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Outlook Only Opens in Safe Mode: 4 Solutions That can Help
Discover tried-and-true strategies vetted by our team of specialists
4 min. read
Updated onFebruary 9, 2024
updated onFebruary 9, 2024
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Key notes
The KB3114409 update (from late 2015) triggered an Outlook error in which the email software only starts in Safe Mode for some users. Consequently, some users can’t open Outlook in its standard mode.
The software starts without custom toolbar settings or extensions in Safe Mode, and users can’t save preferences or templates. These are some of the resolutions that might fix Outlook applications that only start in Safe Mode.
Why does Outlook only open in safe mode?
From what we gather from other users, there are a few things that may trigger it, and here are the top factors.
The solutions we discuss will help if Outlook 2016 opens in safe mode, Outlook 365 only opens in safe mode, or for other versions like 2013 or 2007.
What can I do to fix Outlook when it only starts in Safe Mode?
1. Turn Off Outlook Add-ins
Outlook might start in Safe Mode when antiquated add-ins conflict with the software. Therefore, turning Outlook add-ins off might fix the software starting in Safe Mode.
2. Roll Back Windows 10
As updates are known to be responsible for Outlook starting in Safe Mode, rolling back Windows 10 to an earlier date is another potential resolution. That will undo both Windows and application updates after a selected restore point.
3. Run a Scanpst.exe Scan
Outlook might start in Safe Mode if its PST file is corrupted. Users can fix corrupted PST files with the Scanpst.exe utility for Outlook.
4. Deselect the Run this Program in Compatibility Mode Setting
Some users have confirmed that deselecting theRun this program in compatibility modeoption fixed Outlook starting in Safe Mode.
So, if Outlook has been configured to run in compatibility mode, that resolution might fix the matter.
Those are some of the best resolutions that might fix Outlook starting in Safe Mode. In addition to those resolutions, setting up a new Outlook user profile might also fix the issue.
Before you go, don’t hesitate to check our guide on what to do ifOutlook email view has changed.
Let us know in the comments below what worked for you.
Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
Matthew is a freelancer who has produced a variety of articles on various topics related to technology. His main focus is the Windows OS and all the things surrounding it.
He is passionate about the tech world, always staying up-to-date with the latest and greatest. With an analytical view, he likes problem-solving, focusing on errors and their causes.
In his free time, he likes to read and write about history and tries to always develop new skills.
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Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
He is passionate about everything surrounding Microsoft’s OS, focusing on troubleshooting guides & tips for everyday problems.
