Classic Outlook Freezes

Question

Outlook (classic) keeps freezing on me. I reinstalled the Microsoft Apps and restarted the machine several times, now.

Answer 1

If Outlook (classic) keeps freezing, it could be due to several reasons. Here are some troubleshooting steps you can take:

1. Check for Updates: Ensure that you have the latest updates installed for Outlook. Sometimes, freezing issues can be resolved with the latest patches.
2. Disable Add-ins: A previously installed add-in may be interfering with Outlook. Try disabling any add-ins to see if that resolves the issue.
3. Repair Office Programs: You can automatically repair your Office program files. To do this, exit any running Microsoft Office programs, open Control Panel, go to Programs and Features, right-click on Microsoft Office, and select Repair.
4. Repair Outlook Data Files: Use the Inbox repair tool (scanpst.exe) to scan and repair your Outlook data files. This tool can help resolve issues caused by corrupted files.
5. Check Antivirus Software: Ensure your antivirus software is up-to-date and check if it conflicts with Outlook. You may need to disable any integration with Outlook or check for any add-ins related to your antivirus software.
6. Create a New User Profile: Sometimes, creating a new Outlook profile can resolve freezing issues. You can do this through Control Panel under Mail settings.
7. Perform a Selective Startup: This advanced step involves starting Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs to identify if background applications are causing the issue.

If these steps do not resolve the freezing issue, you may want to consult further resources or support.

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References:

• Outlook not responding error or Outlook freezes when you open a file or send mail
• Outlook not responding error or Outlook freezes when you open a file or send mail

Answer 2

Hello Anthony Parenti
Thank you for posting question to Microsoft Q&A Forum.

According to this issue, please review the steps from Q&A Assist above for basic troubleshooting steps. The sixth option - which is "Create a New User Profile" should be my main suggestion.
Instruction for creating new Outlook profile: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/create-an-outlook-profile-f544c1ba-3352-4b3b-be0b-8d42a540459d

You could also run Outlook in safe mode by pressing Windows + R to open "Run" then type Outlook /safe to see if Outlook could normally open.

May I know if your email account type is POP? If so then there is a known issue related to this:
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/classic-outlook-pop-account-profiles-hang-and-freeze-after-windows-11-update-to-kb5074109-590fe356-ecc2-49f4-b9e3-bd39fafa58f6
The only current solution is to uninstall the recent update KB5074109 if you are having POP account and your Outlook freezes.
I am looking forward to your response.

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