Outlook could not create the work file error when you start Outlook

• Applies to:

  Outlook 2019, Outlook 2016, Outlook 2013, Microsoft Outlook 2010, Outlook for Microsoft 365

Original KB number:   3062443

Symptoms

When you start Microsoft Outlook, you receive the following error message:

Outlook could not create the work file. Check the temp environment variable.

Cause

This problem occurs when the Cache string value in the registry doesn't point to a valid directory.

Resolution

Warning

Serious problems might occur if you modify the registry incorrectly by using Registry Editor or by using another method. These problems might require you to reinstall the operating system. Microsoft cannot guarantee that these problems can be solved. Modify the registry at your own risk.

To resolve this issue, follow these steps.

1. Exit Outlook.

2. Start Registry Editor. To do this, use one of the following procedures, as appropriate for your situation:

   • Windows 10, Windows 8.1, and Windows 8: Press Windows Key+R to open a Run dialog box. Type regedit.exe and then press OK.
   • Windows 7 or Windows Vista: Select Start, type regedit.exe in the search box, and then press Enter.

3. Locate and then select the following subkey:
   HKEY_CURRENT_ USER \Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\User Shell Folders

4. Right-click the Cache key, and then select Modify.

   Note

   The Cache string value varies, depending on your version of Windows.

   Windows 10, or Windows 8.1

   DWORD: Cache
   Type: REG_EXPAND_SZ
   Data: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\INetCache

   Windows 8, Windows 7, or Windows Vista

   DWORD: Cache
   Type: REG_EXPAND_SZ
   Data: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\Temporary Internet Files

   Windows XP

   DWORD: Cache
   Type: REG_EXPAND_SZ
   Data: %USERPROFILE%\Local Settings\Temporary Internet Files

5. On the File menu, select Exit to exit Registry Editor.