Thunderbird is already running - you can do that
If you get the error message "... is already running" at Thunderbird, the program has most likely hung up. This practical tip shows you what you can do in this case and how you can get your mail client up and running again.
Thunderbird is already running - the solution
When a program like Thunderbird freezes, it stops responding and you can no longer use it. This is particularly annoying with programs in the background. If you get an error message after starting the mail program that Thunderbird is already running, you can usually solve the problem with a few steps:
- To do this, open the Task Manager by pressing the key combination [Ctrl] + [Shift] + [Esc].
- The Task Manager opens in a new window. You should see all open programs here. If available, select the Thunderbird program and then click on "End Task" below.
- You may now get the error message that the program is not responding. In this case, click on "End immediately".
- Then try to restart Thundebird by opening it as usual.
The emergency solution: Thunderbird is already running
If the first solution did not work or if the program was not displayed in the Task Manager, you must specifically end the Thunderbird process.
- To do this, open the Task Manager again by simultaneously pressing the [Ctrl] + [Shift] + [Esc] keys.
- Then the window with the task manager opens. Click on the "Processes" tab above.
- Then find the "thunderbird.exe" process and click on "End process" in the lower right corner.
- Then try restarting Thunderbird.
Still the problem? This is how you get Thunderbird up and running
If your problem persists, you can check to see if the error message still appears after you restart your computer. If so, we recommend that you completely uninstall Thunderbird and then reinstall it.
If you are just tired of the Thunderbird program, we will show you some free alternatives to Thunderbird in the next practical tip.