6 Tips to Resolve Outlook Error 0x80040201

Amy Dennis

Dec 16, 2024 • Filed to: Recover Emails • Proven solutions

Microsoft Outlook is used daily to send all formats of emails and messages. In the same vein, this program is susceptible to errors. Error 0x80040201 is a type of error you can face as a user of Outlook. In this article, you will learn why you are facing this error and what tips to use in resolving the error. As a final tip, the professional PST repair tool, Stellar Outlook Repair, will be introduced to you. Also, you will be guided on the steps to use in repairing Outlook PST files that have been damaged by error 0x80040201.

What Causes the Outlook Error 0x80040201?

Outlook error 0x80040201 is caused by certain factors: they include the following:

• Corrupt Outlook Profile: Outlook may generate error 0x80040201 if your Outlook profile is corrupted. A corrupt Outlook profile can occur from virus or malware infestation
• Corrupt Cached Contacts or NK2 File: An NK2 file contains your nickname as an Outlook user, one that is created by you and assigned to an email address. If there is any corruption within the contacts in your cache folder or NK2 file, then there is every likelihood that you will encounter this error.
• Interrupted Network Connection: If your network or internet connection gets disrupted and is inactive, it may generate error 0x80040201 when you are trying to send or receive emails.

6 Tips to Resolve Outlook Error 0x80040201

To the crux of the matter, below are the top six tips and measures on how to resolve Outlook error 0x80040201. The great thing is that this error can be fixed, just pick any of the tips.

Tip 1: Delete the Cached Outlook Contacts or Delete NK2 File

Outlook stores information and messages for easy accessibility as cache or NK2 in older versions. Delete corrupt cached Outlook email contacts or NK2 file by using these simple steps:

• First, trace the path to locate cached contacts. To do this, open your Windows Explorer and type in the following in the address tab: %APPDATA%\Microsoft\Outlook

• Locate your NK2 file in this location and simply delete it.

Tip 2: Run Outlook in Safe Mode

You can run Outlook in "Safe Mode". This implies that it doesn't require any toolbar customizations, customized settings, add-ins, or preview pane to start. Through this method, you can figure out if the error is from a third-party source or not. If you can start Outlook in safe mode, then you know that the issue is from an external program. Uninstall the apps individually to find out the particular app responsible for the error in the first place.

To start Outlook in safe mode, let these steps guide you:

• Open the "Run" function by pressing a combination of "Win" and "R" keys on the keyboard. As an alternative, go to the search box of your Windows and type "Run", then press the "Enter" key

• Type the words: outlook.exe /safe. Click "OK"

• A window labeled "Choose Profile" will appear; select the default option for Outlook.
• To open the profile, click "OK". Outlook will now start in safe mode.

Tip 3: Emptying Autocomplete List

Since the items in the autocomplete list could be corrupted and cause this error, you are advised to empty the list by following the steps below:

• Launch Outlook in versions 2016, 2013, and 2010; then click "File" button
• Choose "Options" and the "Mail" button
• Go to "Send Messages" and under it, choose the option "Empty Auto-Complete List"

• Choose "Yes" or "OK' to affirm the action

Tip 4: Create a New Outlook Profile

Create a new Outlook profile altogether. This you can do by following the steps outlined below:

• Open Outlook and click on "File"
• Go to "Account Settings"

• Tap on "Manage Profiles"

• Next, select "Show Profiles"

• Click to "Add". Next, there is a box you will see for "Profile Name". Input the name of your new profile and select "OK" to continue

• A wizard will pop up, requiring the full email address and password of the new account. After a few seconds of synchronizing the details you have provided from the server, a connection is created. Just choose "Finish" to bring the configuration of your new account to a close.
• Mark the option "Always use this profile" before scrolling down the menu to select the profile you just created. Then choose "OK"

Tip 5: Disable Third-party Antivirus

When MS Office Outlook requests to send you an email, it may be prevented by the third-party antivirus installed on your system. This may generate the error code 0x80040201. Thus, disable your antivirus program to check is it's the reason you have this error. There are several antiviruses online but an example will be made with Avast antivirus program and how to disable it:

• On your system tray, right-click on the icon representing Avast

• Click the "Avast, shields control" option. You will be given options on how long you want to disable Avast. Take your pick.

Tip 6: Repair PST File with Stellar Outlook Repair

To attack the error itself, you may need the services of an expert tool, especially when all else has failed. Stellar Outlook Repair is an expert tool you can use to fix the Outlook error 0x80040201 by repairing the damage in the PST folder itself. This tool is versatile in its utility as it works in different MS Outlook versions like older versions than Outlook 2007, and newer versions from 2007, 2010, 2013, and downward.

It is precise and effective, which is why it is popular among users as a repair utility. The size of the PST folder does not limit the tool from carrying out effective repairs. With Stellar Outlook Repair, you can fix data in many different forms and formats like data in emails, from encrypted and deleted contacts, journals, calendars, attachments, tasks, among others. Even if you just created a new Outlook profile or you have been using an old one, the files within it can be fixed with Stellar Outlook Repair.

Now, move on to repairing your PST file with this tool using the steps below:

Step 1: Add Corrupt File

The home interface has a window labeled "Select PST File for Repair". Here, you are required to add the PST file you need to repair with the use of "Browse" or "Find" options.

Step 2: Repair File

Locate the "Repair" option at the bottom right of the screen and click on it. This commands Stellar Outlook Repair to begin scanning and fixing the PST file you have selected.

Step 3: Preview and Save Repaired PST

The preview window is the next to appear after the tool has fixed your corrupted file (s). On the left pane, a list of the repaired files is displayed. Meanwhile, the contents of the files are displayed in the middle pane and the details can be found on the right pane.

Now go to the "Home" section on the menu bar and under it, select "Save Repaired File" to indicate that you are satisfied with the repair process and therefore wish to save the PST files.

The Bottom Line

The great thing about experiencing this Outlook error 0x80040201 is that it can be easily fixed with the right tips and methods. This is what the article has provided for you and you cannot deny that is a fact!