How to Open Outlook in Safe Mode

If Microsoft Outlook is crashing, freezing, or behaving unusually, launching it in Safe Mode can help you troubleshoot the issue. Safe Mode disables add-ins and custom settings, allowing you to isolate what might be causing the problem.

Here’s how to open Outlook in Safe Mode on a Windows PC.

What is Outlook Safe Mode?

Outlook Safe Mode starts the application with minimal features:

• Disables all add-ins
• Skips reading the Outcmd.dat file (which stores toolbar and menu customizations)
• Bypasses the Reading Pane settings
• Prevents certain extensions from loading

This mode is useful for diagnosing issues caused by third-party add-ins or profile corruption.

How to Open Outlook in Safe Mode

There are two main ways to launch Outlook in Safe Mode.

Method 1: Using the Run Command

1. Press Windows + R on your keyboard.
2. In the Run dialog box, type:

   outlook.exe /safe
   

3. Click OK or press Enter.
4. Outlook will start in Safe Mode. You’ll see it in the window title: Microsoft Outlook (Safe Mode).
   

   

Method 2: Hold CTRL While Launching

1. Hold down the CTRL key on your keyboard.
2. While holding CTRL, click the Outlook shortcut (on your desktop or Start menu).
3. A prompt will appear asking:
   “Do you want to start Outlook in Safe Mode?”
4. Click Yes.

What to Do Next

Once Outlook is open in Safe Mode:

• Try using it normally to see if the issue is resolved.
• If Outlook works fine in Safe Mode, a faulty add-in may be the cause.
• Disable unnecessary add-ins under:
  File → Options → Add-ins → Manage COM Add-ins → Go…

Still Having Issues?

If Safe Mode resolves the problem but you’re unsure which add-in is responsible—or if Outlook won’t start at all—we can help.

📩 Contact All in IT Solutions for Outlook troubleshooting, repair, and support.