“Run a Script” is a part of the Outlook rule wizard, which is used to create a specific rule. It is used to develop additional features, which are not available in Outlook Rules Wizard.
The Run a Script rule action has indeed been removed from Outlook due to security updates. Once the update is installed, any existing run-a-script or run application rules will be disabled.
You can still run your macros script either by reactivating the feature or by modifying the code. If you’ve encountered the ‘Outlook run a script missing’ issue, this article is dedicated to addressing just that. Dive in to learn “How to restore the missing run a script option in Outlook Rule.”
Why Microsoft Remove Run a Script rule from Outlook?
Run a Script technically consists of VBA coding which brings issues with Outlook, Microsoft facing real issues to fix it, and fixing it would be too expensive.
Microsoft has discovered a security issue with the way scripts and applications are being executed via a message rule.
Restore Missing Run a Script Option in Outlook
You need to set the EnableUnsafeClientMailRules value in the registry to restore Run a Script Option in Outlook.
Step 1: Press the Win + R keys which open the Run dialog box
Step 2: In the dialog box type Regedit in the Open setup box.
Step 3: The user Account Control dialog box appears, Click Yes to proceed.
Step 4: Registry Editor dialog box appears which consists of numerous folders, it is exceedingly difficult to select and understand which folder is important and which is not.
Simply copy the path below and paste it into your address bar.
- For Outlook 2016 and newer – HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Office\16.0\Outlook\Security
- For Outlook 2013 – HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Office\15.0\Outlook\Security
- For Outlook 2010 – HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Office\14.0\Outlook\Security
That will direct walk you to the desired window, please open the Security key.
Step 5: Right-click the Security key, select New >> DWORD (64-BIT Value) from the dropdown list, and then name the new DWORD as “EnableUnsafeClientMailRules“
Step 6: EnableUnsafeClientMailRules DWORD added in the security section double click it to open the Edit QWORD Value dialog box.
Step 7: Type 1 manually in the Value data box and Click OK to close.
Step 8: Close all the windows, and RESTART your system, which will enable the run a script option.
These above steps re-enable the Run a Script rule via the Registry.
If you don’t want to edit the registry yourself, you can use this ready-to-use .reg file. Click here to get:
Final Words
In conclusion, using the Run a Script rule in Outlook, you can also schedule an action to be executed when the items in the contract are inserted. As we’ve explored in this guide, restoring the ‘Run a Script‘ option is feasible with the right steps.
Always ensure you stay updated with software changes and remember: the solution is often simpler than it seems.
Whether you’re an advanced user or just getting started, the adaptability of Outlook and its vast user community will ensure you’re never left in the dark for long.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why did the ‘Run a Script’ option disappear from my Outlook rules?
Microsoft periodically updates and changes its software for security and other reasons. In certain updates, features like ‘Run a Script’ may have been disabled or hidden due to potential vulnerabilities.
Is it safe to restore the ‘Run a Script’ option?
Yes, it’s safe as long as you understand the scripts you’re running and trust their sources. Always be cautious with scripts, as they can potentially execute harmful commands.
Will restoring this option affect other Outlook settings or rules?
No, restoring the ‘Run a Script’ option should not impact other settings or rules. However, always back up your settings and rules before making any changes.
Can I reach out to Microsoft support regarding this issue?
Absolutely. Microsoft support can guide you through many issues, including this one. But remember, they might have reasons for disabling certain features, so they may advise against enabling it.
What versions of Outlook are affected by this missing feature?
The ‘Run a Script’ feature has been seen to disappear in various versions, but primarily in some versions of Outlook 2016, 2019, and Office 365. Always check the latest updates and documentation for your specific version.
If I update Outlook, will the ‘Run a Script’ option disappear again?
It’s possible. Updates might revert certain settings for security or functionality reasons. It’s always good to check release notes of updates to understand the changes they bring.
Are there alternative methods to ‘Run a Script’ in Outlook if I can’t restore it?
Yes, you can use third-party add-ins or other automation tools that integrate with Outlook. However, always ensure that these third-party solutions are from trusted sources to avoid security issues.
How do I back up my Outlook rules before making changes?
In the Rules and Alerts dialog box, click on ‘Options’. From there, you can choose to export your rules to a file, ensuring you have a backup should anything go awry.
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