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Thunderbird Won’t Open: 4 Fix if it has Stopped Working
Some of the easiest soluiton on the web
7 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
Mozilla Thunderbird is one of the most trusted email clients on the market, available on various platforms used not only as an email client but also as an RSS feed and much more. And the best part? It’s anopen-sourceproject.
However, even though this email client is frequently updated and well-coded, users are experiencing several issues with the software.
One is critical, and it’s related to sudden crashes after startup. For this purpose, we prepared a simple but helpful workaround that should help you resolve it.
Why won’t Thunderbird open?
If you have issues opening Thunderbird, there are a few elements that users have attributed to this. Some of them include the following:
Although a solid email client, many users reported that Thunderbird wouldn’t open on their PC. This can be an issue. Speaking of Thunderbird, here are some similar issues reported by users:
What can I do if Thunderbird won’t open?
Before trying our fixes, you should restart and reset your modem. Several users reported that they fixed the issue with Thunderbird simply by restarting their modem. This is relatively simple, and to do it, you need to press the Power button on your modem, wait for a few seconds and then turn it back on again.
You can also consider switching to a different email client. For example, if the previous solution didn’t fix the problem with Thunderbird, this might be an excellent time to consider switching to a different email client.
Many great email clients are available, but if you want one similar to Thunderbird, we recommend you tryMailbird.
Due to its seamless integration with other email clients like Gmail and Outlook,Mailbirdis one of the best software options on the market.
You can quickly transfer complicated schedules from your calendar and also add contacts from other third-party software, allowing you not to worry about your data not being compatible.
Or, as an alternative, use a portable version of the app. This version doesn’t require installation, and it won’t add any information to the registry so the previous Thunderbird installation won’t affect it in any way.
Once you download the portable version, run it and check if that solves your problem. If the issue doesn’t appear, you might have to switch to the Portable version until you fix the problem.
1. Delete parent.lock file
These steps should also correct any issues with your Thunderbird user profile in case it is corrupted.
2. Reinstall Thunderbird
According to users, sometimes Thunderbird won’t open if your installation is damaged. This can be a big problem, but one of the easiest ways to fix the issue is to reinstall Thunderbird. There are several ways to do that, and you can do it right from the Settings app.
We recommend you use dedicated software to uninstall Thunderbird. Sometimes, uninstalling from the UI or the settings app can leave behind unwanted files.
Not only will these files take up space on your PC for no reason, but they may also prevent you from reinstalling the app and creating all sorts of errors in your system.
We suggest you look into thebest uninstaller softwareand pick your best bet. They are specifically created to remove stubborn programs along with lingering files.
On top of that, many of them include additional PC optimization features that keep your system clean and high-functioning.
3. Start Windows in Safe Mode
Once you start Windows in Safe Mode, try to rerun Thunderbird. If the issue still exists, start Thunderbird in Safe Mode and check if that helps.
4. Start Thunderbird in Safe Mode
If you want a more user-friendly way to start Thunderbird in Safe Mode, locate the Thunderbird shortcut, press and hold theShiftkey and start the application.
After doing that, a new window will appear. Just click Continue in Safe Mode to start the Thunderbird. If the issue doesn’t appear, your add-ons or toolbars are causing it.
To permanently fix the problem, repeat the process, but this time checkDisable all add-onsand Reset toolbars and controls. Now click theMake Changes and Restartbutton.
This is useful if your configuration or third-party add-ons cause the issue. For example, Thunderbird supports a wide array of add-ons allowing you to enhance its functionality. Still, sometimes specific add-ons can interfere with your system and prevent you from starting Thunderbird.
Hopefully, your email client now works. However, if you have any remarks or questions regarding the subject, use the comments section below!
Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Passionate about all elements related to Windows and combined with his innate curiosity, Ivan has delved deep into understanding this operating system, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
When he’s not tackling diverse driver-related problems, Ivan enjoys watching good movies and spending time hiking with his family and friends.
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Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Ivan has delved deep into understanding the Windows OS, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
