Outlook Freezing When Searching: 5 Ways to Fix it

Add-ins can often cause problems such as this one

3 min. read

Updated onSeptember 18, 2024

updated onSeptember 18, 2024

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Outlook freezing when searching can be a real productivity killer. If you’re facing this issue, don’t worry—I’ve got some quick solutions to help you get back on track.

Why is Outlook not responding when searching?

This issue can appear due to installed add-ins or if your search index is out of date. A corrupted Outlook profile is also a common reason for this issue.

What can I do if Outlook is freezing when searching?

Before we start, make sure that both Windows and Outlook are up to date.

1. Start Outlook in Safe Mode

Running Outlook in Safe Mode disables add-ins, which can help identify if they are causing the issue. Disabling problematic add-ins can resolve crashes.

2. Repair Outlook Data Files (PST/OST)

This task can also be accomplished with the help of professional repair software. A tool likeIOLO System Mechanicis able to quickly scan your computer and deploy the right fix for any issue it identifies.

IOLO System Mechanic

3. Update search index

4. Create a new Outlook profile

5. Repair Office

If this doesn’t work, you’ll have to go and reinstall Office from scratch.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the issue of Outlook freezing when searching. This isn’t the only issue with searching, many reported thatOutlook search is not showing recent emails.

As for other issues, don’t miss our guide on what to do ifOutlook keeps crashingor our article on how to fixOutlook if it crashes when opening an email with an attachment.

Outlook Freezing When Searching: 5 Ways to Fix it#

What can I do if Outlook is freezing when searching?#

1. Start Outlook in Safe Mode#

2. Repair Outlook Data Files (PST/OST)#

IOLO System Mechanic#

3. Update search index#

4. Create a new Outlook profile#

5. Repair Office#