Resolved!- Outlook data file cannot be open error

Did you get an error message stating the Outlook data file cannot be opened? If yes, then just relax and apply these simple techniques that will fix this problem immediately. This blog is specially designed for just the users like you who get stuck in this situation and have no idea what to do next?

The Outlook is one of the trustworthy email clients that offers many features to its users. Still, it has some cons that make it a little inconvenient among users. Although there are different kinds of errors that occur in Outlook. But we will talk about the issue of Outlook not being able to access your personal data file.

If you are getting this error then it simply means that Outlook is unable to open the PST file, as its elements have might get corrupted .

Fastest solution to repair PST files- Outlook PST Repair

Manual procedures to repair PST file

Method 1. Use the SCANPST.EXE tool

Whenever the Outlook data file is unable to open, then it confirms that there are some issues with it. In this situation, users usually opt for a SCANPST.EXE aka the Inbox Repair tool to diagnose and fix the data file issues. Uses can use it by using the following procedure mentioned below.

User can opt for one of the following steps after quitting Outlook:

• Visit the C:\Program Files.
• Or, move to C:\Program Files (x86).
• Input the SCANPST.EXE in the Search box.

Point to remember: users must find the SCANPST.EXE in both the folders that were discussed in the first step. Use the following Outlook version to search your way to any one of the following folders.

Outlook 2016: C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\root\Office16

Outlook 2013: C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\Office15

Outlook 2010: C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\Office14

Outlook 2007: C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\Office12

Now, launch SCANPST.EXE.

User will view a box labeled "Enter the name of the file you want to scan". Now, users can either choose the Browse option for choosing the file or can type the .pst file’s name directly to get examined by the tool.

Hit on "Start" to initiate the scanning process.

Point to remember: When the scanning is going on, the user will get a new log file automatically. Now, pick to use the current log file for appending the results or by tapping on Options and selecting the "not create a log file" option to stop the generation of the new log file.

During the scanning process if any error occurs in the .pst file, choose the Repair button to initiate the repair of the errors.

Point to remember: While the repair process continues, a backup file is generated through the scan. The location or default name of this backup file can be altered by entering an alternate name in the box labeled "Enter name of backup file". Select a different backup file through the Browse option.

Finally, start Outlook by the account that is associated with the repaired PST file once the repair process gets done.

Whenever this error occurs, the user is unable to send or receive emails and Outlook will display the above error on the screen. This Outlook data file cannot be opened, error indicates to the users that their Outlook profile is corrupted. One can use different measures to repair There are multiple ways to fix this issue and get Outlook to recognize the data files.

Method 2. Alter The Mail Delivery Location

Users can add a new data file and arrange Outlook to store your emails. In this way, a fresh data file for Outlook will be generated. And, this will repair the “Outlook data file cannot be opened” error.

• Firstly, open the Start Menu and start Outlook.
• Then, tap on the File tab located at the top of your screen.
• From the options in the left sidebar, choose Info. Tap on the Account Settings on the right-hand side pane and choose the Account Settings again.
• Now, the user will automatically enter in the Email tab. Next, change to the Data Files tab, and to add a new data file hit the Add button.
• Here, Outlook will ask the location to save the file. Select a location, key-in a name for the file, and save the file hit OK.
• If Outlook even now, is using your old data file to save your messages. Users can switch this by setting your new data file as the default data file. Choose your newly generated file in the list and hit Set as Default at the top.

Method 3. Arrange the Inbox folder

Users can use this approach to repair PST file. They just have to follow some instructions that are discussed below.

• First of all, move to the File > Account Settings > Account Settings.
• Then, alter the Change Folder and hit the + next to the folder name to expand it.
• Hit on Inbox and tap on OK.
• Finally, close the Account Settings and tap on the Send and Receive button.

Many users advise fixing this issue by choosing a different folder and saving changes. And then, choose the original Inbox folder and save your changes again.

Or, users can create and utilize a different folder to store their emails. If one follows this carefully then, delete that folder and inspect if the issue still exists or not. Although this method is not that effective, still users can try.

So, these were some manual approaches that one can use if they counter Outlook data file cannot be opened. There are some limitations and drawbacks of the manual procedures that hold back the users to trust it completely.

If the user is from a non-technical background or beginner and is not comfortable with the manual procedures. Users also fear the data loss that might occur during performing the manual approach.

Then, they can go for the third-party solutions or Outlook PST Repair tool that will do the same thing quickly. Users can go for the Outlook PST Repair that can easily repair corrupt PST files. The utility can support PST Files that are generated by MS Outlook 2016, 2013, 2010, 2007, 2003, 2002, etc.

Last Remark -

Users can fully rely on these manual approaches if their Outlook data file cannot be opened. If they have any issue while operating a manual approach or are not interested. Then, they can go for an alternative approach.