How to Fix Microsoft Outlook Crashing, Freezing, or Not Responding on Windows

If you’re using the classic Microsoft Outlook app on your Windows computer and it keeps Microsoft Outlook crashing, freezing, or becoming unresponsive, you’re not alone. Many users face this frustrating issue where Outlook refuses to close or simply stops responding. Fortunately, there are a few simple fixes that can help you get Outlook back up and running smoothly.

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Fix Microsoft Outlook Crashing, Freezing, or Not Responding

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step methods to troubleshoot and resolve the problem.

Step 1: Check for Updates in Microsoft Office

One of the most common reasons Outlook misbehaves is that the app isn’t updated. A pending update may cause compatibility issues or performance problems.

Here’s how to check for updates:

1. Open another Office app such as Word or Excel.
2. In the bottom-left corner, click on Account.
3. In the new window, look for Update Options.
4. Click Update Now.

If updates are available, install them. This simple step often resolves Outlook crashing and freezing issues.

Step 2: Run a Quick Repair of Microsoft Office

If updating doesn’t solve the issue, the next step is to repair your Office installation.

Follow these steps:

1. Press Windows + R on your keyboard.
2. Type appwiz.cpl and hit OK. This will open the list of installed programs.
3. Locate Microsoft Office in the list.
4. Select it, then click Change at the top.
5. When prompted, click Yes.
6. You’ll now see two repair options:
   • Quick Repair: Fixes most issues quickly without needing internet.
   • Online Repair: A deeper repair that requires internet and takes longer.

Start with Quick Repair. If that doesn’t fix the issue, then choose Online Repair for a complete reinstallation of Microsoft Office.

Step 3: Use Online Repair for Persistent Problems

If Outlook is still crashing or freezing after a quick repair, performing an Online Repair is the next best solution.

• Online Repair removes and reinstalls the Office apps, ensuring that any corrupted files are replaced.
• This process takes longer and requires a stable internet connection, but it’s highly effective for stubborn problems.

By the end of this process, not only Outlook but also Word, Excel, and other Office apps should work seamlessly again.

Conclusion

Dealing with a crashing or frozen Microsoft Outlook can be frustrating, but in most cases, the fix is simple. Start by updating your Office apps, then try a quick repair, and finally, use online repair if the issue persists. These steps will resolve most Outlook performance issues without needing advanced troubleshooting.

By keeping your apps updated and occasionally repairing them, you can ensure a smoother experience with Outlook and the rest of the Microsoft Office suite.

If you found this guide useful, be sure to bookmark Crazy Errors for more quick tech fixes, tips, and solutions!