In this article, we are going to discuss the issue of Outlook Stuck on Loading Profile. If you are one of them searching about the how to fix this Outlook error. Then, you have landed on the right place. In this guide, we are discussing the most suitable ways to resolve the issue. We know the reasons why the Outlook stuck while loading profile.
Microsoft Outlook is a user-friendly program used to manage emails, calendars, contacts, and tasks. There are so many users use the MS Outlook especially common in workplaces. While it is a powerful tool, Outlook can sometimes freeze or get stuck on the “Loading Profile” screen when starting up. This usually happens because something is blocking it from opening properly. So, we discuss the reasons, why Outlook is stuck on loading profile.
Common Causes of the Outlook Stuck on Loading Profile
There are several reasons that can stop Outlook from opening correctly. Some of the reasons are discussed below-
- When the Outlook file is corrupted or damaged then it prevents them from starting correctly.
- Outlook running when outlook compatibility mode is enabled, it can sometimes freeze the startup process.
- Faulty and corrupted add-ins can have Outlook stuck on loading profiles.
- Corrupted OST/PST data files create problems and hang the outlook profile loading.
- Some security software is outdated like antivirus or firewall which interfere with the Outlook startup process.
- When windows or Offices can’t update then it can cause the compatibility issues.
- An existing, hung Outlook.exe process can prevent new instances from launching correctly and stuck background processes.
- If Outlook is trying to connect to Exchange or Office 365 and the network is slow or blocked.
- Corrupt Navigation Pane Settings file can stop Outlook from starting.
How to Fix Outlook Stuck on Loading Profile
1. Restart Your Computer
Sometimes the issue of Outlook stuck on loading profile is solved by simply restarting your computer. This clears background processes that may be blocking Outlook. Just restart your computer and then open Outlook.
2. Start Outlook in Safe Mode
When Outlook starts in Safe Mode, it disables add-ins that might be causing the issue. To do this:
- Press windows + R to open the Run box.
- Type outlook.exe /safe and press Enter.
- If Outlook opens, then an add-in is likely the problem.
- Go to File > Options > Add-ins, click Go, and disable all add-ins.
- Re-enable them one by one to find the one causing the issue.
3. Turn Off Compatibility Mode
Sometimes compatibility mode can cause issues if Windows is not up to date. To turn it off:
- Right-click the Outlook shortcut and choose Properties.
- Go to the Compatibility tab.
- Uncheck “Run this program in compatibility mode”.
- Click Apply, then press OK.
4. Kill Any Stuck Outlook Processes
If a process is stuck in the background, Outlook may not open properly. To end it:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.

- Look for Outlook.exe.
- If found, right-click it and choose End Task.

- Try opening Outlook again.
5. Repair Outlook Profile
A corrupted Outlook profile can cause loading issues. To repair or create a new profile:
- Go to Control Panel > Mail > Show Profiles.
- Select your profile and click Remove or create a new one.
- Reopen Outlook and use the new profile.
6. Repair Outlook Installation
If Outlook files are damaged, repairing Office may help:
- Go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.

- Click on Microsoft Office and choose Change > Quick Repair.

- If that doesn’t work, try Online Repair.
7. Delete the Navigation Pane Settings File
Sometimes this file gets corrupted, causing startup issues: Press window + R type outlook.exe /resetnavpane, then press Enter.
8. Check for Windows and Office Updates
If your system or Office is outdated, it can cause issues:
- Open Settings > Windows Update and check for updates.
- Open any Office app > File > Account > Update Options > Update Now.
9. Temporarily Disable Antivirus
Antivirus software may block Outlook from starting. Try disabling it temporarily. Disable your antivirus and then try to open Outlook. Don’t forget to turn your antivirus back on afterward.
If Outlook still doesn’t work properly and Outlook stuck on loading profile, try repairing or recreating the OST or PST file. These files can sometimes become corrupted and cause loading issues. But what if the above methods don’t work? If ScanPST.exe fails to repair the PST file. It likely means the file is severely damaged. This can lead to Outlook problems and may prevent it from loading your profile. In the next section, we’ll explore a professional tool designed to help resolve this issue effectively.
Use Professional Tool When Outlook Stuck on Loading Profile
If your Outlook remains stuck on the loading profile screen and the usual troubleshooting methods fail, it could be due to a corrupt PST file. In such cases, we recommend using the Yota PST Converter Tool. This powerful software can help recover data from damaged or inaccessible PST files, allowing you to regain access to your Outlook data. The tool also supports batch conversion of multiple PST files and can recover even permanently deleted items. With its user-friendly interface and reliable performance, the Yota PST Converter is an effective solution for fixing Outlook issues caused by PST corruption.
Simple Steps to Use Yota PST Converter Tool:
- Download and install the tool on your computer.
- Click on Open > Email Data Files > Outlook PST/OST.

- Browse and select the corrupt PST file causing the issue.
- Preview your data (emails, contacts, etc.) loaded by the tool.
- Click on Export and choose PST as the format to create a new file.

- Select the destination path and hit the Save button.

- Open Outlook and import the new PST file to access your recovered data.
Summing Up
Many users face the problem of Outlook stuck on loading profile in Windows 10 or 11. In this blog, we will share some quick fixes that you can try to resolve the issue. If these methods do not work, a corrupt PST file might be the cause. In such cases, you can try the Outlook Converter Tool to fix the damaged Outlook data files. This tool is designed to scan, repair, and restore PST files safely on your PC. You can also download the demo version of this software to test its features and efficiency.


