Outlook 2019 stops opening for six reasons that Microsoft lists. Start in safe mode, disable add-ins, create a new profile, repair the data file, reset the navigation pane and check version support. Safe mode points to an add-in when it opens. Disable add-ins one at a time and test after every step.
You double click the icon and nothing opens or Outlook shows Cannot start Microsoft Outlook. Microsoft publishes a fix list for this message.
Steps follow the Microsoft Support page on Outlook not starting.
How do You Start Outlook in Safe Mode?
- Press Windows key + R.
- Type
outlook /safeand select OK.
Microsoft states that an add-in causes the problem when Outlook opens in safe mode.
How do You Find a Faulty Add-in?
Open File, Options and Add-ins. Disable the COM add-ins. Enable them one at a time to find the add-in that causes the failure. Microsoft advises you to disable add-ins and not remove them.
How do You Create a New Outlook Profile?
Create a new profile and start Outlook with it. When Outlook opens, the old profile is corrupted.
How do You Repair the Data File?
Close Outlook and repair the data file with the Inbox Repair Tool, scanpst.exe. See how to use Scanpst.exe for the steps.
How to Reset the Navigation Pane?
Start Outlook.exe /resetnavpane. Microsoft states you must do this on every computer that has the problem.
Does Outlook 2019 Still Connect to Microsoft 365?
Microsoft warns that Office 2016 and 2019 clients can lose support for connecting to Microsoft 365. Check your version when the other fixes do not work.
Microsoft also lists a classic Outlook startup troubleshooter for Microsoft 365 business customers on Windows 10 or later. Related reading: why Outlook cannot perform your search.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I Start Outlook in Safe Mode?
Press Windows key + R, type outlook /safe and select OK.
Should I Remove Add-ins?
No. Microsoft advises you to disable them and not remove them.
Why Reset the Navigation Pane?
It resets the navigation pane. Do it on every computer with the problem.
Can a Corrupted Profile Stop Outlook?
Yes. Microsoft suggests a new profile to test this.
Key Takeaways
- Outlook safe mode points to a faulty add-in.
- Disable add-ins and do not remove them.
- New profiles test for corruption.
- Inbox Repair Tool repairs the data file.
- Office 2016 and 2019 can lack support for Microsoft 365.
Sources and References
Facts follow Microsoft Support.