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How to Fix Mail App Not Working on Windows 8.1: Step-by-Step Solutions

If your Mail app on Windows 8.1 has stopped working, it can be frustrating when you rely on it for daily communication. Fortunately, there are simple ways to fix common issues without needing advanced technical skills.

This guide will walk you through easy, step-by-step solutions to get your Mail app running smoothly again. Even if you are new to Windows, the instructions are clear and straightforward.

By following these steps carefully, you can quickly identify and resolve the problem causing the Mail app to malfunction. Let’s start with a few quick checks before diving into the fixes.

Take your time with each step and test the app as you go along to see if the issue is resolved.

Quick Note Before You Begin

  • Make sure your Windows 8.1 system is connected to the internet. The Mail app needs internet access to send and receive emails.
  • Check that your Mail app is up to date. Updates often fix bugs and improve performance.
  • Verify your email account credentials (username and password) are correct. Incorrect login details can cause syncing problems.
  • Close the Mail app completely before starting troubleshooting. Sometimes, simply restarting the app can fix minor glitches.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Restarting your PC may sound simple, but it often fixes many temporary software glitches. When you restart, Windows clears memory and shuts down background processes that might interfere with the Mail app.

  1. Click the Start button on your desktop.
  2. Select the Power icon.
  3. Choose Restart and wait for your PC to reboot.
  4. Open the Mail app again and check if it works.

If the Mail app still doesn’t work, proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter

Windows 8.1 has a built-in troubleshooter that can detect and fix problems with apps downloaded from the Windows Store, including the Mail app.

  1. Press Windows + W keys to open the Search charm.
  2. Type troubleshooting and select the Troubleshooting option from the results.
  3. Under the System and Security section, click Run maintenance tasks.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooter.
  5. Restart your computer if prompted.
  6. Check the Mail app again.

This tool helps identify common app-related issues and can repair them automatically.

Step 3: Reset the Mail App

If the app is corrupted or some settings are causing the problem, resetting the Mail app will restore it to its default state without affecting your emails stored on the mail server.

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings charm.
  2. Click on Change PC settings at the bottom.
  3. Go to Search and apps, then select App sizes or Apps & features (depending on your system).
  4. Find the Mail app in the list.
  5. Click on it and select Advanced options.
  6. Click the Reset button and confirm.
  7. After resetting, open the Mail app and set up your email account again.

Resetting helps clear problematic app data without needing to reinstall.

Step 4: Check Your Email Account Settings

Incorrect account settings will prevent the Mail app from syncing your emails properly.

  1. Open the Mail app.
  2. Swipe from the right edge or move your mouse to the top-right corner to open the Charms bar, then select Settings.
  3. Choose Accounts.
  4. Select your email account from the list.
  5. Check the account information like email address, password, and server settings.
  6. If you recently changed your email password, update it here.
  7. Save any changes and try syncing again.

Using the correct settings ensures the Mail app can connect to your email provider without errors.

Step 5: Update Windows 8.1 and the Mail App

Sometimes the Mail app stops working due to outdated software. Installing the latest updates can fix bugs and improve compatibility.

  1. Press Windows + W to open Search and type Windows Update.
  2. Select Windows Update from the results.
  3. Click Check for updates.
  4. Install any available updates, especially those related to Windows Store apps or the Mail app.
  5. Restart your PC if required.
  6. Open the Mail app to see if the issue is fixed.

Keeping your system updated is important for security and app functionality.

Alternative Method: Reinstall the Mail App Using PowerShell

If resetting didn’t help, you can try reinstalling the Mail app. This is a bit more advanced but still manageable.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin).
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
Get-AppxPackage *windowscommunicationsapps* | Remove-AppxPackage
  1. Wait for the uninstall to complete.
  2. To reinstall, open the Windows Store app, search for Mail and Calendar, and install it again.
  3. After installation, open the Mail app and set up your accounts.

Reinstalling replaces any damaged files and often fixes persistent issues.

FAQs

Why won’t my Mail app sync new emails?

Common reasons include incorrect account settings, internet connectivity problems, or issues with the mail server. Double-check your settings and ensure you have an active internet connection.

Can I use the Mail app without an internet connection?

The Mail app requires an internet connection to send and receive emails. You can view previously downloaded emails offline, but syncing requires online access.

Will resetting the Mail app delete my emails?

No, resetting the app only removes local app data and settings. Your emails remain stored on your email provider’s server and will be downloaded again when you set up the account.

How do I update the Mail app on Windows 8.1?

Updates for the Mail app come through the Windows Store. Open the Store app, go to Downloads and Updates, and install any available updates.

Is it safe to reinstall the Mail app using PowerShell?

Yes, as long as you follow the steps carefully, it is safe. This method removes and reinstalls the official Mail app provided by Microsoft.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and the Mail app still does not work, consider the following options:

  • Use an alternative email client, such as Microsoft Outlook or a web-based email service, until the issue is resolved.
  • Visit the official Microsoft support page for Windows 8.1 Mail app issues: Microsoft Mail App Support.
  • Consider upgrading to a newer version of Windows if possible, as Windows 8.1 is no longer supported with mainstream updates.

Conclusion

Fixing the Mail app on Windows 8.1 is usually straightforward by following these step-by-step solutions. Starting with simple restarts and troubleshooting tools often solves the problem without hassle.

Resetting or reinstalling the app can fix deeper issues, and keeping your system updated helps prevent future problems. Remember to verify your account settings carefully, as incorrect details are a common cause of syncing failures.

If all else fails, Microsoft’s support resources and alternative email clients provide reliable options to continue managing your emails effectively. With patience and these clear instructions, you should be able to restore your Mail app functionality quickly.

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