Skip to main content

How to Fix: Outlook “Cannot start Microsoft Outlook” Error

When launching Outlook, you may see this error message:

Issue

When launching Outlook, you may see this error message:
​

Cannot start Microsoft Outlook. Cannot open the Outlook window. The set of folders cannot be opened. The file Outlook.pst is not an Outlook data file (.pst).
​

This usually happens due to a corrupted Outlook profile.

Insert Download

Solution

Follow these steps to recreate your Outlook profile:

  1. Go to the Windows search bar and type regedit to open the Registry Editor.

  2. Navigate to the following path (for Outlook 2016, 2019, or 2021):

Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Office\16.0\Outlook\Profiles

For Outlook 2013, use:

Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Office\15.0\Outlook\Profiles
3. Delete all folders listed under Profiles.
4. Restart your computer.
5. Open Outlook and recreate your email profile.

Related Articles

How to Fix: “We Can’t Install” ErrorHow to Fix “Account Error” in Office Applications

Did this answer your question?