Outlook users on Windows 7 face login issues on Chromium browsers

Update 25/06/24 4:14 pm (IST): An independent consultant on the Microsoft forums has asked users to try using other browsers such as Firefox. Additionally, they also highlighted an announcement from Microsoft that talks about steps the company is taking to bolster security on Outlook. Starting September 16, 2024, Basic Authentication will be deprecated for Outlook personal email accounts. This means users will need to switch to Modern Authentication methods, which provide an additional layer of security against unauthorized access and email-based cyberattacks. The change will affect all Outlook.com, Hotmail.com, and Live.com accounts.

To prepare for this change, users are advised to download free Outlook apps for iOS, Android, Mac, or Windows, or use Outlook 2021 (build 11601.10000 or higher). Additionally, Microsoft is deprecating the lightweight version of the Outlook Web App on August 19, 2024. After 2024, users will need to run the latest versions of supported browsers to access Outlook.com, with specific minimum system requirements for both browsers and operating systems. These changes are part of Microsoft’s broader efforts to modernize and secure their email services.

This big change might be the reason behind recent trouble Outlook users are facing on Windows 7 with Chromium browsers.

Original article published on June 17, 2024, follows:

Recently, many Outlook users running Windows 7 have been unable to log into their accounts through Chromium-based browsers such as Chrome, Edge, and Opera. The issue, which began last week, results in an “Aw Snap” screen displaying an error code: STATUS_STACK_OVERFLOW. This problem has left users frustrated and searching for solutions.

From Canada to Qatar, reports have flooded online forums detailing the sudden onset of the problem. While some users have resorted to digging out their old Windows XP machines just to check their emails, others have expressed frustration at the prospect of having to upgrade their hardware or operating system just to access their Outlook emails.

Interestingly, the problem seems confined to Windows 7 devices, which no longer receive support from Microsoft. Chromium-based browsers also ended their support for Windows 7 over a year ago, leaving users vulnerable to such compatibility issues.

Microsoft support has shed some light on the situation, explaining that the issue stems from a compatibility problem between the Chromium engine and Outlook.com. In a statement from a Microsoft Community Support Specialist, the company confirmed, “After a short investigation, we found that it is a compatibility issue between the Chrome kernel and Outlook.com.” They have also asked affected users to submit their browser version numbers to help quickly locate the problematic version.

Since Windows and Chrome are no longer receiving updates on Windows 7, it seems recent updates to Outlook itself may have triggered this unexpected conflict. But there’s a silver lining. A simple workaround has emerged from the resourceful Windows 7 community. Users have found that switching to Firefox, a non-Chromium browser, allows them to access their Outlook accounts without any issues. So, if you’re stuck in the “STATUS_STACK_OVERFLOW” loop, dusting off that old Firefox installation might just be your saving grace.

Microsoft has also suggested using the beta version of Edge as a potential solution, or updating Chrome to version 126.0.6478.62, which seems to work for some users. However, the Firefox workaround appears to be the most reliable fix for now. They have also suggested that some security configurations in Chrome could be contributing to the problem, as similar issues have been reported on Chrome for Android.

While this issue has undoubtedly caused headaches for many, it highlights the challenges of maintaining compatibility with older operating systems. As technology evolves, sometimes unexpected glitches like this one arise. But fear not, Windows 7 users, your email is not lost. With a little patience and the help of the Firefox workaround, you can keep those messages flowing in.

While these workarounds offer temporary relief, Microsoft is actively investigating the root cause of the issue, and hopefully, a permanent fix will be rolled out soon. In the meantime, spread the word about the Firefox workaround to your fellow Windows 7 users and let’s keep those inboxes alive!