How to Fix Outlook Attachments Not Downloading or Opening in the Desktop App

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to Fix Outlook Attachments Not Downloading or Opening in the Desktop App. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

When attachments in the Outlook desktop app refuse to download, preview, or open, it can disrupt your workflow and prevent you from accessing important files. This issue is often caused by corrupted temporary files, security settings, or a damaged Outlook profile. Follow the steps below to resolve the problem.

Quick Fix Steps

1. Restart the Outlook desktop application.
2. Check your internet connection to ensure you can access other websites.
3. Try opening the attachment from the Outlook web app at outlook.office.com to determine if the issue is specific to the desktop app.
4. Disable any third-party antivirus add-ins temporarily to see if they are blocking the download.

Detailed Instructions

1. Clear the Outlook Temporary Files Folder

Outlook stores attachments in a temporary folder before opening them. If this folder becomes full or corrupted, new attachments may fail to open.

1. Close Outlook completely.
2. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
3. Type %temp% and press Enter.
4. Look for folders starting with OLK or Outlook Temp.
5. Delete the contents of these folders.
6. Restart Outlook and try opening the attachment again.

If you cannot find the OLK folder, it may be hidden. Ensure "Hidden items" is checked in the File Explorer View tab.

2. Disable Protected View for Attachments

Protected View is a security feature that can sometimes prevent attachments from opening correctly.

1. Open Outlook.
2. Go to File > Options.
3. Select Trust Center from the left menu.
4. Click the Trust Center Settings... button.
5. Select Protected View.
6. Uncheck the options for opening files from the internet or other potentially unsafe locations.
7. Click OK and restart Outlook.

Disabling Protected View reduces your security. Only do this if you trust the source of your emails and re-enable it once the issue is resolved.

3. Repair the Office Installation

If the Outlook application files are corrupted, a quick repair can restore missing components.

1. Close all Microsoft Office applications.
2. Open the Control Panel on your Windows PC.
3. Go to Programs > Programs and Features.
4. Find Microsoft 365 or Microsoft Office in the list.
5. Right-click it and select Change.
6. Choose Quick Repair and click Repair.
7. Restart your computer once the process is complete.

If you have tried all these steps and attachments still will not download or open, please open a ticket with our support team for further assistance.

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