How to Fix Outlook Attachment Not Opening on Double Click?

Now, let’s understand what the reasons may be for the Outlook attachment not opening on double click.

Why Outlook not Opening Attachments when Double-click?

There can be several reasons why Outlook attachments do not open on double click. Knowing the exact reason will help you apply the right method and avoid unnecessary things.

1. Damaged Outlook PST File: Outlook stores your emails, contacts and attachments in the PST file. And if your data file is damaged or corrupted, Outlook may not be able to open the attached files correctly.

2. Outlook Secure Temporary Folder is Full: Outlook saves attachments in a hidden secure folder before it opens it. If this folder becomes full, Outlook may stop opening attachments when you try to open it.

3. Antivirus Software: As a security measure, some antivirus apps scan email attachments. Sometimes they may mistakenly block safe and secure attachments due to which you can’t open them.

4. Outlook add ons: Sometimes third-party Outlook plug-ins can conflict with Outlook’s normal functionality. Issues with an add-in can cause attachments to not open correctly.

5. Previous Version of the Outlook Application: Older versions of Outlook can also cause compatibility issues. These problems can interfere with opening attachments and prevent the file from opening.

6. Wrong File Association Settings: File associations in Windows guide which application will open a particular file type. Incorrect settings in Outlook may prevent it from opening attachments.

7. Corrupted Attachments: If the email and the Outlook application are working fine, the possibility is that the attachment itself is corrupted or incomplete which Outlook cannot open.

Ways to Fix Outlook Attachments Not Opening When Double Click

This guide covers 5 proven solutions:

1. Clear Outlook Secure Temp Folder.
2. Check antivirus settings.
3. Update Outlook to the latest version.
4. Disable problematic Outlook add-ins.
5. Repair corrupted PST files.

Now, let’s understand these methods in more detail;

Method 1. Remove Outlook Secure Temporary Folder

Outlook attachments not opening is one of the most common Outlook issues. One reason is that the Outlook Secure Temporary Folder is full.

Follow these steps:

1. First of all, Close the Outlook App completely.

2. Press Windows + R , type regedit.exe and hit Enter.

3. Open the registry key for Outlook Secure Temp Folder.

4. Find the value named OutlookSecureTempFolder.

5. Copy the folder path displayed in the Data field.

Open File Explorer and paste in the path.

6. Delete all of the files in that folder.

7. Close Outlook and re-open.Try to open the attachment again.

Always backup the Windows Registry before making any changes to them.

Method 2. Check the Antivirus Settings

Some antivirus apps block Outlook attachments to protect users from malicious files.

What to do then? follow these steps;

1. Disable your antivirus software temporarily.
2. Then, Open Outlook app on your computer.
3. Try to open the attachment.
4. If the attachment opens, add Outlook or the file type to the antivirus exception list.
5. Turn the antivirus protection back on.

Method 3. Upgrade to the Latest Version of Microsoft Outlook

Older version of Outlook may create attachment issues.

Steps to Update Outlook;

1. Launch Outlook app and then go to the File tab.

2. Choose Office Account and select Update Options.

3. Then, click on Update Now.

4. Install available updates for Outlook.

5. Reopen Outlook and try to open the attachments again.

Method 4. Disable Outlook Add-ins

Third-party add ons may interfere with the default attachment handling process from Outlook.

Steps to Turn off Add-ins;

1. Start Outlook app and click on File >> Options >> Add-ins.
2. Choose COM Add-ins and click Go.
3. Uncheck all add-in and tap the OK button.
4. Then, restart your Outlook app.

Now, try to open the attachment again.

Method 5. Repair Corrupted or Damaged PST File

If your Outlook PST file is corrupted then Outlook will not able to access the emails and attachments properly.

Repair your PST file if you see the following signs;

• Attachments can’t be opened.
• Could not load emails.
• Outlook crashes a lot.
• Missing emails.

Try the Microsoft Inbox Repair Tool (SCANPST.EXE). But if the corruption is severe, you may need a professional PST repair solution.

Note: The software supports Outlook 2024, 2021, 2019, 2016, 2013, and earlier versions.

Watch the Tutorial to Fix the ” Unable to Open Outlook Attachment Issue

Final Words

In conclusion, the Outlook not opening attachments on double click issue is generally due to Outlook various reasons that we discussed in this article. So, it’s important to understand the reasons first so that you can choose an appropriate method to fix it. Most of the time, the problem is fixed by deleting the temporary files, updating Outlook or disabling add-ins. If the PST corruption is causing the problem then repair your PST file first and get back access to your Outlook attachments.