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Classic Outlook Plagued by Crashes: Microsoft Offers Workaround
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Microsoft has issued a workaround to address a crashing issue in the classic Outlook email client that occurs when users open or initiate a new email. The problem is impacting users on the Monthly Enterprise Channel who updated Outlook for Microsoft 365, beginning with version 2504 (Build 18730.20122).
Outlook Crash Details
The core issue stems from Outlook’s inability to access the Forms Library, leading to crashes when opening or starting new emails. According to a Microsoft support document, “when you open or start a new email, classic Outlook crashes. This issue occurs becuase Outlook cannot open the forms Library.” The issue is particularly prevalent in virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) environments, and Microsoft has escalated the issue for further investigation [[1]].
Did You Know? The classic version of Outlook is still widely used in enterprise environments despite the push towards newer versions and web-based alternatives.
Temporary Fix: Creating the FORMS2 Folder
Until a permanent solution is deployed, Microsoft recommends a temporary fix involving the manual creation of a missing folder. Users are advised to create the FORMS2 folder at the following location: `C:Users<username>AppDataLocalMicrosoftFORMS2`.
Steps to Implement the Workaround:
- Close Outlook and all other Office applications.
- Select Start > run, then enter the path `%localappdata%microsoft` and select OK.
- In the File Explorer menu, select New > Folder and name it `FORMS2`.
Other Known Outlook Issues
In addition to the crashing issue, Microsoft is also investigating another problem that causes mailbox folders to flicker and move unexpectedly when moving items in shared mailboxes. This issue began with version 2505 (Build 18827.20128).As a workaround, users can disable the caching of shared mailboxes by toggling off the “Download Shared Folders” option, although this may lead to performance degradation.
Pro Tip: Regularly check the Microsoft Support website for the latest updates and known issues related to Outlook and other Microsoft products.
recent Fixes and Updates
Last week, Microsoft released a service update to resolve a bug that caused Outlook LTSC 2019 to crash when opening Viva Engage, Yammer, Power Automate, and other emails. Earlier this year, the company also provided a temporary fix for crashes affecting classic Outlook when writing, replying to, or forwarding emails and addressed a separate issue causing crashes on Windows Server systems.
| Date | Issue | Status |
|---|---|---|
| June 2025 | Classic Outlook crashes when opening emails (Version 2504) | Workaround provided |
| June 2025 | Shared mailbox folders flicker and move (Version 2505) | Under investigation |
| May 2025 | Outlook LTSC 2019 crashes with Viva Engage, Yammer, etc. | Fixed with service update |
Evergreen Insights on Outlook Stability
Microsoft Outlook, a cornerstone of business communication, has faced its share of stability challenges over the years. These issues frequently enough stem from software conflicts, compatibility problems, or bugs introduced during updates. Microsoft continuously works to address these problems through updates and patches,but users can also take proactive steps to minimize disruptions. Regularly updating Outlook, ensuring compatibility with other software, and utilizing Microsoft’s support resources can definitely help maintain a stable Outlook experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Outlook Crashes
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Why is my classic Outlook crashing when opening emails?
The classic Outlook email client may crash due to its inability to open the Forms Library,particularly affecting users in the Monthly Enterprise Channel who updated Outlook for Microsoft 365 earlier this month,starting with Version 2504 (Build 18730.20122).
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What is the temporary workaround for the Outlook crash issue?
As a temporary fix, Microsoft advises users to manually create the missing FORMS2 folder at C:UsersAppDataLocalMicrosoftFORMS2. This involves closing Outlook, selecting Start > Run, entering the path %localappdata%Microsoft, and creating a new folder named FORMS2 in the File Explorer.
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Which Outlook versions are affected by these crashes?
The crashes primarily affect users on the monthly Enterprise Channel who updated to Version 2504 (Build 18730.20122) of Outlook for Microsoft 365. Other recent issues have impacted Outlook LTSC 2019 as well.
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Are there other known issues with Outlook currently being investigated?
Yes, Microsoft is also investigating an issue causing shared mailbox folders to flicker and move around when moving items, starting with version 2505 (Build 18827.20128). A workaround involves disabling Download Shared Folders, though this may impact performance.
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Has Microsoft addressed similar Outlook issues in the past?
