Fixed – Cannot Start Microsoft Outlook. Cannot Open the Outlook Window

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Summary: Microsoft Outlook is a widely used email client that provides users with a seamless way to manage their emails, calendars, tasks, and contacts. However, many users have encountered a frustrating issue where they cannot start Microsoft Outlook and receive an error message saying, “Cannot start Microsoft Outlook. Cannot open the Outlook window.” This error can prevent users from accessing their emails and other important information, leading to disruptions in productivity.

In this blog, we’ll explore what the “Cannot start Microsoft Outlook – Cannot open the Outlook window” error is, why it occurs, and how to resolve it using manual methods. We’ll also provide a professional PST File Recovery solution that can help you fix this issue quickly and effectively.

What is the “Cannot Start Microsoft Outlook” Error?

The “Cannot start Microsoft Outlook – Cannot open the Outlook window” error often happens when users try to launch Microsoft Outlook, but the application doesn’t open. Outlook then shows an error message stating that it cannot start or open the Outlook window.

This kind of common Outlook errors can be particularly frustrating because it prevents users from accessing their email accounts, calendars, and other Outlook features. The error can affect different versions of Microsoft Outlook, including Outlook 2010, Outlook 2013, Outlook 2016, Outlook 2019, and Outlook for Microsoft 365.

Causes of the “Cannot Start Microsoft Outlook” Error

There are numerous reasons why you might encounter the “Cannot start Microsoft Outlook – Cannot open the Outlook window” error. Some of the most common causes include:

  1. Outlook Profile Got Corrupted: If your Outlook profile becomes corrupted, it can prevent Outlook from starting properly.
  2. Navigation Pane Issues: The Navigation Pane is a critical part of the Outlook interface, and if it becomes corrupted or damaged, it can cause this error.
  3. Incompatible Add-ins: Sometimes, third-party add-ins can interfere with Outlook’s startup process, leading to this error.
  4. Outdated or Corrupted Outlook Data File (PST or OST): If your Outlook data file (PST or OST) is corrupted or outdated, it can prevent Outlook from opening.
  5. Issues with Outlook Configuration Settings: Incorrect or corrupted configuration settings can also lead to this error.
  6. Problems with Outlook Installation: If your Outlook installation is damaged or incomplete, it can cause issues when starting the application.

How to Fix the “Cannot Start Microsoft Outlook – Cannot Open the Outlook Window” Issue

Fortunately, there are several methods you can use to resolve the “Cannot start Microsoft Outlook – Cannot open the Outlook window” error. Below are some manual solutions that can help you fix the issue.

1. Restart Your Computer

Before attempting any advanced troubleshooting steps, try restarting your computer. Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary issues that are preventing Outlook from starting.

2. Start Outlook in Safe Mode

Starting Outlook in Safe Mode disables all add-ins and custom settings, allowing you to determine if an add-in or configuration issue is causing the problem.

Steps to Start Outlook in Safe Mode:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type outlook.exe /safe and press Enter.
  3. If Outlook starts successfully in Safe Mode, the issue is likely caused by an add-in or custom setting.

How to Disable Problematic Add-ins:

  1. In Outlook, go to File > Options > Add-ins.
  2. Select COM Add-ins from the Manage drop-down menu and click Go.
  3. Uncheck all add-ins and click OK.
  4. Restart Outlook normally to see if the issue is resolved.

3. Reset the Navigation Pane

The Navigation Pane contains shortcuts to your email folders, calendars, and other features. If it becomes corrupted, it can prevent Outlook from starting.

Steps to Reset the Navigation Pane:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type outlook.exe /resetnavpane and press Enter.
  3. This command resets the Navigation Pane to its default settings, which can resolve issues with Outlook startup.

4. Create a New Outlook Profile

If your Outlook profile is corrupted, creating a new profile can resolve the issue.

Steps to Create a New Outlook Profile:

  1. Go to Control Panel > Mail > Show Profiles.
  2. Click Add to create a new profile and enter a name for it.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your email account in the new profile.
  4. Set the new profile as the default by selecting it and clicking Always use this profile.
  5. Restart Outlook to see if the issue is resolved.

5. Repair the Outlook Data File (PST/OST)

If your Outlook data file (PST or OST) is corrupted, you can use the built-in Inbox Repair Tool (Scanpst.exe) to repair it.

Steps to Repair the Outlook Data File:

  1. Locate the Scanpst.exe tool on your computer. The location varies depending on your Outlook version:
    • Outlook 2019: C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\root\Office16
    • Outlook 2016: C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\root\Office16
    • Outlook 2013: C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\Office15
  2. Double-click Scanpst.exe to open the tool.
  3. Click Browse to locate your Outlook data file (PST/OST).
  4. Click Start to begin the scan and repair process.
  5. After completing the repair, restart Outlook to check if the issue is resolved.

6. Repair the Outlook Installation

If the issue persists, the Outlook installation might have damage. You can repair it using the following steps:

  1. Go to Control Panel > Programs and Features.
  2. Select Microsoft Office and click Change.
  3. Choose Quick Repair or Online Repair, depending on your preference.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the repair process.
  5. Finish the repair, and then restart Outlook to check if the issue is resolved.

Professional Way to Fix “Cannot Open the Outlook Window” Issue

If the manual methods mentioned above do not resolve the issue, you may need to use a professional tool to fix the “Cannot start Microsoft Outlook – Cannot open the Outlook window” error. One such tool is Trijatech PST Recovery Tool.

It is a powerful and reliable solution for repairing corrupted PST files, which are often the root cause of Outlook startup issues. This tool can recover emails, contacts, calendars, tasks, and other data from severely corrupted PST files, ensuring that you regain access to your important information.

Conclusion

The “Cannot start Microsoft Outlook – Cannot open the Outlook window” error can be a major inconvenience, especially if you rely on Outlook for your daily email communication and scheduling. Fortunately, there are several manual methods you can use to troubleshoot and resolve this issue, including starting Outlook in Safe Mode, resetting the Navigation Pane, creating a new Outlook profile, repairing the Outlook data file, and repairing the Outlook installation.

If these manual methods do not work, a professional tool like Trijatech PST Recovery Tool can help you fix the issue and recover your important Outlook data. By following the steps outlined in this blog, you can resolve the “Cannot start Microsoft Outlook” error and regain access to your Outlook account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Query 1: What should I do if Outlook still won’t open after trying all manual methods?

Ans: If Outlook still won’t open after trying all manual methods, consider using a professional tool to fix the issue. This tool can repair corrupted PST files that may be preventing Outlook from starting.

Query 2: How can I prevent the “Cannot start Microsoft Outlook” error in the future?

Ans: To prevent this error in the future, regularly back up your Outlook data, avoid installing incompatible add-ins, and keep your Outlook software and data files updated.

Query 3: Can I recover my emails if Outlook won’t start?

Ans: Yes, you can recover your emails by repairing the corrupted PST file using the Scanpst.exe tool or a professional Tool.

Query 4: What causes the “Cannot start Microsoft Outlook – Cannot open the Outlook window” error?

Ans: Corrupted Outlook profiles, navigation pane issues, incompatible add-ins, outdated or corrupted data files, or problems with Outlook installation can cause this error.

Query 5: Is it safe to use the Scanpst.exe tool to repair my Outlook data file?

Ans: Yes, it is safe to use the Scanpst.exe tool to repair your Outlook data file. However, if the corruption is severe, consider using a professional PST repair tool for better results.

Deckon Rock
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