If you are unable to open messages via the search tool, it may be that Outlook is not associated with the MSG file format in Windows.

First check that the problem is with MSG association

To confirm that the problem is with Outlook and not something else:

1. Find a message via the search tool
2. Right-click the message and select Explore Location
3. Double-click the message

If the file does not open in Outlook then the problem is likely to be Windows failing to associate MSG files with Outlook.

Resolution: Via the Add or Remove Programs dialogue in Windows select Microsoft Office, then Modify and follow the instructions to 'Repair' it.