Microsoft Outlook is one of the most commonly used email applications, facilitating efficient communication and productivity.
However, like any software, it can occasionally present some issues. One such problem is Outlook automatically opening in safe mode. This article will provide a deep dive into the causes of this issue and offer ten easy solutions to fix it.
What Does It Mean When Outlook Starts in Safe Mode?
Starting Outlook in Safe Mode means the application launches with a minimal set of drivers and plugins. When Outlook opens in Safe Mode, it indicates there’s an issue preventing it from starting normally.
This problem can be caused by various factors, including incorrect settings, software conflicts, or faulty add-ins.
Causes of the Outlook Starting in Safe Mode Error
Here are some of the causes of this error:
Faulty Add-ins: The most common cause is a faulty or incompatible add-in. Add-ins enhance Outlook’s functionality, but they can also cause issues, especially after an update.
Corrupted Navigation Pane settings: If the navigation pane settings file – ‘profilename.xml,’ where ‘profilename’ is your Outlook profile’s name – is corrupted, Outlook may start in Safe Mode.
Damaged Outlook data files: Damaged or corrupted PST and OST files can cause Outlook to open in safe mode.
10 Easy Solutions to Fix the Outlook Starting in Safe Mode Error
Here are some of the best solutions to fix this issue:
Solution 1: Disable Add-ins
One of the first steps in troubleshooting is to disable add-ins as they’re often the culprits.
Step 1: Open Outlook in Safe Mode.
Step 2: Go to ‘File,’ then ‘Options,’ and then ‘Add-ins.’
Step 3: In the ‘Manage’ box, select ‘COM Add-ins,’ and click ‘Go.’
Step 4: Clear all the checkboxes in the list and click ‘OK.’
Step 5: Restart Outlook.
Solution 2: Reset Navigation Pane
Resetting the navigation pane can solve the issue if its settings file is corrupted.
Step 1: Close Outlook.
Step 2: Press Win + R, type “outlook.exe /resetnavpane,” and hit ‘Enter.’
Solution 3: Repair Outlook Data Files
You can use the built-in ‘Inbox Repair Tool’ (SCANPST.EXE) to repair corrupted data files.
Step 1: Close Outlook.
Step 2: Find SCANPST.EXE (typically in the Outlook installation folder), double-click to open it.
Step 3: Click ‘Browse,’ locate your PST file, and click ‘Start.’
Step 4: If errors are found, click ‘Repair.’
Solution 4: Create a New Outlook Profile
At times, a corrupted Outlook profile can cause the software to start in Safe Mode. Here’s how you can create a new profile:
Step 1: Close Outlook.
Step 2: Go to Control Panel > Mail > Show Profiles.
Step 3: Click ‘Add’ and follow the prompts to create a new profile.
Step 4: Once created, set the new profile as the default.
Solution 5: Disable Compatibility Mode
If Outlook is running in compatibility mode, it may open in Safe Mode.
Step 1: Right-click on the Outlook shortcut on your desktop, and choose ‘Properties.’
Step 2: Go to the ‘Compatibility’ tab.
Step 3: Uncheck the box that says ‘Run this program in compatibility mode for.’
Step 4: Click ‘Apply,’ then ‘OK.’
Solution 6: Update Outlook
Make sure you are using the latest version of Outlook as outdated versions can cause issues.
Step 1: Open Outlook.
Step 2: Go to ‘File,’ then ‘Office Account,’ then ‘Update Options.’
Step 3: Click on ‘Update Now.’
Solution 7: Perform a Clean Boot
Performing a clean boot can help if there’s a software conflict causing the issue.
Step 1: Press Win + R, type ‘msconfig’ and hit ‘Enter.’
Step 2: Unde the ‘Services’ tab, check ‘Hide all Microsoft services,’ then click ‘Disable all.’
Step 3: Go to the ‘Startup’ tab, click ‘Open Task Manager,’ disable all startup items, and close Task Manager.
Step 4: Click ‘OK’ in the System Configuration window, and restart your computer.
Solution 8: Repair Office
Repairing your Office installation can also solve the issue.
Step 1: Go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
Step 2: Right-click on ‘Microsoft Office,’ and choose ‘Change.’
Step 3: In the next window, choose ‘Quick Repair,’ and click ‘Repair.’
Solution 9: Uninstall and Reinstall Outlook
If nothing else works, you may need to uninstall and reinstall Outlook.
Step 1: Go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
Step 2: Right-click on ‘Microsoft Office,’ and choose ‘Uninstall.’
Step 3: Once the uninstall process is complete, reinstall Outlook from the official website.
Solution 10: Use Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant
The Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant can troubleshoot and fix several Outlook issues.
Step 1: Download and install the Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant from the official website.
Step 2: Open the tool, select ‘Outlook,’ and follow the prompts.
Conclusion
While it can be frustrating when Outlook consistently opens in Safe Mode, this guide provides you with ten easy solutions to resolve the issue. Remember to backup your data regularly to prevent data loss during the troubleshooting process.
