Outlook users have a common problem: OST files cannot be opened. This happens most often during Reinstalling or Upgrading. This blog will provide the best solution for this problem. We also discuss the main causes of this problem. So, let us begin.
OST files are also known as Offline Data Table. They store offline copies of all online data. This file allows you to work without a server connection.
Let’s look at some possible causes.
Reasons – Why OST File Cannot Be Opened
Outlook can have many causes. Outlook data files can also be a problem. It is important to identify the root cause of the problem. You will find the reasons Outlook can’t open OST files below. These are important.
- It is possible to have many OST errors caused by the synchronization between OST files, Exchange servers. We recommend that you verify your network connection.
- If your hard drive has bad sectors, OST files may not be accessible.
- Reliable antivirus software is important as malware and viruses can sometimes also cause damage to OST files.
- The file could be corrupted if we work with it and then there is a power outage.
- If Outlook terminates unexpectedly, it is possible for OST files become corrupted or inaccessible.
These are the main reasons why Outlook cannot open OST files. Make appropriate changes to address them. It is now time to fix the problem.
How to Resolve the ‘OST File Could Not Be Opened Manually’ Error?
Most Outlook errors can be fixed by either making the necessary changes to the configuration settings, or by repairing corrupt Outlook data files. Both segments will be covered to fix the problem.
The Manual method is any approach that doesn’t require third-party software and involves only DIY steps to solve the problem. This approach is best for those who have an excellent understanding of technical concepts.
A better approach is available for both beginners and more experienced users. Professional or automated solutions can be a more effective and advanced way to solve your problem. The professional tool will be discussed later in this article.
These are the most popular methods to use when Outlook OST files cannot be opened Windows 10.
#1. Forcefully Stop the Outlook Working
- To open the task manager, go to your computer taskbar.
- Select the Details tab row 1.
- Search for names such as Communicator, Lync or Outlook and click on the End task.
If your Microsoft Outlook Outlook OST is still not opening, then you can try the following alternative method to fix the problem.
#2. Disable the Cached Exchange Mode From MS Outlook
We mentioned that Outlook may not be able to open OST files. This could indicate that someone is trying to modify the OST content. By disabling the Exchange cache mode, you can prevent unauthorised access to your valuable data.
It will cause a disconnect between the server and the email client. Follow these steps to disable Outlook cached exchange mode.
- Go to the Panel.
- To move forward, click on User accounts.
- Click on Mail (Microsoft Outlook 32-bit)
- Choose the Email Accounts.
- Next, click on the Email tab.
- Hit the
Note: If you don’t have a Microsoft Account, then you will not be able to follow the steps below.
- The Cached exchange Mode option will be found on the next page. Disable the tick mark. To continue, click Next.
- Click on the Finish button in the final step.
- Once you have completed the process, restart your computer and attempt to access the OST file.
These solutions will resolve the problem if your OST file is not opening. What if you still have the problem?
What to do if the problem still exist?
You can resolve .ost file problems by using the following two methods. These solutions won’t work if the file is corrupted. In that case you need to repair corrupt OST file.
Based on how the problem is being solved, there are two options: Automated and Manual.
SCANPST.exe will be included in the former method. It can repair minor corruptions and is located in the root folder. Let’s see how we can use it when Outlook 2016 is corrupt.
- Find scanpst.exe within the root folder in MS Outlook.
- Double-click it to launch the application.
- Browse the file and scan for file corruption.
- Click on the Repair button after that to fix the file corruption.
These steps will restore Outlook OST files to their original state. This method can only be used for minor corruptions, however, as we have already mentioned. Professional software is required to repair corrupt files.
Professional Tool to Repair the OST file can’t be opened Error
SoftMagnat OST Recovery Tool can be used to recover all data from damaged Outlook files. This tool is an excellent alternative to SCANPST.exe, as it can be used to repair any file that has been severely corrupted. The software comes with the most recent and advanced features. This tool is suitable for all Outlook users.
Conclusions
This blog will discuss why your OST file can’t be opened and how you can access your mailbox data. There are many ways to fix the problem depending on the cause. If your Outlook data file is corrupted, causing .ost not to be opened error, then use OST recovery tool may be the best option.