Fix Microsoft Outlook Error 0xc0000005
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Written By
Pradeep Kumar -
Approved By
Shivam Rathore -
Updated on
May 15th, 2026 - Read Time
6 minutes
User Query: Whenever I open Microsoft Outlook, it crashes automatically and shows error code 0xc0000005. Sometimes Outlook closes immediately after startup, and I cannot access my emails. I tried restarting my system, but the issue is still there. How can I fix MS Outlook Not Opening Error 0xc0000005 without losing my important data?
Introduction: Microsoft Outlook is one of the most widely used email applications for business and personal communication. However, many users suddenly face Outlook Error Code 0xc0000005 when opening the application. In most cases, Outlook crashes instantly, freezes during startup, or refuses to launch properly. This error is commonly known as an “Access Violation Error.” It usually happens for several reasons. Many users reported this issue after Microsoft Office updates and corrupted Outlook profiles. This blog discusses the best methods to fix Microsoft Outlook Error 0xc0000005, including the DRS PST Recovery Tool, for a hassle-free recovery.
What is Outlook Error Code 0xc0000005?
Outlook Error 0xc0000005 is a common startup crash issue that occurs when Microsoft Outlook fails to open properly. In this situation, Outlook may suddenly close, freeze, become unresponsive, or display an exception error message. This error usually indicates that Outlook is trying to access restricted, damaged, or corrupted memory locations in Windows. Common error messages include:
- Outlook crashes immediately after opening.
- Exception code: 0xc0000005.
- Outlook.EXE Application Error.
- Microsoft Outlook stopped working.
- Access Violation Error in Outlook.
Main Causes of Outlook Error 0xc0000005
- Faulty Microsoft Office Update.
- Corrupted PST File.
- Incompatible Outlook Add-ins.
- Damaged Outlook Profile.
- Windows System File Corruption.
- Antivirus or Security Conflict.
- Also, faulty RAM or Hard Drive problems.
How to Manually Fix Microsoft Outlook Error 0xc0000005
Fortunately, there are several simple methods available to fix this issue. Below are the best working solutions that helped many Outlook users resolve the error successfully.
Method 01: Start Outlook in Safe Mode
Opening Outlook in Safe Mode is one of the easiest ways to identify whether the problem is caused by add-ins or corrupted settings. Safe Mode launches Outlook with limited features and disables third-party extensions automatically.
- Press the Windows + R keys together.
- Type the following command: Outlook.exe /safe
- Press Enter.
- Click Yes if a Safe Mode confirmation window appears.
Method 02: Disable Faulty Outlook Add-ins to Fix the Exception Error Code 0xc0000005
Sometimes incompatible COM add-ins force Outlook to crash during startup. Disabling unnecessary add-ins can fix the problem quickly.
- Open Outlook in Safe Mode.
- Go to File > Options > Add-ins.
- Select COM Add-ins and click Go.
- Uncheck all unnecessary add-ins. Click OK.
- Restart Outlook normally.
Method 03: Roll Back the Recent Outlook Update
Microsoft confirmed that some Outlook and Microsoft 365 updates caused Outlook to crash with exception code 0xc0000005. Rolling back to a previous Office version fixed the issue for many users.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Enter the following command: cd “\Program Files\Common Files\microsoft shared\ClickToRun”
- Press Enter.
- Now type: officec2rclient.exe /update user updatetoversion=16.0.12827.20470
- Press Enter again.
- Wait for Microsoft Office to download the older version. Restart Outlook.
Best Method to Fix Microsoft Outlook Error 0xc0000005
If your Outlook data file is severely corrupted, you can use the reliable DRS Outlook PST Recovery Tool. It helps to recover and access your important data without any data loss. Offer several Recovery Modes, such as Standard, Advanced, and Deep, for fast, 100% accurate recovery. Also preserves the original email formatting, structure, and metadata throughout the process. No file size limitations. No need to install Microsoft Outlook. Simple interface, which means every user can easily use it. This tool also helps with Microsoft Outlook Keeps Crashing recovery.
Simple Steps to Fix Outlook Error 0xc0000005
- Download and install the DRS Outlook PST Repair Tool.
- Click on Open to add your corrupted/damaged PST files.
- Choose Recovery Modes and other options. Click OK.
- Preview all the recovered PST files before saving.
- Lastly, click Save and choose the Saving Formats.
Real-Life Scenario: Fix Error 0xC0000005 in Microsoft Outlook
A small marketing company in the USA was using Microsoft Outlook to manage daily client communication and project updates. One day, several employees started facing Outlook Error Code 0xc0000005 after a Microsoft Office update. Outlook kept crashing during startup, and the team could not access important client emails and attachments.
The company first tried manual fixes like Safe Mode and Office Repair, but the issue continued because some PST files had become corrupted. To avoid losing business data, the IT team used the DRS Softech Outlook PST Recovery Tool. The software quickly repairs corrupt PST files without ScanPST and restores all emails, contacts, and folders without changing the original data structure.
Conclusion
This error is a common issue that can stop users from accessing important emails and mailbox data. The error usually appears because of corrupted PST files, faulty Office updates, damaged Outlook profiles, or problematic add-ins. In many cases, simple methods can fix Microsoft Outlook Error 0xc0000005. However, if the Outlook PST file becomes severely corrupted, manual methods may not work properly. In such situations, the DRS Softech Outlook PST Recovery Tool helps recover damaged Outlook data safely without changing the original mailbox structure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Outlook Error 0xC0000005 is an Access Violation Error that causes Microsoft Outlook to crash, freeze, or stop opening properly. It usually occurs due to corrupted PST files, faulty Office updates, damaged Outlook profiles, or incompatible add-ins.
You can fix Outlook Error 0xc0000005 by starting Outlook in Safe Mode, disabling faulty add-ins, repairing Microsoft Office, or rolling back recent updates. If the PST file is corrupted, the DRS Outlook PST Recovery Tool helps repair and recover Outlook data safely.
Yes, in most cases, users can fix Outlook Error 0xc0000005 without reinstalling Outlook by repairing PST files, disabling add-ins, or repairing Microsoft Office.
Yes, the DRS Softech Support Team provides 24/7 technical support for Outlook recovery and software-related queries.
Enterprises often face Outlook Error 0xc0000005 because of large PST files, frequent Microsoft Office updates, damaged Outlook profiles, incompatible add-ins, or corrupted mailbox data. High email traffic and network synchronization issues can also trigger Outlook crashes in enterprise environments.
Yes, in some cases, Outlook Error 0xc0000005 may affect access to email attachments if the PST file becomes corrupted. Using the DRS Outlook PST Recovery Tool helps recover emails, attachments, contacts, and other mailbox items without changing the original data structure.
About The Author:
Pradeep is an expert with over 2 years of experience in email migration, email recovery, and file conversion. He has a passion for helping users by sharing easy-to-understand solutions for common technical challenges across different platforms. Known for breaking down complex tech topics into simple, enjoyable content, Pradeep's work has earned recognition in several well-known tech blogs. His straightforward approach and reliable guidance have made him a trusted source for both tech enthusiasts and beginners looking to resolve their technical issues.
