How to Fix the Greyed-Out Get Add-ins Button in Outlook
Question details
The user needs to enable the 'Get Add-ins' button in Microsoft Outlook, which is currently greyed out and unclickable.
- Product
- Microsoft Outlook
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to install or manage add-ins to extend Microsoft Outlook's functionality.
- Observed behavior
- The 'Get Add-ins' button is disabled, preventing the user from accessing the Office Store or installing extensions, even when privacy options appear to be enabled.
Verify that your Outlook application is updated to the latest version and that you are actively signed in with the correct Microsoft 365 account credentials.
Enable Optional Connected Experiences in Outlook for Mac
Use this solution if you are using Outlook on a Mac and your local privacy settings are restricting access to online services like the add-in store.
Microsoft requires 'connected experiences' to be enabled in order to communicate with their cloud services, which includes downloading and managing Outlook add-ins.
Launch Outlook for Mac, click on 'Outlook' in the top Apple menu bar, and select 'Preferences' from the dropdown.
In the Preferences window, locate and click on the 'Privacy' icon.
Find the checkbox labeled 'Enable optional connected experiences' and make sure it is checked. Restart Outlook to apply the changes.
Adjust User-Owned Apps and Services in Microsoft 365 Admin Center
Use this solution if you are part of a corporate or organizational network where IT policies might be disabling user access to add-ins.
Verify Account Credentials and Restart
Use this solution if you have a personal Microsoft 365 Family or Personal subscription and are still experiencing the issue.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Get Add-ins button greyed out in Outlook?
This commonly occurs when 'optional connected experiences' are disabled in your Outlook privacy settings, or if an organization's Microsoft 365 administrator has restricted access to the Office Store and user-owned apps.
Do I need admin rights to fix the disabled Get Add-ins button?
If you are using a work or school account provided by your organization, you will likely need an IT administrator to enable access in the Microsoft 365 Admin center. Personal users can typically fix this on their own by adjusting their local privacy settings.
Does updating Outlook help fix missing add-in buttons?
Yes. If the Get Add-ins button is deactivated due to a synchronization glitch or an outdated build, updating Outlook to the latest version and refreshing your account login can restore the functionality.
