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Can't log in personal email - gives error 'COMException'

Gianmarco Mendicino 0 Reputation points
2025-12-04T13:33:12.4366667+00:00

I can log into my University account email just fine, but when I try log in either the web or windows version of Outlook (both classic and new version), I get the following error:

'We ran into an error - COMException'

I tried using the Help box on Outlook via my Uni email and it's not even giving me the option to speak to an agent. I've literally spent more time trying to FIND someone to help me than actually getting help, and I've still yet to find a Microsoft representative who can help me with this XD. Unbelievable scenes here at Microsoft, damn near 3T market cap.

Outlook | Web | Outlook.com | Email
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  1. Chloe-L 5,145 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2025-12-04T17:54:42.2666667+00:00

    Hi Gianmarco Mendicino,

    Thank you for posting your question in the Microsoft Q&A Forum.

    I understand that you are encountering a COMException error when trying to log in to Outlook. To help us scope down the issue and provide the correct solution, could you please confirm if you are trying to add a Personal account (like @outlook.com, @hotmail.com) or a University/Work account?

    This distinction is important because they access different portals and authentication protocols:

    In the meantime, the COMException error usually indicates a corrupted link between your computer's Windows security settings (specifically the Web Account Manager) and the Outlook desktop app.

    Please try the following step to reset this connection:

    1. Go to Windows Settings > Accounts > Access work or school.
    2. Look for your University/Email account in the list.
    3. If you see it, select it and click Disconnect.
      • Note: This does not delete your email account; it only breaks the corrupted connection with your local Windows profile.
    4. Restart your computer.
    5. Open the Outlook Desktop app and try signing in again.

    The initial response might not address the problem. So, if your problem persists or you need any assistance, feel free to ask me by clicking "Add Comment". Thanks for your effort.

    If the answer is helpful, please click "Accept Answer" and kindly upvote it. If you have extra questions about this answer, please click "Comment".

    Note: Please follow the steps in our documentation to enable e-mail notifications if you want to receive the related email notification for this thread.

    Best regards.

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