Fix for Missing or Non-Functional Outlook Add-Ins

Step 1: Modify the Outlook Registry

Sometimes Outlook automatically disables an add-in if it crashes repeatedly. To reinstate it, follow these instructions:

1. Open the Run dialog by pressing Win + R.
2. Type regedit and hit Enter to launch the Registry Editor.
3. Navigate to the following path: Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Office\0\Outlook\Addins
4. Locate the add-in name in the Addins directory and copy it.
5. Now go to: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\0\Outlook\Resiliency\AddinList
6. In the right tab, right-click and select New > String Value.
7. Name the new string value according to the add-in you copied earlier.
8. Double-click the string to modify its value and set it to 1.
9. Click OK to save the changes.

Pro Tip: After modifying the Registry, restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

Step 2: Manually Enable Disabled Add-Ins

You can activate disabled add-ins through Outlook’s settings:

1. In Outlook, click on the File tab.
2. Select Options from the menu.
3. In the left pane, click on Add-ins.
4. To view disabled add-ins, set the ‘Manage:’ dropdown to Disabled Items and click Go.
5. Select the add-ins you wish to enable and click Enable.

Step 3: Activate the Connected Experiences Feature

The Connected Experience feature allows add-ins from third-party sources. Here’s how to enable it:

1. Open the File tab in Outlook.
2. Go to Options.
3. Click on the General tab, then navigate to Privacy Settings.
4. Ensure the Enable optional connected experiences option is checked.
5. Verify the Get Add-ins option is also enabled.
6. Click OK to apply the changes.

Pro Tip: It’s wise to reopen Outlook to ensure that the settings take effect.

Step 4: Revoke Group Policy Restrictions

If your organization’s IT policy restricts add-ins, you need to ask for permission. Follow these steps to check policies:

1. Open the Run dialog and type gpedit.msc. Press OK.
2. Navigate to: User Configuration > Policies > Administrative Templates > Microsoft Office
3. Locate the List of managed add-ins policy and edit it to Enabled.
4. Show options to specify which add-ins to allow by adding their ProgID.

Pro Tip: Consult your IT administrator to acquire the necessary ProgID from the relevant Registry paths.

Step 5: Permit Third-Party Add-Ins in Outlook

Ensure you have permission to use third-party add-ins by checking the following settings:

1. Log into Office 365 and access the Admin Center.
2. Open the Settings tab and navigate to Services & add-ins.
3. In User owned Apps and Services, enable: Let people in your organization go to the Office Store, Let users install trial apps and services.
4. Click Save changes.

What are Outlook add-ins and why are they important?

What should I do if my add-ins are still not working after these fixes?