How to Open Outlook in Safe Mode?

• February 20, 2023
• Written by:
• James
• Reading Time: 11 minutes

Outlook is a widely used email client, but occasionally, you might face problems or encounter unexpected behavior when attempting to open Outlook in safe mode on Windows 11, 10, 8, or 7. Don’t worry! We have shared useful troubleshooting techniques that allow you to run the application with minimal functionality, helping you identify and resolve any problems. In this blog, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to open Outlook in safe mode in Windows.

How to Open Outlook in Safe Mode?

There are 3 ways to start Outlook safe mode on your system. First is by using the run dialog box, second is by using the command prompt and third is by creating a shortcut of outlook safe mode.

Method 1: Use Run Dialog Box

Below are the steps to open or run Outlook in safe mode using the run dialog box:

Step 1: Close Outlook: Before you opening Outlook in safe mode, ensure that the application is completely closed.

Step 2: Access the Run Dialog Box: To open the Run dialog box,

• Press the “Windows” key and “R” key simultaneously on your keyboard or, search for “Run” in the Windows Start menu.

• click on the “Run” app from the search result.

Step 3: Enter the Command: In the Run dialog box, type “outlook.exe /safe” (without quotes) and press “Enter” or click on the “OK” button. This command instructs Outlook to launch in safe mode.

Step 4: Wait for Outlook to Start: Wait for a few moments as Outlook launches in safe mode. You will notice a “Safe Mode” label displayed in the title bar of the Outlook window.

Step 5: Troubleshoot Issues: Safe mode disables any add-ins or extensions. Test different functionalities and check if the issues persist.

Step 6: Exit Safe Mode: Simply close Outlook.

Method 2: Use Command Prompt

To run Outlook in safe mode using the Command Prompt, follow these steps:

Step 1: Firstly, press the “Windows” key to launch the Start menu.

Step 2: Now, type “Command Prompt” in the search bar to find it. Click on the “Command Prompt” app to open the Command Prompt window.

Step 3: In the Command Prompt window,

• • Type outlook.exe /safe and press Enter.

Step 4: This will launch Outlook in safe mode, and you will see a “Safe Mode” label in the title bar of the Outlook window.

The Command Prompt provides a quick and efficient way for opening Outlook in safe mode and access the application with minimal functionality. It can help you troubleshoot and resolve issues you may be experiencing while using Outlook.

Read More: How to Fix Outlook When It’s Not Receiving Emails? [2023]

Method 3: Creating a Shortcut

It can be a convenient way to access it whenever needed. Here’s how you can create an Outlook safe mode shortcut:

• Step 1: Right-click on an empty area of your desktop or any desired location where you want to create the shortcut.
• Step 2: From the context menu, select “New” and then choose “Shortcut.” This will open the Create Shortcut wizard.

• Step 3: In the “Create Shortcut” window, you’ll be prompted to enter the location of the item. Type the following command:
  • outlook.exe /safe
  • Click on the “Next” button to proceed.
• Step 4: Provide a name for the shortcut. You can name it something like “Outlook Safe Mode” to easily identify its purpose.
• Step 5: Click on the “Finish” button to complete the creation of the shortcut.

Now, whenever you want to open Outlook in safe mode, simply double-click on the shortcut you created.

Remember, the shortcut will only work if Outlook is installed on your computer. Additionally, make sure to close any running instances of Outlook before launching it through the shortcut in safe mode.

Also Read: How to Resolve the Outlook Email Stuck in Outbox?

Importance of Using Outlook in Safe Mode

Now that you have learned how to start Outlook in safe mode, learn why to use safe mode for Outlook.

1. Troubleshooting and Issue Identification: Safe mode helps pinpoint problems by disabling add-ins, extensions, and customizations. It helps determine if the issue stems from a specific add-in or a broader Outlook problem.
2. Enhanced Stability and Performance: Safe mode streamlines Outlook by removing conflicting components, leading to improved stability and performance. This creates a smoother and more reliable experience.
3. Add-in Troubleshooting: Problematic add-ins can make Outlook unstable. Safe mode allows you to disable all add-ins, making it easier to identify and resolve add-in-related issues.
4. Preventing Crashes and Error Messages: Safe mode temporarily disables troublesome components, reducing the risk of crashes and errors. It provides an opportunity to address the problem without data loss or further damage.
5. Simplified Troubleshooting Process: Safe mode focuses on essential features, eliminating distractions. This simplifies troubleshooting and makes it more efficient.
6. Resolving Startup Issues: When Outlook fails to start or crashes during startup, safe mode bypasses certain procedures, aiding in identifying the cause. It’s particularly useful for incompatible add-ins, corrupted profiles, or conflicting settings.

Also Read: How to Fix Outlook Send Receive Error

Final Words:

Opening Outlook in safe mode helps troubleshoot and resolve issues within the application. By following the step-by-step guide on How to open Outlook in safe mode, you can easily access Outlook in safe mode, identify problematic add-ins or extensions, and restore the normal functionality of the application. Remember, safe mode is a temporary diagnostic mode, so users can resume using Outlook as usual once they have resolved the issues.

Written By

James

My name is David Wayne, and I work as a technical support specialist for the online industry. In the last 7 years, I have fixed a variety of email issues, such as Outlook server errors, Outlook send receive errors, Outlook working offline problems and etc. So if you are facing these types of problems, please do not hesitate to contact us without any hesitation.