The main cause is usually a conflict between the 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Adobe Acrobat, the PDF Preview Handler, and Outlook or Windows Explorer, causing compatibility issues. Other factors can include outdated Adobe software, registry errors, or incorrect PDF handler settings, which can affect the preview function. In this article, we will discuss different ways to solve this error.
1. Disable Internet Auto-Detect
By turning off “Internet Auto-Detect” in Internet Options, you let Windows handle local file previews without going through the network settings. This change reduces unnecessary network checks, allowing the preview handler to access file data more efficiently.
2. Accept Adobe Reader’s EULA
If you get the PDF Preview Handler error, accepting Adobe Reader’s End User License Agreement (EULA) might help. Accepting the EULA is necessary for Adobe Reader to work properly with programs like Outlook or Windows Explorer. Without it, Adobe’s functions are limited, which can prevent previews. This step can improve the connection, making PDF previews work better. If this scenario is applicable, you can resolve the issue easily by opening Adobe Reader for the first time and accepting the Adobe Software License Agreement by clicking the Accept button. After you do this, you can safely close the application and restart your computer.
3. Run Adobe Reader in Compatibility Mode
Switching Adobe Reader to Compatibility Mode can help with preview problems by making it run like it’s on an older version of Windows. This can reduce conflicts with newer Windows or Outlook versions and prevent errors that disrupt the preview function.
4. Make Adobe Reader the Default PDF Handler
Setting Adobe Reader as the default PDF handler makes sure Windows uses Adobe’s tools to show PDFs, reducing conflicts and improving preview stability. If the PDF Preview Handler error persists, proceed to the final potential fix below.
5. Edit Registry
To address the PDF preview issue, adjust the registry settings. Change certain registry keys to help Outlook or Explorer connect properly with Adobe’s PDF Preview Tool. This aligns file paths and permissions, improving compatibility between Acrobat Reader and Windows.
