If you spend a lot of time using email for business and personal use, then you know what a productivity zapper a freeze in Microsoft Outlook can be. Although the reasons for the freeze can be varied and may not have anything to do with Outlook at all, the problem needs to be resolved as quickly as possible. Fortunately, you can take several steps to correct the problem.
Step 1
Right-click the Outlook icon on the taskbar at the bottom of your screen. It is an orange square with a clock inside. It will read something to the effect of "Inbox – Microsoft Outlook." Select "Close." A window will pop up. Select "End Now." You may have to wait a minute or two before it actually closes down. If this does not work, move on to Step 2.
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Step 2
Press the "Ctrl," "Alt" and "Delete" buttons on your keyboard simultaneously. Select "Task Manager" from the window that pops up. On the next screen, highlight "Microsoft Outlook," then select "End Program." Confirm your choice on the next screen. If this does not work, continue to Step 3.
Step 3
Click "Start," then choose to restart or shut down your computer. When the shut down procedure begins, it will close out all programs, frozen or not. If the problem persists, move on to Step 4.
Step 4
Press and hold the power switch on your computer for 5 seconds. The computer will shut down instantly. When you reboot the computer, Outlook will be closed. If the program continually freezes, move on to Step 5.
Step 5
Uninstall Outlook by using the "Program Manager" located in the "Control Panel." Reinstall the program completely using the original discs. If the program came preinstalled on your computer, there should be a system disc that contains the program. If not, contact your computer's manufacturer.
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