Microsoft released a non-security update for Outlook as part of a batch of updates to resolve a vulnerability in Microsoft Outlook, but that non-security update also remove the folder pane from Outlook after installing it. The vulnerability the batch of updates were released to fix is critical and could allow remote code execution if a user opens or preview specially crafted emails.
This vulnerability will only affect users who are configured with administrative rights on the local machine. If your account is configure with less rights, this vulnerability may not affect you.
Now after installing the update over the weekend, I quickly found out that my folder pane was gone when I opened Outlook. If you’re experiencing the same program, you may want to remove the non-security update.
Here’s how Outlook looks with the non-security update (KB2817630)
Now to fix the issue, you will want to remove the update that is causing this issue from your machine. It looks like Microsoft has already remove it from it update repository after receiving complaints from users.
If you haven’t already downloaded the update, then you’re good. If you have and missing the folder pane as shown above, then continue below.
In Windows 7, go to Start –> Control Panel—> Programs (Uninstall a program)
To get to the control panel when using Windows 8, press the Windows Key + X on your keyboard and select Control Panel from the tool menu. The Windows Key is the key on your keyboard when Windows logo to the left of the spacebar.
Next, click the link to reads ‘View installed updates’ from the list of the page.
Finally, look for the update with KB2817630 in the update list and uninstall by right-clicking it and selecting Uninstall.
Restart your computer. Hopefully, the issue will be resolved and your folder pane should appear again. If not, go back to the Control Panel –> Programs –> Uninstall or Change Programs and select Outlook Programs. Then click the Change bottom.
Next, select Repair or Add / Remove features. Don’t change anything, and click Continue on the next page. Outlook should repair itself and restore the default settings.
Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I fix the Outlook 2013 empty folder pane issue after installing a non-security update?
To fix the empty folder pane in Outlook 2013 caused by a non-security update, you need to uninstall the update KB2817630 from your machine. This can be done through the Control Panel by accessing the list of installed updates and right-clicking on KB2817630 to uninstall it.
What does the non-security update KB2817630 do to Outlook 2013?
The non-security update KB2817630 for Outlook 2013 was released by Microsoft as part of a batch of updates to fix a critical vulnerability that could lead to remote code execution. However, this update inadvertently caused the folder pane to disappear for some users after installation.
Who is affected by the Outlook 2013 folder pane disappearance issue?
Users with administrative rights on the local machine who installed the non-security update KB2817630 for Outlook 2013 are likely to be affected by the disappearance of the folder pane. Users with less rights configured may not experience this issue.
How do I know if the non-security update KB2817630 is causing the folder pane issue in Outlook 2013?
If you recently installed the non-security update KB2817630 for Outlook 2013 and found that the folder pane is missing when you open Outlook, then it is likely that this update is causing the issue.
What steps should I take if my Outlook 2013 folder pane is missing?
If your Outlook 2013 folder pane is missing, you should check if the non-security update KB2817630 was recently installed. If so, follow the instructions to uninstall this update from your machine to restore the folder pane.
How can I remove the non-security update KB2817630 from my Windows machine?
To remove the non-security update KB2817630 from your Windows machine, go to the Control Panel, navigate to 'Programs' or 'Uninstall a program,' then select 'View installed updates.' Look for KB2817630 in the update list and uninstall it by right-clicking and selecting 'Uninstall.'
Is there an alternative solution to fixing the Outlook 2013 empty folder pane issue?
If you prefer not to uninstall the non-security update KB2817630, you can wait for Microsoft to release a fix for the issue. Keep an eye on official announcements or updates from Microsoft regarding this problem.
What should I do if I haven't downloaded the non-security update KB2817630 yet?
If you haven't downloaded the non-security update KB2817630 for Outlook 2013 and are not experiencing the empty folder pane issue, it is recommended to refrain from installing this update until Microsoft resolves the problem. Stay updated on any official communications from Microsoft about this update.