How to Fix the “OST File Cannot Be Opened” Error in Outlook

Are you facing an issue where your OST file won’t open in Outlook? This is a common problem, especially during reinstallation or upgrading processes. In this guide, we’ll explore the best solutions to resolve this error and dive into the common causes behind it. Let’s get started!

What Is an OST File?

OST files, or Offline Data Tables, store a local copy of your email account data so you can access your emails even without a connection to the server. However, these files sometimes encounter issues that prevent Outlook from opening them.

Reasons Why the OST File Cannot Be Opened

There are several reasons why you might encounter this issue. It’s important to identify the root cause to apply the appropriate fix. Below are the most common causes for OST file errors:

• Synchronization issues: Problems syncing your OST file with the Exchange server can lead to errors. Check your network connection to rule this out.
• Hard drive issues: If your hard drive has bad sectors, your OST file may become inaccessible.
• Malware or viruses: Ensure your system has reliable antivirus software, as malware can corrupt OST files.
• Power outages: A sudden power cut while working with the OST file can lead to file corruption.
• Unexpected Outlook termination: If Outlook crashes unexpectedly, the OST file may become damaged or inaccessible.

Once you understand the cause, you can move on to fixing the issue.

How to Fix the ‘OST File Could Not Be Opened’ Error

There are two primary ways to resolve the “OST file cannot be opened” error: manual methods and professional tools. The manual methods work best if you have some technical knowledge, while professional tools are ideal for users of any skill level.

Let’s first explore some common manual solutions.

Method 1: Forcefully Stop Outlook from Running

One quick fix is to stop Outlook from running in the background through the Task Manager. Here’s how:

1. Right-click the taskbar and open Task Manager.
2. Click on the Details tab.
3. Look for processes like Communicator, Lync, or Outlook.
4. Select the process and click End Task.

If this method doesn’t solve the issue, move on to the next solution.

Method 2: Disable Cached Exchange Mode in Outlook

Sometimes, the issue occurs because Outlook is trying to modify the OST file. Disabling Cached Exchange Mode can prevent this conflict and allow you to access your data. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Control Panel.
2. Select User Accounts and then Mail (Microsoft Outlook 32-bit).
3. Choose Email Accounts, then click the Email tab.
4. Click on the account name and go to Change.
5. Uncheck Cached Exchange Mode and click Next.
6. Click Finish, then restart your computer and try accessing the OST file again.

These manual steps should help resolve the issue for most users. However, if the problem persists, it may indicate that the OST file is corrupt.

What to Do if the Problem Still Exists

If the above manual solutions don’t work, the issue might be a corrupted OST file. At this point, there are two methods to try: the built-in repair tool SCANPST.exe, or a professional recovery tool for more severe corruption.

Using SCANPST.exe to Repair Minor OST File Corruption

SCANPST.exe, or the Inbox Repair Tool, can fix minor OST file corruptions. Here’s how to use it:

1. Locate SCANPST.exe in the root folder of your MS Outlook installation.
2. Double-click the file to open the application.
3. Browse for the OST file you want to repair and scan it for corruption.
4. Click Repair to fix any detected issues.

While this method works for minor file corruptions, more severe issues require a professional recovery tool.

Professional Tool to Repair Corrupted OST Files

For heavily corrupted files, the SoftMagnat OST Recovery Tool is a powerful alternative to SCANPST.exe. This software can recover all your data from damaged OST files, restoring access to your mailbox. It’s designed with advanced features and is easy to use, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users.

Conclusion

This guide covered why your OST file might not open in Outlook and provided several solutions to fix the issue. Whether you opt for manual methods or a professional recovery tool, you now have the knowledge to address the problem. If you’re dealing with file corruption, the SoftMagnat OST Recovery Tool is your best bet for a quick and efficient recovery.

FAQs

1. What is an OST file in Outlook?
An OST file is an Offline Data Table that stores a local copy of your emails, allowing you to access them without an internet connection.

2. Why can’t I open my OST file in Outlook?
Common reasons include synchronization issues, corrupted files, hard drive problems, and malware.

3. How can I fix an OST file that won’t open?
You can try stopping Outlook in Task Manager, disabling Cached Exchange Mode, or using SCANPST.exe to repair minor file corruptions.

4. What if manual methods don’t work?
If manual fixes fail, you’ll need to use a professional tool like the SoftMagnat OST Recovery Tool to repair the corrupted OST file.

5. Can SCANPST.exe repair all OST file issues?
No, SCANPST.exe can only repair minor corruptions. For more severe cases, professional recovery software is required.