Spam Tag cannot connect after upgrading to version 22.x

Overview

Problem Definition:
Users are unable to log in to the GFI MailEssentials SpamTag add-in in Microsoft Outlook. Although the credentials and server URL work correctly in the MailEssentials web console, the SpamTag add-in fails to connect, resulting in login errors or no server validation.

Symptoms Include:

• Login prompt loops or fails in Outlook

• SpamTag toolbar is missing or unresponsive

• Error: Unable to connect to server

• No response when clicking Spam/Not Spam buttons

Solution

Step 1: Upgrade to the Latest MailEssentials Version

A new version with the fix has been released: MailEssentials 22.2 - patch

1. Follow the steps in this article: Upgrading to the latest version of MailEssentials .

   1. Use the GFIMailEssentials.exe file for the upgrade.

Step 2: Uninstall SpamTag

1. Open Add/Remove Programs in Windows and uninstall:

   • GFI MailEssentials SpamTag

2. Delete residual files:

   • Delete the folder ...\GFI\MailEssentials SpamTag\
   • Browse to ...\Users\Default\AppData\Local\GFI\ and delete the GFI MailEssentials folder.
3. Disable UAC (User Access Control) from Start > Control Panel > User accounts > Change User Account Control Settings > Set to Never Notify.

4. Restart the client machine.

Step 3: Reinstall SpamTag

1. Copy GFIMailEssentialsSpamTag.exe to the client.

   1. Installer is available in the same link as the MailEssentials installer.

2. Close Microsoft Outlook completely.

3. Right-click the installer → Run as Administrator.

4. Select preferred language → Click Next.

5. Review and accept the license terms → Click Next.

6. Enter the same MailEssentials URL used in the web console (e.g., http://servername/MailEssentials or your HTTP equivalent)

   1. Wait for the connection to verify.

7. Choose installation location → Click Install.

8. When complete → Click Finish.

9. Open Microsoft Outlook and sign in using your credentials.

10. Verify that SpamTag appears under the Home ribbon.

Optional: You may also deploy SpamTag via GPO.

Additional Step

If the issue persists, please enable tracing, reproduce the issue and provide us with a fresh set of troubleshooting logs from the server and the Event Viewer logs from the client machine - Creating and submitting troubleshooting logs other relevant info for gfi mailessentials.

Summary

If you're experiencing connection issues between Outlook’s SpamTag and the GFI MailEssentials server, upgrading to the latest MailEssentials version and reinstalling SpamTag resolves the issue. Ensure all old configurations are removed, Outlook is closed during install, and you use the correct server URL.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Do I need to upgrade MailEssentials before fixing SpamTag?
A: Yes. The latest version includes fixes required for SpamTag connectivity.

Q2: Can I deploy SpamTag to multiple users automatically?
A: Yes, SpamTag can be deployed via GPO across your organization.

Q3: What should I check if the installer cannot verify the MailEssentials URL?
A: Ensure the URL is correct, reachable, and that a valid HTTPS certificate is installed if using SSL.