How to Fix Error 0x80040401 in Outlook

Are you encountering Error 0x80040401 in Outlook while trying to send or receive emails? This frustrating issue can disrupt your workflow and prevent you from accessing important messages. Fortunately, there are several proven solutions to resolve this problem.

In this guide, we’ll explore the causes of Outlook Error 0x80040401 and provide step-by-step fixes to get your email client working smoothly again.

What Causes Error 0x80040401 in Outlook?

Error 0x80040401 typically occurs due to:

• Corrupt Outlook profile
• Incorrect email account settings
• Conflicts with antivirus or firewall
• Outdated Outlook version
• Damaged PST or OST files

Methods to Fix Error 0x80040401 in Outlook

Now, let’s dive into the most effective troubleshooting methods.

Method 1: Restart Outlook in Safe Mode

Sometimes, add-ins can interfere with Outlook’s functionality. Booting Outlook in Safe Mode helps determine if an add-in is causing the issue.

1. Close Outlook completely.
2. Press Windows + R, type outlook.exe /safe, and hit Enter.
3. If Outlook opens without the error, an add-in is likely the culprit.
4. Disable add-ins one by one (File > Options > Add-ins) to identify the problematic one.

Method 2: Repair Outlook Data Files (PST/OST)

Corrupt PST or OST files can trigger Error 0x80040401. Use Microsoft’s built-in ScanPST tool to repair corrupted PST file:

1. Locate ScanPST.exe (usually in C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\root\OfficeXX).
2. Run the tool and browse for your Outlook data file.
3. Click Start to scan and repair errors.
4. Restart Outlook and check if the issue persists.

In Case The Corruption is High for ScanPST to Clean

If ScanPST fails to fix severe corruption, consider using a third-party tool like SysTools PST File Repair. This advanced software can recover heavily damaged PST files, including deleted emails, attachments, and folders. It supports large PST files and offers a user-friendly interface for effortless recovery. Simply download the tool, scan your corrupted PST file, and restore your data efficiently. This is particularly useful when Outlook Error 0x80040401 persists due to deep-level file corruption.

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Method 3: Recreate Your Outlook Profile

A corrupted Outlook profile can cause this error. Follow these steps to create a new profile:

1. Open Control Panel > Mail (32-bit).
2. Click Show Profiles and select Add.
3. Enter a new profile name and reconfigure your email account.
4. Set the new profile as default and restart Outlook.

Method 4: Disable Antivirus & Firewall Temporarily

Security software may block Outlook’s connection. Temporarily disable your antivirus and firewall to check if they’re causing the issue:

1. Open your antivirus settings and turn off real-time protection.
2. Disable Windows Firewall (Control Panel > Windows Defender Firewall > Turn off).
3. Restart Outlook and test email functionality.
4. If the error disappears, adjust your security software to allow Outlook.

Method 5: Update Microsoft Outlook

An outdated version of Outlook may have compatibility issues. Ensure you’re running the latest update:

1. Open Outlook and go to File > Office Account.
2. Click Update Options > Update Now.
3. Restart Outlook after updates are installed.

Method 6: Check Email Account Settings

Incorrect server settings can lead to Error 0x80040401. Verify your account configuration:

1. Go to File > Account Settings.
2. Select your email account and click Repair.
3. Follow the prompts to reconfigure server settings.
4. Alternatively, remove and re-add the account.

Method 7: Run Windows Update

System updates can resolve underlying issues affecting Outlook:

1. Press Windows + I and go to Update & Security.
2. Click Check for updates and install any pending updates.
3. Restart your PC and reopen Outlook.

Method 8: Use Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant

Microsoft’s Support and Recovery Assistant (SaRA) can diagnose and fix Outlook errors automatically:

1. Download SaRA from Microsoft’s official website.
2. Run the tool and select Outlook as the application.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to troubleshoot.

Final Thoughts

Error 0x80040401 in Outlook can be frustrating, but these solutions should help you resolve it quickly. Start with Safe Mode and profile repair, then move to antivirus checks and updates if needed.

If the problem persists, consider contacting Microsoft Support for further assistance. By following these steps, you should be able to fix Error 0x80040401 in Outlook and regain seamless email access.

If Errors have been detected in your PST file, you can resolve them here.

Did this guide help you? Share your experience in the comments below!