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Fortunately, most of these errors stem from configuration conflicts, corrupted data files, or outdated components that can be fixed with a few targeted steps. When Outlook email stops updating automatically, it’s usually a configuration or cache issue. By following the steps above, you can quickly restore real-time syncing on Windows.

Use Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant (SaRA)

Whitelist Outlook in your antivirus/firewall settings to restore live sync. If sync logs display "Completed," Outlook is connected. If stuck on "Disconnected," fix your mail server settings. Occasionally, classic Outlook tries to run a process in the background. Auto-archive, sending and receiving a very large attachment, or running some of the other mailbox tools can all be done in the FixTechGuide Office 365 troubleshooting background. Check the status bar at the bottom of the screen to see if another process is running.

Step 8 – Recreate Your Outlook Profile

If it does, whitelist outlook.exe in your antivirus settings.You can start Outlook in safe mode, disable your add-ins, and then try to open Outlook normally.Auto-archive, sending and receiving a very large attachment, or running some of the other mailbox tools can all be done in the background.There are three steps you can take to try to get Outlook working again.Security software can sometimes block Outlook’s connection to the mail server.Delete the existing group and click "New." Name it All Accounts and ensure both "Include this group in send/receive" options are checked.This command deletes the custom folder views, restoring default configurations.

Once back online, Outlook will immediately start syncing your mailbox with the server. It’s better to clear cache, recreate send/receive groups, and reset your profile for faster results. You can start Outlook in safe mode, disable your add-ins, and then try to open Outlook normally.

Why Outlook Fails to Update Until Restart

This solution prevents display rendering errors that occur after driver or DirectX updates. Third-party add-ins are among the most common Outlook OST vs PST repair culprits for Outlook not opening properly. Safe Mode allows you to start Outlook with all extensions temporarily disabled. Once the scan completes, reopen Outlook and check if the issue is resolved.

How to Fix Outlook Not Opening on Windows 11

Rebuilding OST and resetting send/receive fixes it in most cases. You might need to set Windows Update to automatically download and install recommended updates. Installing any important, recommended, and optional updates can often correct problems by replacing out-of-date files and fixing vulnerabilities. To install the latest Windows and Office updates, click the link below.

Adjust Cached Exchange Mode Settings

Download the tool from Microsoft and run the Outlook diagnostic to auto-detect server and account issues. This often resolves startup errors caused by configuration issues. Open Control Panel → Programs and Features → Microsoft Office → Change → Quick Repair. If the issue persists, select "Online Repair" to reinstall essential Outlook components without deleting your data. Download and run SaRA Tool (Support and Recovery Assistant) from Microsoft’s official site. It automatically repairs sync connection status shows disconnected and credential problems for Outlook and Exchange accounts.