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Cannot Perform the Requested Operation in Outlook [Fix]
Find out what worked for other users!
3 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Are you unable to expand the Distribution List inOutlook? But many reported gettingCannot perform the requested operationerror when trying to expand the distribution list in Outlook.
Microsoft Outlookis supposed to offer one of the most convenient features that allow you to send messages through a handy contact list.
This is calledDistribution List, and you can always use a service like Google Groups to create such a list that will send out group emails regardless of whatemail clientpeople are using.
Long story short, when you want to email a handful of contacts, the Distribution List should step in and make the job easier for you. This doesn’t happen when you type the first few letters of one of your distribution lists. The list gets inserted into theTo:field, but trying to expand it fails.
How do you solve this? If you’re short on time, just take a look at the following Outlook troubleshooting methods.
How can I fix Outlook cannot perform the requested operation error?
1. Change the Distribution Group address and display name
Often, the quickest solution when you seeCannot perform the requested operationwhen trying to expand the expand distribution list in Outlook is to change the distribution group address and display name.
2. Rebuild Outlook email profile
Does trying another profile with the same contact group on the same PC work? If so, you could try to rebuild the user’s email profile after logging into the computer.
For many users, the distribution list expansion appeared to be functioning properly again after applying the above solution.
3. Change the list to a Universal Distribution Group
If the issue persists, change the list to a Universal Distribution Group. You should then be able to expand the list and view the members withinOutlook.
However, remember that distribution groups can be used only to distribute messages, while security groups can be used for message distribution and access to resources.
The Distribution List feature takes away the hassle of copying and pasting emails, thus saving you time.
In case you still get the Cannot perform the requested operation error in Outlook when trying to expand the distribution list, there’s always the option to switch to anotherreliable email client.
Hopefully, one of these tips worked, and you can expand Outlook’s Distribution Lists again. Do tell us which fix worked for you in the comments section.
More about the topics:Outlook Errors,Outlook Guides
Radu Tyrsina
Radu Tyrsina has been a Windows fan ever since he got his first PC, a Pentium III (a monster at that time).
For most of the kids of his age, the Internet was an amazing way to play and communicate with others, but he was deeply impressed by the flow of information and how easily you can find anything on the web.
Prior to founding Windows Report, this particular curiosity about digital content enabled him to grow a number of sites that helped hundreds of millions reach faster the answer they’re looking for.
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Radu Tyrsina
