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How to Fix Outlook Data File?

If you are having trouble with your Outlook data file and are looking for quick and easy ways to fix it, then look no further! In this article, we will discuss the different ways you can fix an Outlook data file, ranging from easy DIY solutions to more complex technical solutions. From understanding the common causes of Outlook data file errors to troubleshooting and restoring the file, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to get your Outlook data file back in working order. So let’s get started and learn how to fix Outlook data file today!

How to Fix Outlook Data File?

Fix Outlook Data File in Five Easy Steps

Outlook is a powerful email client, but when the Outlook Data File (OST or PST) gets corrupted, it can be difficult to fix. Fortunately, Microsoft provides a set of tools that can help repair a damaged Outlook Data File. In this article, we will show you how to use these tools to fix a corrupted Outlook Data File.

The first step is to identify the Outlook Data File that is damaged. To do this, open Outlook and go to the File tab. In the left-hand pane, you will see a list of Outlook Data Files. Select the Outlook Data File that you suspect is damaged and click the Repair button. This will open the Outlook Data File Repair wizard.

The next step is to choose the type of repair you want to perform. Microsoft provides two types of repair: Scan and Repair, and Recover Data from Offline Folders. Scan and Repair is the most common type of repair. It scans the Outlook Data File for any errors and attempts to repair them. Recover Data from Offline Folders is more advanced and can recover data that is not accessible in the Outlook Data File.

Scan and Repair Outlook Data File

Once you have chosen the type of repair you want to perform, click the Scan button. This will start the repair process. Depending on the size of the Outlook Data File, this process may take some time. Once the repair process is complete, you will be notified if any errors were found and repaired.

If any errors were found, you can then choose to repair them or ignore them. If you choose to repair them, Outlook will attempt to repair the errors. If the repair is successful, you should be able to access the data in the Outlook Data File. If the repair is not successful, you will need to restore the data from backup.

Recover Data from Offline Folders

If the Outlook Data File is inaccessible due to corruption, you can try using the Recover Data from Offline Folders option. This option will attempt to recover any data that is stored in an offline folder. To use this option, click the Recover Data from Offline Folders button.

This will open the Recover Data from Offline Folders wizard. You will then need to select the folder you want to recover data from. Once you have selected the folder, click the Recover button. This will start the recovery process. Depending on the size of the folder, this process may take some time.

Once the recovery process is complete, you will be notified if any data was successfully recovered. If any data was successfully recovered, it will be saved to a new Outlook Data File. You can then access this data in the new Outlook Data File.

Restore from Backup

If the Outlook Data File is corrupted and cannot be repaired or recovered, you will need to restore the data from backup. To do this, first make sure you have a recent backup of the Outlook Data File. If you do not have a recent backup, you can try using a third-party data recovery tool to recover the data.

Once you have a backup of the Outlook Data File, open Outlook and go to the File tab. In the left-hand pane, you will see a list of Outlook Data Files. Select the Outlook Data File you want to restore and click the Restore button. This will open the Restore Outlook Data File wizard.

Final Steps

In the Restore Outlook Data File wizard, select the backup file you want to restore and then click the Restore button. This will start the restore process. Depending on the size of the Outlook Data File, this process may take some time. Once the restore process is complete, you should be able to access the data in the Outlook Data File.

Once the data is restored, you should run the Scan and Repair tool again to make sure the Outlook Data File is not corrupted. You should also run the Recover Data from Offline Folders tool to make sure any data stored in an offline folder is accessible.

Conclusion

Outlook Data Files can become corrupted and inaccessible due to a variety of reasons. Fortunately, Microsoft provides a set of tools that can help repair and recover a damaged Outlook Data File. In this article, we have shown you how to use these tools to fix a corrupted Outlook Data File.

Top 6 Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Outlook Data File?

An Outlook Data File (.pst) is a file format used to store emails, contacts, calendar events, notes, tasks, and other items in an Outlook profile. It stores this data locally, giving users a backup of their Outlook data. It is important to keep the Outlook Data File in good health to ensure smooth functioning of Outlook.

What are the Steps to Fix Outlook Data File?

The steps to fix Outlook Data File are as follows:
1. Open Outlook and go to File > Account Settings > Account Settings.
2. Select the Data Files tab and click Open File Location.
3. Select the .pst file that needs to be repaired.
4. Go to File > Open & Export > Open Outlook Data File.
5. Select Repair.
6. Follow the instructions provided by the repair tool.

What is the Inbox Repair Tool?

The Inbox Repair Tool, also known as scanpst.exe, is a Microsoft utility that can be used to diagnose and repair errors in Outlook Data Files. It is a built-in tool that can be used to repair minor corruption in Outlook Data Files without the need to purchase any third-party software.

What are the Limitations of the Inbox Repair Tool?

The Inbox Repair Tool has its limitations. It can only repair minor corruption in Outlook Data Files. It can’t fix major corruption such as deleted emails, deleted contacts, etc. It may also not be able to repair certain types of corruption, such as password-protected files or errors caused by hardware failure.

What Alternatives to the Inbox Repair Tool are Available?

If the Inbox Repair Tool is unable to repair the Outlook Data File, then there are several third-party software programs available that can be used to repair the file. These programs can be used to repair more serious corruption, as well as recover deleted emails, contacts, and other data. They often come with more advanced features such as password protection, data recovery, and more.

How Can I Make Sure Outlook Data File Stays Healthy?

There are several steps that can be taken to ensure the Outlook Data File remains healthy:
1. Make sure the file is regularly backed up.
2. Use the Scanpst utility to check the file for errors.
3. Make sure the file is not too large.
4. Make sure the Outlook profile is not over-crowded with too many emails.
5. Avoid opening large attachments in Outlook.
6. Upgrade to the latest version of Outlook.

How to Repair Corrupt Outlook Pst or Ost files in Office 2019 | 2021 | Repair Microsoft 365 Apps.

In conclusion, fixing an Outlook Data File requires patience and knowledge of the program itself. It is important to understand the different types of Outlook Data Files, what causes them to become corrupted, and the steps you must take to repair them. With the help of this guide, you can effectively and safely repair your Outlook Data File and get back to sending and receiving emails.