Outlook Window Hook is a tool designed to keep Microsoft Outlook running in the background even when the main window is closed. This utility ensures that Outlook remains active without requiring the application window to stay visible, similar to how other messaging platforms like Teams operate.
Key Features:
Maintains Outlook's functionality while hiding the main window.
Option to add the tool to startup for seamless integration into your workflow.
No administrative privileges required; installs locally in the AppData folder.
Audience & Benefit:
Ideal for users who rely on Outlook but prefer a clutter-free desktop experience. This tool ensures continuous operation of Outlook without the need for constant window management, enhancing productivity and convenience.
The software can be installed via winget, making it easy to set up and integrate into your system.
README
Outlook Window Hook
Keeps Outlook running in the background when the main window is closed, similar to Teams
Currently only works with the new Outlook client - if there's enough interest I'd be happy to implement support for older versions!
Download
You can find the installer or a standalone version on the Releases page here - please note for the standalone version OlkWindowHook.dll must be in the same directory as OlkWindowHook.exe
Features
Option to add to Startup (after running, right click the system tray icon and tick Autostart)
No need for admin privileges - installs to your AppData folder
How it works
Checks for new instances of olk.exe every 0.5 seconds
If a new instance is found, hooks in to the first window created
Intercepts the WM_CLOSE event and instead calls ShowWindow(pCwp->hwnd, SW_HIDE)
Building the installer
To build the OlkWindowHook.Installer project requires the Windows SDK MSI Tools. You will need to make sure that the OlkWindowHook.Installer project properties (namely the PostBuildEvent) point to your installation of MsiInfo.exe - this is required to set the flags on the installer to indicate admin rights aren't required