Unable to attach files using Outlook.

Andrew Butler 0 Reputation points
2026-09-25T14:43:20.38+00:00

When I try to attach any file using the standard Outlook app on the PC, the whole app hangs and I have to cancel. This has developed suddenly, and I have no idea how to resolve it. Rebooting the PC doesn't help. This is the current latest version of Outlook, running on Microsoft 365, on a nearly new Asus Windows 11 computer.

Outlook | Windows | New Outlook for Windows | For business

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  1. Aetherin 3,930 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-09-25T15:15:34.5733333+00:00

    Hi @Andrew Butler,

    To help narrow down the cause, could you please check a couple of things?

    • Does it freeze before the file picker opens, or after selecting the file?
    • Are you able to attach the same file when using Outlook on the web?
    • Does dragging the file directly from File Explorer into the message produce the same result, or does it only happen when using the Attach file button?

    In the meantime, as a workaround, you may use Outlook on the web, drag and drop the file into the message, or upload it to OneDrive and send it as a sharing link.

    If the web version works normally, the issue may be specific to the local Outlook app. In that case, please try repairing the app: Windows Settings > Apps > Installed apps > Outlook (new) > Advanced options > Repair.

    If Repair does not help, try Reset, then sign in again with your account and test attaching a file once more.

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    Please give these steps a try and provide the results, along with any additional details you can share. I'd be happy to take a closer look and help investigate further.

    Thank you for your patience.

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  2. Holly Arthur 0 Reputation points
    2026-11-12T20:04:05.2033333+00:00

    Having a similar issue. The repair and reset did not help. Now I cannot open the application.

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