Issue resolved: “Microsoft Outlook stopped working”

Overview:

As a frequent Outlook user, you may have experienced instances where Microsoft Outlook suddenly stops functioning, displaying the dreaded “Outlook stopped working” error. This can occur due to multiple reasons, which we’ll explore in this post. We’ll also go over some effective troubleshooting methods to resolve the “Outlook Not Responding” or “Outlook Not Working” error by tweaking Outlook settings and utilizing repair tools to restore functionality.

Why does the ‘Microsoft Outlook stopped working’ error happen?

Outlook versions like 2016, 2013, 2010, and newer releases can stop responding or crash due to several causes, including:

• Faulty or conflicting add-ins
• Missing or corrupted DLL files
• Incorrect Outlook configurations
• Corrupted Outlook data files (OST/PST)
• A damaged Outlook profile
• Faulty Outlook installation
• An outdated Windows system

Methods to fix the ‘Microsoft Outlook stopped working’ error

To resolve this issue, follow the steps below in the given order to troubleshoot and get Outlook back to functioning normally.

Step 1: Utilize event viewer for diagnostics

The Windows Event Viewer is a powerful tool that logs events and system messages, making it easier to diagnose errors. When you encounter the “Microsoft Outlook has stopped working” error, checking Event Viewer should be your first troubleshooting step.

How to check event viewer:

1. Open the Start Menu, type “event” in the search field.
2. Select “Event Viewer” from the list.
3. In the Event Viewer, expand “Windows Logs” and click on “Application.”
4. Locate any recent logs under “Outlook,” “Windows Error Reporting,” or “Application Error.”

Review these logs for clues to the root cause of the error. If you can’t determine the problem from Event Viewer, proceed to the next steps.

Step 2: Disable faulty add-ins in safe mode

If an incompatible or malfunctioning Add-in is installed, it may cause Outlook to stop working. Here’s how you can troubleshoot it:

1. Launch Outlook in Safe Mode by searching for “outlook.exe /safe” in the Start Menu and pressing Enter.
2. Navigate to file > add-ins > go.
3. In the window that appears, disable all third-party add-ins except the default Microsoft add-ins.
4. Restart Outlook and observe whether the issue persists.

Step 3: Set up a new Outlook profile

A corrupt or damaged Outlook profile can cause frequent crashes. Setting up a new profile can help resolve the issue:

1. Open Control panel > mail.
2. Click “Show Profiles” and add a new profile by clicking “Add.”
3. Set up your email account and designate the new profile as your default.
4. Restart Outlook.

Step 4: Repair the Microsoft Office installation

If your Microsoft Office installation is corrupted, repairing it may resolve the issue. Here’s how:

1. Go to control panel > uninstall a program.
2. Locate Microsoft Office, select it, and click “Change.”
3. Opt for “Quick Repair” and click the “Repair” button.
4. Once the repair is complete, restart Outlook.

Step 5: Keep windows updated

Outdated Windows systems can lead to errors, including those in Outlook. To ensure smooth functionality, check for and install the latest Windows updates. After updating, relaunch Outlook and see if the issue has been fixed.

Step 6: Repair the PST file with ScanPST.EXE

If the issue stems from a corrupted PST file, it can cause Outlook to crash frequently. To repair this, use the built-in Inbox Repair Tool (ScanPST.EXE):

1. Locate “SCANPST.EXE” within your MS Office installation directory.
2. Run the tool, select your corrupted PST file, and click “Start” to initiate the scan.
3. After the scan, click “Repair.”
4. Restart Outlook to check if the issue has been resolved.

When SCANPST.EXE doesn’t work

If SCANPST.EXE is unable to repair the PST file due to size limitations or encryption, more advanced tools and expertise are required. Medha Cloud provides specialized IT Helpdesk Services for troubleshooting client-side issues like corrupt Outlook data files, ensuring minimal downtime. For server-related concerns, such as Exchange mailbox issues or connectivity errors, our Exchange Server Support offers expert assistance to help restore functionality.

Conclusion

When Outlook becomes unresponsive, it can disrupt your workflow and impact productivity. Basic troubleshooting steps may resolve many issues, but more complex cases—such as corrupt PST files or server-side problems—require advanced solutions. Whether the issue lies in Outlook’s client-side configuration or with the Exchange Server, Medha Cloud offers reliable, scalable IT support. Our IT Helpdesk Services can resolve client-side errors, while our Exchange Server Support ensures your email infrastructure remains robust and resilient, helping to restore email functionality with minimal disruption to your business.