Resolving Common Issues with Outlook .pst and .ost Data

The Outlook application for computers uses 2 types of data files to store internal copies of emails, calendars, contacts, and other items, allowing users to access information without an Internet connection.

If you are using an Outlook.com, Outlook 365, or Exchange account, this information is stored in an Outlook Data file offline using the .ost format. However, if you are using a POP or IMAP account such as those provided by your Internet Service Provider (ISP), your information is stored in an Outlook Data file using the .pst format.

Typically, you can run files for an extended period without encountering any issues. However, sooner or later, these files may cease functioning and become corrupted. Hence, Outlook incorporates the Inbox Repair tool to diagnose and rectify common .pst file errors or to automatically regenerate .ost files.

In the subsequent article, Mytour will guide you on addressing common issues with Outlook .pst and .ost data files.

Rectifying Outlook Data File (.ost) Offline

If you possess an Outlook.com, Outlook 365, or Exchange account, you can follow the steps below to address errors or issues with .ost data files in Outlook:

Step 1: Close Outlook.
Step 2: Open Control Panel.

Tip:

If you're using the default Outlook configuration, you can use the path %LOCALAPPDATA%MicrosoftOutlook to directly access the .ost file location, then proceed to step 13. Otherwise, continue with the following steps:

Step 3: Click on User Accounts.
Step 4: Click on Mail.

Step 5: In the Mail Setup window, click on the Show Profiles button.

Step 6: Select the profile containing the account you want to troubleshoot. (In Outlook 2016, the default profile is called Outlook)
Step 7: Click on the Properties button.

Step 8: Click on the Email Accounts button.

Step 9: Click on the Data Files tab.
Step 10: Select the account that needs troubleshooting.
Step 11: Click on the Open File Location button.

Step 12: Before proceeding, ensure you have closed the Accounts Settings, Mail Setup, and Mail windows.
Step 13: Right-click on the .ost file for the problematic account, then select Delete.

After completing the above steps, reopen Outlook to automatically create a new .ost file for your specific account.

Fixing Outlook Data File (.pst) Errors

If your account is connected using POP or IMAP settings, you can follow the steps below to fix .pst data file errors:

Step 1: Open Outlook.
Step 2: Open File Explorer (press Windows + E).
Step 3: Navigate to the following path:

C:Program Files (x86)Microsoft Office ootOffice16

Important Note:

If you are using Outlook 2013, use the following path: C:Program Files (x86)Microsoft OfficeOffice15.

For older versions of Outlook, change Office15 in the path to Office14 for Outlook 2010 or Office13 for Outlook 2007.

Step 4: In the folder, find and double-click on the SCANPST.EXE file.

Step 5: Click on the Browse button and locate the .pst file you want to repair.
Step 6: Click on the Start button.

Step 7: Click on the Repair button.

After completing the above steps, the guide will create a backup, proceed with repairs, and generate a new log file containing repair information.

Repair process completed, you can now begin opening the Outlook application associated with the data file.

Additional Recovery Instructions

While Microsoft's tools can address common issues with Outlook .pst and .ost data files, the recovery process may require additional steps to retrieve all your items.

For instance, after this process, you may notice that some folders recreated in the Inbox are empty. You might also observe Recovered Personal Folders or Lost and Found folders in the left pane. These folders contain items that have been repaired but cannot be recovered.

To restore these items, follow the steps below:

Step 1: Open the Recovered Personal Folders or Lost and Found folder.
Step 2: Select the items you wish to restore.

Step 3: Drag and drop the items into the correct folder.
Step 4: Delete empty folders.

If items remain corrupted, you can use the .pst backup file to recover additional items using the built-in Import / Export tool:

Step 1: Select the .bak file located in the same folder as the .pst files.
Step 2: Press F2 and rename the file to .bak.pst then press Enter.
Step 3: Open Outlook.
Step 4: Click on File.
Step 5: Click on Open & Export.
Step 6: Click on the Import/Export button.

Step 7: Select the option Import from another program or file.
Step 8: Click on Next.

Step 9: Select the option Outlook Data File (.pst).

Step 10: Click on Next.
Step 11: Specify the location of the .pst file.
Step 12: Select the option Import.
Step 13: Click on Next.

Step 14: Choose the items you want to import.

Step 15: Click on Finish.

After completing the steps, you can use Outlook with all your data intact.

By following the instructions above, you have successfully resolved common issues with Outlook .pst and .ost data files. To prevent any future mishaps with Outlook, it's advisable to regularly back up your Outlook 2010, 2007, 2013, 2016 data to ensure the safety of your data. Wishing you all the best.