Outlook 2007 cannot attach file to email

Frustrating! Don't worry, I'm here to help you troubleshoot the issue. Here are some steps to help you resolve the problem:

Step 1: Check for updates

Make sure Outlook 2007 is up to date. Go to Help > Check for Updates to ensure you have the latest patches and service packs installed.

Step 2: Disable add-ins

Add-ins can sometimes interfere with Outlook's functionality. Try disabling all add-ins and then re-enabling them one by one to identify the problematic add-in:

  1. Go to Tools > Trust Center > Add-ins.
  2. Click on "Go" next to "Manage COM Add-ins".
  3. Uncheck all add-ins and click "OK".
  4. Try attaching a file again.
  5. If it works, re-enable the add-ins one by one to identify the problematic one.

Step 3: Check file associations

Outlook might not be able to attach files due to incorrect file associations. Try resetting the file associations:

  1. Go to Start > Run (or press the Windows key + R).
  2. Type "regedit" and press Enter.
  3. Navigate to the following registry key: HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT*\shell\open\command
  4. Right-click on the "command" key and select "Modify".
  5. In the "Value data" field, enter the following: "C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office12\OUTLOOK.EXE" "%1" /a
  6. Click "OK" and close the Registry Editor.
  7. Try attaching a file again.

Step 4: Check for corrupted Outlook cache

Corrupted cache files can cause issues with attaching files. Try clearing the Outlook cache:

  1. Go to Tools > Options > Other > Advanced.
  2. Click on "Empty "Outlook" Folder" and then "OK".
  3. Close and restart Outlook.
  4. Try attaching a file again.

Step 5: Check for antivirus software interference

Antivirus software can sometimes interfere with Outlook's functionality. Try temporarily disabling your antivirus software and then re-enabling it to see if it resolves the issue.

Step 6: Repair Outlook

If none of the above steps work, you can try repairing Outlook:

  1. Go to Start > Control Panel > Programs and Features (or Add/Remove Programs).
  2. Select "Microsoft Office" and click "Change".
  3. Select "Repair" and follow the prompts.
  4. Try attaching a file again.

If none of these steps resolve the issue, you may want to consider seeking assistance from Microsoft Support or a professional IT consultant.