how to fix the following error in a folder on Outlook Today: Cannot display the folder. Microsoft Outlook cannot access the specified folder location.

Edna Hall 0 Reputation points
2025-12-11T14:47:31.03+00:00

I use Outlook Today and have my folders listed. I updated names in folder list and when I updated the Outlook Today to reflect the new names, most of the folders were fine to access the mail items. There has been a couple though that I get the following error. I can access the email by going to the folder list.

Cannot display the folder. Microsoft Outlook cannot access the specified folder location.
Cannot display the folder. Microsoft Outlook cannot access the specified folder location.
Outlook | Windows | New Outlook for Windows | For business
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  1. Q&A Assist
    2025-12-11T14:48:46.48+00:00
    AI generated content. This question contains an answer created with AI from Q&A Assist. Learn more

    The error message "Cannot display the folder. Microsoft Outlook cannot access the specified folder location" can occur for several reasons. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially resolve this issue:

    1. Check Folder Permissions: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to access the folder. If the folder is shared or belongs to another user, you may need to request access.
    2. Restart Outlook: Sometimes, simply restarting Outlook can resolve temporary glitches.
    3. Repair Outlook Data File: If the folder is part of a PST file, you may need to repair the file using the Inbox Repair Tool (scanpst.exe). This tool can fix issues with the data file that may be causing the error.
    4. Clear the Cache: If you are using Cached Exchange Mode, try clearing the cache for the affected folder. You can do this by removing the folder from the cache and then re-adding it.
    5. Check for Add-ins: Disable any add-ins that might be interfering with Outlook's functionality. You can do this by going to File > Options > Add-ins, and then managing COM Add-ins.
    6. Update Outlook: Make sure your Outlook is up to date. Sometimes, updates can fix bugs that may be causing issues with folder access.

    If you can access the email by going to the folder list, it indicates that the folder itself is not corrupted, but the issue may be specific to the Outlook Today view.


    References:

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  2. Ryan-N 8,400 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2025-12-11T16:19:51.37+00:00

    Hi @Edna Hall,

    Welcome to the Microsoft Q&A forum.

    Thank you for reaching out to us. I would like to provide you with the following information and troubleshooting steps:

    I noticed that you are using the 'Outlook new' tag. Based on the information I have, the Outlook Today feature is only supported in the Classic Outlook version. If possible, please help confirm which Outlook version you are currently using. Once I receive your confirmation, I will provide you with the most appropriate and effective guidance.

    Below are the troubleshooting steps for Classic Outlook:

    Step 1: Remove and re-add the folder

    • Click Customize Outlook Today

    • Select the folder that is experiencing the issue → Save changes

    • Then go back and reselect this folder

    Step 2: Create a new profile

    If the issue persists:

    In the Windows search bar:

    User's image

    • Open Control Panel → Mail → Show Profiles → Add…

    User's image

    • Create a new profile and reconfigure your account

    • Select Prompt for a profile to be used to test

    Step 3: Perform an Online Repair of Office

    • Press Windows + I

    • Go to Apps → Installed apps

    User's image

    • Find Microsoft 365 Apps

    • Click Modify → Online Repair

    I hope this information is helpful. Please follow these steps and let me know if they work for you. If not, we can work together to resolve the issue.

    Thank you for your patience and understanding. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please feel free to leave a comment on this post so I can continue to support you.

    I look forward to hearing back from you.


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