How to Reset or Switch the Default Email Address in Outlook When Your Default Email Address Doesn’t Work

When the default email address is disabled or inaccessible, for example the email account deactivated, server issues, password change, you may not be able to run Outlook with this error:

“Cannot start Microsoft Outlook”. Here’s a resolution using the Mail (Control Panel) option:

Here’s a clear step-by-step guide for troubleshooting and switching the default email address in Outlook:

---

How to Resolve Issues When Outlook Won’t Start and Switch to Another Default Email Address

1. Possible Reasons Outlook Can’t Start:
   • The default email address is disabled or inaccessible (e.g., account deactivated, server issues, password change).
   • Corrupted profile or data files (.pst or .ost) linked to the disabled email.
   • Add-ins or navigation pane settings causing the startup error.
2. Switch to Another Default Email Address Using Control Panel:
   • Open Control Panel by searching for it in the Windows Start menu.
   • Click on Mail (Microsoft Outlook) or Mail (32-bit).
   • Select Show Profiles.
3. Create a New Profile:
   • Under Show Profiles, click Add to create a new profile.
   • Set up a working email account in the new profile using the on-screen prompts.
   • Test the new profile to ensure functionality.
4. Set the New Profile as Default:
   • In the Mail (Control Panel) window, choose the newly created profile.
   • Check Always use this profile and click OK.
5. Remove the Problematic Account (Optional):
   • If the disabled account continues to cause issues, return to Show Profiles, select the old profile, and click Remove.