If the update for Outlook connector 14 to Hotmail breaks down, there’s a fix.
Microsoft released a mandatory upgrade to its Outlook Connector 14 software which endlessly cycles through the “You must upgrade…” message. It seems to affect Vista and Windows 7 users leaving XP systems alone.
The upgrade was offered automatically via Microsoft Update so users would be forgiven for not understanding what caused the problem.
At first Microsoft Support suggests a fix, see below, but when pressed admits that Microsoft’s automatic update was to blame. While the update has now been withdrawn, that’s too late for many Outlook Connector users. Microsoft is apparently embarrassed about this error and you won’t find any mention of it on their Knowledge Base.
To fix the problem uninstall the Outlook Connector (this is important) then re-install the latest full version downloaded from Microsoft. Either the 32-bit or Outlook 2010 64-bit version.
The bug is in the updating process so if you install the full version of the Outlook Connector from scratch you can avoid the bug.
The long term solution is to tweak your Microsoft Update settings. Automatic updates sound great until Microsoft slips up – this isn’t the first time Redmond has messed up an update and it won’t be the last. Office-Watch.com has said for years that allowing Microsoft to change your software automatically is like giving lunatics keys to the asylum and renovation rights as well! We recommend allowing updates to be downloaded but only installed when you permit – this lets you keep a track of updates and any bugs that arise afterwards.
Our thanks to “CP” for notice of a problem with the update for Outlook Connector for Hotmail. He sent us lots of details including the full exchange of emails with MS Support.
