should try before attempting to troubleshoot your device. A quick restart can often fix minor software bugs and ensures any additional fixes you try begin with a fresh start. Be sure to close any other applications or files to avoid losing data.

2

Restart the Outlook app.

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To fully close the Outlook app, right-click the Start menu and select the Task Manager. Select Microsoft Outlook, and then click End task. This ensures the program is fully closed and not running in the background.
- Try opening Outlook again.
- If it doesn't work, force-close the app again. Right-click the Outlook icon and select Run as administrator.

3

Repair and reset the Outlook app.

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Use the app settings to reset the Outlook app. Repairing won't affect your data, but resetting will delete your app data. This just means you'll be asked to log into your accounts again and reapply any settings or preferences you may have changed. Use the following steps to reset the Outlook app:
- Open Settings and select Apps.
- Select Installed apps.
- Find Outlook and click the three-dots icon next to it.
- Select Advanced options.
- Scroll down and click Repair.
- When Repair is complete, click Reset.

4

Delete the Outlook app cache.

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Some users reported that deleting two specific folders in your computer's files can make Outlook work again. This method involves using the Run command to find and access your local app data folders. Use the following steps:
- Press the Windows key + R to open the Run menu.
- Type *%localappdata%\Microsoft* and click OK.
- Open the Edge folder.
- Select the Olk folder and click the trash can icon.
- Select the OneAuth folder and click the trash can icon.
- Try to open Outlook again.

5

Repair the Office installer.

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If Outlook isn't opening properly, the problem may be with the installer itself. You likely downloaded Outlook through the installer, which may download other Microsoft Office applications with it. To repair the Office installer, do the following:
- Open the Start menu and type "control panel". Click Control Panel.
- Click Programs.
- Click Programs and Features.
- Click Microsoft 365 or your Office version's installer.
- Click Change in the top toolbar.
- Select Online Repair.
- Click Repair.
- When finished, restart your computer. Then, open Outlook.

6

Check your storage space.

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If your Outlook isn't opening, make sure you have plenty of storage space left. If your storage is almost full, it may impact the app. You can use Outlook's built-in cleanup tool to get rid of any junk mail, archive old emails, and more. If you can't access Outlook long enough to do so, access the Outlook website and organize your inbox manually.
- On the Outlook app, select File > Tools > Mailbox Cleanup. Right-click a folder and select Empty Folder to empty it.
- On the Outlook website, click the settings icon and select View all Outlook settings. Then, select General > Storage. From there, you can empty your deleted items, junk folder, delete bulky messages, and more.

7

Reinstall the Outlook app.

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If your Outlook app still won't open, you can try starting with a fresh installation. You'll need to completely uninstall it from your device and install it again using the Office installer.^{[1]
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- To uninstall the Outlook app, do the following:
  - Open Settings.
  - Click Installed apps.
  - Click the three-dots next to Outlook.
  - Click Uninstall.
  - Restart your computer before attempting to download Outlook again.