How to Fix Microsoft Outlook Can’t Create File Error

The article intends to help users fix cannot create file error in Microsoft Outlook. The methods compiled here are simple and correct until date. It is, however, highly recommended to follow the instructions accurately. This will save users from running into problems and eventually looking for Microsoft product support.

Do you often receive can’t create file error message while saving or opening an attachment in Microsoft Outlook? It might happen due to the Temp Files folder that remains inaccessible by the Outlook while opening a file as the user doesn’t have sufficient permission for it. The below mentioned guide will help you fix the issue on your own and certainly without the Microsoft technical help.

Instructions:

Automatic Procedure –

Download Microsoft’s Fix It tool namely MicrosoftFixit50673.msi from its official website. When prompted, click on the Save File button to save it. Choose a convenient location (like desktop) for saving the file. When done, locate the file, double click on it to open and run the installation wizard. Run the tool to initiate the fixing procedure. Be patient as this will take some time. When finished, the tool will automatically fix the problem and let you use your Outlook trouble free.

Manual Procedure –

For Outlook 2010: Close any window including Outlook that is currently opened on desktop. Click on the Start menu and navigate to My Computer. You can also double click on the My Computer icon (located to on the desktop). In the My Computer window, navigate to the C: directory by double clicking on the C: drive icon.

Click on the File tab at the top, click on New, and then select Folder from the dropdown list. When the icon of a new folder appears, give it a name like temporary0 (or any name of your choice that is convenient to you). Remember the location of this folder as it would be required in the next steps. Exit the C: drive and My Computer windows.

Click on the Start menu and type ‘regedit’ (without quotes and as is) in the Start Search box. Hit the Enter button on the keyboard. When prompted for an admin password, type it in and proceed. In the Registry Editor window, navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER> Software> Microsoft Office> 14.0> Outlook> Security. In the Security subkey, double click on the OutlookSecureTempFolder key on the right hand. Under the Value Data box, type the location of the folder that created in above steps in the C:drive. For example, you will type C:temporary0 and then click on the OK button. This will add a registry key to access files like this. Close the Registry Editor and window or any other window that is currently opened and restart your computer. Launch Outlook and open any file without problems.

Additional Tips:

If you are away from your computer and still want to use the Fix it tool, then download and save it to a CD or USB flash drive etc. When you reach back home, turn on your computer, insert the CD or drive and run the tool.

It is highly recommended to backup you registry before modifying it. A wrongly modified registry can lead to system crash or other severe problems.