How to Send Word Documents Through Windows Mail or Outlook
Question details
Users are trying to send Word documents directly as email attachments but are experiencing compatibility issues with Windows Mail and encountering version conflicts with Microsoft Outlook.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Attempting to share a document directly from the word processor using the 'Send as Attachment' or 'Send to Mail Recipient' feature.
- Observed behavior
- The feature works with MAPI-compliant clients like Outlook but fails with the default Windows Mail app. Additionally, users sometimes receive an error stating that an older version of Outlook is running.
Ensure you have a MAPI-compatible desktop email application installed (such as Microsoft Outlook or Mozilla Thunderbird) and set it as your default email client in Windows settings.
Send as Attachment Using a MAPI-Compliant Client
Use Word's built-in sharing feature with a compatible desktop email client like Microsoft Outlook.
The built-in 'Send as Attachment' feature relies on the Messaging Application Programming Interface (MAPI). Because the default Windows Mail app does not support MAPI commands, you must use a traditional desktop email client to use this specific shortcut.
Open your document in Microsoft Word and click on the 'File' tab in the top-left corner, then select 'Share'.
Click on 'Email' from the sharing options provided.
Choose 'Send as Attachment'. This will automatically open a new message window in your default MAPI-compliant email program with the document attached.
Resolve the 'Older Version of Outlook is Running' Error
Fix the version conflict error by terminating stuck background processes and resetting your default mail application.
Send Documents as Email Attachments Easily with WPS Office
WPS Office offers a seamless and highly compatible way to create, edit, and email your documents directly from the application without relying on complex configurations.
- 1. Open your document in WPS Writer: Launch WPS Office and open the text document you wish to share.
- 2. Access the main menu: Click on the 'Menu' button located in the top-left corner of the workspace.
- 3. Select the share option: Hover over 'Share' in the dropdown menu, then click on 'Email'.
- 4. Send your email: Your default desktop email client will open automatically with the document attached. Simply enter the recipient's address and click send.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why doesn't the 'Send to Mail Recipient' button work with Windows Mail?
The 'Send to Mail Recipient' feature relies on MAPI (Messaging Application Programming Interface) to communicate with your email client. The default Windows Mail app is not MAPI-compliant, which means it cannot process these automated attachment commands from Word or File Explorer.
Can I use third-party email clients to send Word attachments directly?
Yes. Third-party email clients like Mozilla Thunderbird are MAPI-compliant and will work with the 'Send as Attachment' feature, provided they are set as your default email application in your Windows system settings.
How do I share a Word document if my email client isn't supported?
If your email client does not support MAPI integrations, you can simply save the Word document to your local hard drive, manually open your email application, compose a new message, and use the 'Attach File' (paperclip) icon to add your document.
