If you’re using the Windows 11 Mail app and it’s showing emails as confusing HTML code instead of the normal formatted message, you’re not alone. This problem can make reading your emails frustrating and difficult.
The good news is that this issue can usually be fixed with a few simple steps. You don’t need to be a tech expert to follow along.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through easy and detailed instructions to help restore your emails to their proper view. Let’s get started.
By the end, you’ll understand why this happens and how to prevent it from happening again.
Quick Note Before You Begin
Before diving into troubleshooting, make sure your Windows 11 Mail app is updated to the latest version. Microsoft often releases fixes that solve common bugs. To check for updates, open the Microsoft Store and go to “Library” to update the Mail app.
Also, ensure your internet connection is stable as email syncing requires connectivity.
Step 1: Restart the Mail App
Sometimes, the simplest fix is restarting the app. Closing and reopening can clear temporary glitches that cause emails to display incorrectly.
- Click the Close (X) button on the Mail app window.
- Wait for a few seconds to make sure the app is fully closed.
- Open the Mail app again from the Start menu.
- Check if the emails now display normally.
Restarting refreshes the app’s internal processes and might solve minor display issues.
Step 2: Check the Email Format Settings
Emails can be sent and received in different formats: plain text, rich text, or HTML. If the app is set to show plain text only, it might display HTML code instead of formatted emails.
- Open the Mail app.
- Click on the Settings icon (gear) at the bottom left.
- Select Reading pane or Message format (depending on your app version).
- Look for an option related to message format or reading format.
- Ensure it is set to HTML or Rich Text instead of Plain Text.
This setting controls how emails are displayed. Choosing HTML allows you to see emails as intended, with images and links formatted properly.
Step 3: Clear the Mail App Cache
Corrupted cache data can cause display problems. Clearing the cache forces the app to reload fresh data from your email server.
- Press Windows + I keys to open Settings.
- Go to Apps > Apps & features.
- Find and click on the Mail and Calendar app.
- Click Advanced options.
- Scroll down and click Reset.
- Confirm by clicking Reset again.
Resetting clears app data and cache without deleting your emails since they sync from your email server.
Step 4: Remove and Re-Add Your Email Account
Sometimes the account settings may become corrupted. Removing and adding your email account again can refresh the connection and fix display issues.
- Open the Mail app.
- Click the Settings (gear) icon.
- Go to Manage accounts.
- Select the problematic email account.
- Click Delete account from this device.
- Confirm the removal.
- After removing, click Add account and follow the prompts to add your email again.
This step helps by re-establishing your email settings from scratch.
Step 5: Update Windows 11
Outdated system files can cause compatibility issues with apps. Keeping Windows up to date ensures all components work smoothly.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Click Windows Update on the left panel.
- Click Check for updates.
- If updates are available, download and install them.
- Restart your computer if prompted.
System updates often include bug fixes that improve app performance and stability.
Alternative Method: Use the Web Version of Your Email
If the Mail app continues showing HTML instead of formatted emails, try accessing your email account through its web version (for example, outlook.com for Outlook accounts). This can be a reliable workaround while you troubleshoot further.
Using the web version ensures you can read emails correctly and manage your inbox without app issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why does the Mail app show HTML code instead of the email body?
This usually happens when the app is set to display emails in plain text only or when there is a glitch in rendering HTML content. Corrupted cache or outdated app versions can also cause this problem.
Will resetting the Mail app delete my emails?
No. Your emails are stored on the email server and synced by the app. Resetting only clears the app’s temporary data and settings on your device.
Can a third-party antivirus cause this issue?
Yes. Sometimes antivirus or firewall settings interfere with how the Mail app loads content. Temporarily disabling antivirus software can help identify if it’s the cause.
What if my emails display correctly in other email clients?
If other apps or webmail show the emails properly, the issue is likely with the Windows 11 Mail app itself, and steps like updating or reinstalling the app may help.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the steps above and the Mail app still shows HTML code instead of formatted emails, consider the following final options:
- Reinstall the Mail app: Open Microsoft Store, search for the Mail app, uninstall it, then reinstall.
- Use Windows Troubleshooter: Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters and run the troubleshooter for Windows Store apps.
- Contact Microsoft Support: Visit Microsoft Support for personalized assistance.
- Switch to another email client: Consider using apps like Outlook desktop, Thunderbird, or webmail temporarily.
Conclusion
Seeing HTML code instead of nicely formatted emails in the Windows 11 Mail app can be frustrating, but it’s usually fixable with simple steps. Restarting the app, checking format settings, clearing cache, and updating both the app and Windows often resolve the issue.
Removing and re-adding your email account refreshes connection settings and can clear persistent glitches. If all else fails, using the web version or reinstalling the app are good alternatives.
Following this guide will help you enjoy your emails in their intended format, making communication smoother and hassle-free.