If you’re no longer able to launch Microsoft Outlook starting a few days ago, then you’re really not alone. As it turns out, one of the recent updates shipped by Microsoft is causing more headaches for Outlook users, generating an error that is pretty difficult to get rid of.

More specifically, if you update to version 2005 build 12827.20268 in Outlook and then try to launch the app, you could end up getting the following error:

"Something is wrong with one of your data files and Outlook needs to close. Outlook might be able to fix your file. Click OK to run the Inbox Repair Tool."

Needless to say, if you click OK to launch the Inbox Repair Tool, you end up getting the same error, so technically, you’re stuck in an infinite loop that doesn’t let you launch the email app.
Workaround available

So what’s causing the problem? Microsoft isn’t sure, as explained in this tech support document.

“An initial client fix is available in Insider Beta version 13004.10000. The Outlook Team is investigating this issue with the Windows Team. We are not sure yet if the primary fix will come from Outlook or Windows. When we have more information on fix details we will add them here,” the company says.

Woody Leonhard of CW says the latest cumulative updates are to blame and adds that the PST file is fine, with no damage whatsoever.

Microsoft has also published a workaround on the page linked above, and the company recommends users to configure Outlook to ignore the check for the PST file when launching the app. It’s all possible with a registry edit, although it goes without saying this isn’t necessarily the most convenient thing to do for everyone.

As to when a fix could land for all users, this is something that nobody knows for sure when it’s supposed to happen.