OLEXP: Error Message Says "Simple MAPI Support Could Not Be Enabled" When You Start Outlook Express (299499)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Outlook Express 5.0 for Windows 98
This article was previously published under Q299499
For information about the differences between Microsoft Outlook and Microsoft Outlook Express e-mail clients, click the following article number to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base:

257824 OL2000: Differences Between Outlook and Outlook Express

WARNING:This information is preliminary and has not been confirmed or tested by Microsoft. Use only with discretion.

SYMPTOMS

When you attempt to start Outlook Express, the following error message may appear:
Simple MAPI support could not be enabled. The MAPI32.DLL in the system directory may be in use at this time. Restarting your computer should solve this problem.

CAUSE

This behavior can occur if the Windows\System directory has the wrong version of the Mapi32.dll file.

RESOLUTION

To resolve this behavior, rename the Mapi32.dll, and then run the Fixmapi.exe utility:
  1. Click Start, point to Find, and then click Files or Folders.
  2. In the Named box, type Mapi32.dll.
  3. In the Look in box, click your primary hard disk (usually drive C), and then click Find Now.
  4. Right-click the Mapi32.dll file that appears, and then click Rename.
  5. Type Mapi32.old, and then click OK.
  6. In the Named box, type Fixmapi.exe, and then click Find Now.
  7. Double-click the Fixmapi.exe file that appears.
  8. After the hourglass disappears, close the current dialog box, and then restart Outlook Express.

MORE INFORMATION

Microsoft has been unable to reproduce this behavior.
Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:6/30/2004
Keywords:kbenv kbprb kbsetup KB299499
©2004 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.