Delete Outlook Identity on Mac 2016: A Step-by-Step Guide

When you try to access an email message from Spotlight search results in Outlook for Mac 2016, you might encounter an error message that reads, 'Outlook cannot open the file because it is not associated with the default identity.' This error can be frustrating and prevent you from accessing important emails. In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind this error and provide a step-by-step guide on how to fix it.

The main reason for this error is that Spotlight search returns results from non-default Outlook identities. When you have multiple Outlook identities or profiles set up on your Mac, each identity has its own set of settings and configuration. However, when you use Spotlight search to access an email message, the default identity might not be selected, leading to this error.

To fix this issue, there are two primary methods that can be used: excluding other Outlook identities from Spotlight searches and deleting non-default Outlook identities or profiles. Let's explore each of these methods in more detail:

Method 1: Excluding Other Outlook Identities from Spotlight Searches

One way to exclude other Outlook identities from Spotlight searches is by modifying the Spotlight search settings on your Mac. To do this, follow these steps:

* Click on the Spotlight icon in the menu bar and select 'Spotlight Preferences.'

* In the Spotlight Preferences window, click on the 'Privacy' tab.

* Select the checkbox next to 'Outlook Identities' to exclude them from Spotlight searches.

Method 2: Deleting Non-Default Outlook Identities or Profiles

Another way to fix this issue is by deleting non-default Outlook identities or profiles. To do this, follow these steps:

* Open Outlook for Mac 2016 and go to the 'Tools' menu.

* Select 'Accounts' from the drop-down menu.

* In the Accounts window, select the identity you want to delete and click on the 'Delete' button.

Alternatively, you can use an OLM converter tool to convert files into a desired format. This method is especially useful if you have a large number of emails or contacts that you need to transfer between Outlook identities.

In conclusion, the error message 'Outlook cannot open the file because it is not associated with the default identity' occurs when Spotlight search returns results from non-default Outlook identities. To fix this issue, you can exclude other Outlook identities from Spotlight searches or delete non-default Outlook identities or profiles. By following these step-by-step instructions, you should be able to resolve the error and access your emails without any issues.

Delete outlook identity mac 2016