How to Fix Email Attachments That Won't Open

Step by step

1. Download the attachment to your device

   Right-click the attachment and select 'Save As' or 'Download'. Choose a location you can easily find, like your Desktop or Downloads folder. Attempting to open attachments directly from the email client often causes failures.

   Note: Use Ctrl+S (Windows) or Cmd+S (Mac) as a keyboard shortcut to save attachments quickly.

2. Check the file extension and size

   Examine the downloaded file's extension (.pdf, .docx, .jpg, etc.) and file size. If the file shows 0 bytes or has no extension, the attachment is corrupted. Contact the sender to resend the file.

   Note: Enable file extensions in Windows by opening File Explorer > View > File name extensions checkbox.

3. Scan for malware and security blocks

   Run a virus scan on the downloaded file using Windows Defender, macOS XProtect, or your antivirus software. Check if your security software quarantined the file. Restore from quarantine if the file is safe.

   Note: Windows Defender scans are accessible via Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection.

4. Install the required application

   Ensure you have the correct software installed to open the file type. PDF files need Adobe Reader or browser PDF viewers. Office documents require Microsoft Office, LibreOffice, or Google Docs. Image files open with built-in photo viewers.

   Note: Right-click the file and select 'Open with' to choose from available applications or browse for others.

5. Clear email client cache and cookies

   In webmail clients like Gmail or Outlook.com, clear your browser cache and cookies. In desktop clients like Outlook or Thunderbird, restart the application and try downloading the attachment again.

   Note: Press Ctrl+Shift+Delete (Windows) or Cmd+Shift+Delete (Mac) to quickly access browser cache clearing options.

6. Try an alternative email client or browser

   Access your email through a different client or browser. If using Outlook desktop, try Outlook web. If using Chrome, try Firefox or Safari. Different clients handle attachments with varying compatibility.

   Note: Mobile email apps often handle problematic attachments better than desktop clients.

7. Request the sender use a different file format

   Ask the sender to save the file in a more universal format like PDF instead of proprietary formats. Request they compress large files or use cloud sharing services like Google Drive or Dropbox for files over 25MB.

   Note: Many email providers block executable files (.exe, .bat, .scr) for security reasons and require ZIP compression.