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The Windows 11 Mail app is a convenient way to manage your emails in one place. However, sometimes it may stop working properly, causing frustration. If you find that your Mail app isn’t opening, syncing, or sending emails, don’t worry. There are simple steps you can follow to get it back on track.

This guide will walk you through easy and clear solutions to fix common problems with the Windows 11 Mail app. Each step is explained in detail to help even beginners understand what to do.

By following these instructions carefully, you can save time and avoid unnecessary technical confusion. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the troubleshooting.

Keep in mind that some fixes may take a few minutes, but they are usually effective in restoring your Mail app’s functionality.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

Before trying complex solutions, make sure you have done the following:

• Check your internet connection. A stable internet connection is essential for the Mail app to sync and send emails.
• Ensure your Windows 11 is up to date. Sometimes, app problems occur due to outdated system files.
• Verify your email account password. Incorrect passwords can prevent the app from connecting to your email server.
• Restart your computer. This simple step can fix minor glitches affecting the Mail app.

Once you have confirmed these basics, move on to the following detailed solutions.

Step 1: Check Mail App Permissions

The Mail app requires certain permissions to work correctly. If these are disabled, the app may not function as expected.

1. Click on the Start button and select Settings.
2. Go to Privacy & security on the left menu.
3. Scroll down and find Email under the App permissions section.
4. Make sure the toggle for the Mail app is turned on, allowing it to access your email.

Allowing permissions ensures the app can communicate with your email servers and sync your messages.

Step 2: Reset the Mail App

If the Mail app is still not working, resetting it can solve many issues by restoring default settings without deleting your email accounts.

1. Open Settings and select Apps.
2. Click on Installed apps or Apps & features.
3. Scroll to find the Mail and Calendar app.
4. Click the three-dot menu next to it and select Advanced options.
5. Scroll down and click the Reset button.
6. Confirm the reset when prompted.

Resetting the app clears corrupted data or settings that may be causing errors.

Step 3: Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter

Since the Mail app is a Microsoft Store app, running the built-in troubleshooter can detect and fix issues automatically.

1. Open Settings and go to System > Troubleshoot.
2. Select Other troubleshooters.
3. Find Windows Store Apps and click Run beside it.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

This tool scans for common problems with Store apps and applies fixes without manual input.

Step 4: Update the Mail App from Microsoft Store

Outdated versions of the Mail app can cause performance issues. Keeping it updated ensures you have the latest bug fixes and features.

1. Open the Microsoft Store from the Start menu.
2. Click on the Library icon at the bottom left.
3. Click Get updates to check for app updates.
4. If an update for Mail and Calendar is available, click Update.

Updating the app keeps it compatible with Windows and your email services.

Step 5: Remove and Re-add Your Email Account

Sometimes the connection between the Mail app and your email account can break. Removing and re-adding the account can refresh this connection.

1. Open the Mail app.
2. Click the Settings gear icon at the bottom left.
3. Select Manage accounts.
4. Click on the problematic email account and select Delete account from this device.
5. After removing, click Add account and follow the prompts to add your email again.

This step ensures your account settings are updated and any potential sync issues are fixed.

Step 6: Check Date and Time Settings

Incorrect date and time settings can cause syncing problems with the Mail app. Ensuring they are accurate helps maintain secure connections.

1. Open Settings and go to Time & language.
2. Select Date & time.
3. Turn on Set time automatically and Set time zone automatically.
4. If these are already on, toggle them off and on again to refresh.

Correct time settings help verify certificates and server communications.

Alternative Method: Use the Web Version of Your Email

If the Mail app still does not work, you can access your emails using the web browser version of your email service (for example, Outlook.com, Gmail.com). This allows you to check and send emails while working on the app issue.

Using the web version is a good temporary solution until you fix the app.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is my Mail app not syncing new emails?

This is usually due to connectivity issues, incorrect account settings, or app glitches. Checking your internet connection and resetting the app often fixes syncing problems.

Can I reinstall the Mail app in Windows 11?

Yes, but the Mail app is a built-in Windows app. You need to uninstall it via PowerShell commands and then reinstall it from the Microsoft Store. This is an advanced step to try if resetting doesn’t help.

Does resetting the Mail app delete my emails?

No, resetting only clears the app’s temporary data and settings. Your emails remain stored on the email server and will sync again when you reopen the app.

How do I know if Windows 11 updates are causing Mail app problems?

If your Mail app stopped working after a Windows update, it could be related. You can check for new updates or roll back the recent update in Settings if needed.

What if my email account uses 2-step verification?

Make sure you use an app-specific password or follow your email provider’s instructions for third-party app access. Otherwise, the Mail app may fail to connect.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and the Mail app is still not working, consider these final options:

• Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support page for personalized help.
• Create a new Windows user account: Sometimes profile corruption causes app issues. Creating a new user account can isolate the problem.
• Use an alternative mail client: Apps like Mozilla Thunderbird or webmail may be a reliable substitute.
• Repair or reinstall Windows: As a last resort, repairing your Windows installation can fix deep system problems affecting apps.

Conclusion

The Windows 11 Mail app is a handy tool, but it can occasionally face issues that disrupt your email workflow. By starting with basic checks and moving through resetting, updating, and account management steps, you can fix most common problems yourself. Remember to verify permissions, keep your system updated, and use Microsoft’s troubleshooting tools to make the process easier.

If issues persist, don’t hesitate to explore advanced options or reach out to official support. With patience and the right approach, your Mail app will be back to working smoothly in no time.