Classic outlook app hangs at Loading Profile

Les Record 25 Reputation points
2026-01-22T21:20:36.4733333+00:00

I open outlook and it works for a little while (minutes) then hangs - not responding. I kill it with task manager and then when I try to restart it it hangs at Loading Profile. This just started this week after working fine for at least the previous month. Help!

Outlook | Windows | Classic Outlook for Windows | For home
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Estrella721 48,020 Reputation points Independent Advisor
2026-01-22T21:56:04.67+00:00

Hi,

If you installed the January update and are using an Outlook POP account, this is a known issue.

Many users have reported the same issue where Outlook POP account profiles hang or freeze after installing the Windows 11 update KB5074109. Microsoft is already aware of this issue and is currently investigating the problem.

For an update on the status and some workarounds, please see the article below:

https://support.microsoft.com/office/classic-outlook-pop-account-profiles-hang-and-freeze-after-windows-11-update-to-kb5074109-590fe356-ecc2-49f4-b9e3-bd39fafa58f6

In that article, they also shared a thread from Microsoft Q&A related to the same issue. Some users mentioned that uninstalling the latest update resolved the problem for them.

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  1. AI answer

    2026-01-22T21:20:46.94+00:00

    If Outlook is hanging at "Loading Profile" and subsequently becomes unresponsive, this issue may be caused by several factors. Here are some potential solutions you can try:

    1. Check for Updates: Ensure that you have installed the latest updates for Outlook. Sometimes, missing updates can lead to performance issues.
    2. Disable Add-ins: A previously installed add-in might be interfering with Outlook. Try starting Outlook in safe mode to see if it works without add-ins. You can do this by holding down the Ctrl key while starting Outlook.
    3. Repair Office Programs: You can automatically repair your Office program files. To do this, exit any running Office programs, go to Control Panel > Programs and Features, right-click on Microsoft Office, and select Repair.
    4. Create a New Outlook Profile: Sometimes, the user profile can become corrupted. You can create a new profile by going to Control Panel > Mail > Show Profiles, and then adding a new profile.
    5. Run the Classic Outlook Advanced Diagnostics Troubleshooter: This tool can help identify and resolve issues with Outlook. Make sure you're using the same Windows device that classic Outlook is installed on and that it's running Windows 10 or later.
    6. Check Antivirus Software: Ensure that your antivirus software is up-to-date and not conflicting with Outlook. Outdated antivirus software can cause issues with Outlook's functionality.

    If the problem persists after trying these steps, consider checking for any other applications that might be conflicting with Outlook or consult Microsoft support for further assistance.

    References:

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