Outlook will not close

[Linda in Wyo]

Cannot close Outlook program either by using 'Exit' under the File or simply
clicking on close button in the upper right-hand corner

 

[K. Orland]

There can be several reasons Outlook doesn't close (Add Ins, synch software
for a handheld, fax software, etc.). Please read here to see if any apply to
you and how to rectify:

http://www.howto-outlook.com/faq/outlookdoesntclose.htm

Good luck! Please post back and let me know how you made out.

 

[Brian Tillman]

Cannot close Outlook program either by using 'Exit' under the File or
simply clicking on close button in the upper right-hand corner

What DOES happen? What version of Outlook?

 

[Linda in Wyo]

I am running OUtlook 2003 SP2. Interestingly, after about an hour it allowed
me to close the program. Coincidentially, on one attempt to close it, I
receiveed a Microsoft error that told me one of the problems was that I
needed to update my files with SP3. While researching the pros and cons of
installing SP3, Outlook begain to function again.

Have you installed SP3? If so, what do you think? I read the description
and it seems as though there are more problems than benefits. Would
appreciate your opinion.

Linda

 

[Linda in Wyo]

I am running Outlook 2003 SP2, do not have any hand-held devices or add ins
(to my knowledge). This problem started this morning. Coincidentially when
trying to close it, I did eventually receive a Microsoft error saying the
problem had to be closed (but it did not close the program). When I checked
what the error was and Microsoft's recommendation to 'fix' the problem, I was
told to download SP3. While I was researching SP#, Outlook was able to close
(I checked).

By the way, what is your opinion of the SP#? I was uncomfortable with all
of the identified problems and did not get a feel that the benefits
outweighed the dozen needed fixes for the problems.

Since you are a MVP Outlook, could you please also tell me - does Microsoft
automatically stall or disable a function to get one to look at the needed
updates? I have my system set up to automatically update my computer - by to
notify me first. Is this the method of notification - stopping all progress?
This has happened to me more than once - working in a program, receiving an
error notice, and then having to stop everything to download an update before
I can proceed.

I lost two hours this morning with this Outlook program and cannot believe
that Microsoft would orchestrate the need for updates by essentially
disabling ones computer. Could be my imagination or just coincidence.

Thanks in advance for responding.

Linda

 

[Brian Tillman]

Have you installed SP3? If so, what do you think? I read the
description and it seems as though there are more problems than
benefits. Would appreciate your opinion.

I haven't installed it yet. At home, I use Office 2007. At work, I use
Office 2003, but the company blocks access to Microsoft Update.

There have been people who have encountered problems with it, like
autocorrection problems in Word. It's up to you.

 

[Linda in Wyo]

I probablly should have followed the link you provided before my first reply.

Anyway, did not know about Add-ins, so followed the link and did find them.
One is related to my anti-virus software which, interestingly enough had just
downloaded updates prior to my trying to iclose Outlook. There must have
been an issue with one of the updates since this had never happened to me
before and I have used this anti-virus software for several months with no
problem. Very helpful advice.

I am still interested in your response to the SP3 update issue.

Thanks....

 

[Linda in Wyo]

Thanks for responding, Brian.

I have not installed SP3 because I was a bit spooked by the known problems,
and frankly cannot afford the time right now to spend on computer-related
problems, especially since I am not a computer guru. As is, this Outlook
issue today has take a couple of hours.

Another MVP Outlook member contacted me and suggested a way to check
Add-ins. I think I identified the problem, as my anti-virus software has an
Add-in and interestingly enough I do remember that my antivirus software had
just installed the daily updates a few minutes prior to my trying to close
Outlook. Must have been an hang-up with one of the updates since I have not
had any problems with it prior to today.

Thanks so much for trying to help. If the problem continues, you will hear
from me again.

Linda