How Do I Repair OST File in Outlook 365?

If you’re an avid user of Microsoft Outlook, you may have encountered issues with your offline storage table (OST) file. OST files are an essential component of Outlook, allowing you to access your emails, contacts, and calendar data even when you’re not connected to the internet. 

However, what happens when your OST file becomes corrupt or damaged? This can be a frustrating experience, as it can prevent you from accessing your important data and disrupt your workflow. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the steps you can take to repair an OST file in Outlook 365. So, let’s get started!

Some Precautions to Prevent OST File Corruption or Damage 

Preventing OST file corruption or damage is crucial to ensuring smooth and uninterrupted access to your Outlook data. Here are some precautions you can take to minimize the risk of OST file issues: 

• Avoid abrupt shutdowns: Abruptly shutting down your computer or closing Outlook while it’s synchronizing with the Exchange server can lead to OST file corruption. Always close Outlook properly and allow it to complete synchronization before shutting down your computer.
• Use reliable hardware. Faulty hardware, such as a failing hard drive or unstable power supply, can cause OST file corruption. Invest in reliable hardware and ensure regular maintenance to prevent any hardware-related issues.
• Keep your Outlook and Exchange servers updated. Keeping your Outlook and Exchange servers updated with the latest patches and updates can fix known issues and vulnerabilities that could potentially lead to OST file corruption.
• Avoid oversized OST files: OST files have a size limit, and when they exceed that limit, it can cause corruption. Regularly clean up your mailbox by archiving or deleting unnecessary emails, and manage your mailbox size to prevent oversized OST files.
• Use a stable internet connection. Interruptions in internet connectivity during synchronization can lead to OST file corruption. Ensure a stable internet connection while using Outlook to prevent any potential data loss.
• Use caution with third-party add-ins: Third-party add-ins in Outlook can sometimes conflict with the OST file, causing corruption. Be cautious while installing and using third-party add-ins, and ensure they are from trusted sources.
• Perform regular backups: regularly back up your OST file to a secure location so you have a copy of your data in case of any unexpected OST file issues.

How Do I Repair an OST File in Outlook 365?

1) Use the Inbox Repair Tool (SCANPST.EXE)

• Close Microsoft Outlook and ensure it’s not running in the background.
• Open the File Explorer and navigate to the location of the OST file. The default location is: C:\Users<username>\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Outlook\
• Locate and run the SCANPST.EXE tool, which is a built-in repair tool provided by Microsoft.
• Click on the “Browse” button and select the OST file that you want to repair.
• Click on the “Start” button to initiate the scanning and repair process. The tool will analyze and repair any errors in the OST file.
• Once the repair process is complete, click on the “OK” button to finish.

2) Create a New OST File 

• Close Microsoft Outlook and ensure it’s not running in the background.
• Open the Control Panel on your computer and go to “Mail” or “Mail (32-bit)”.
• In the Mail Setup window, click on the “Show Profiles” button.
• Select your Outlook profile and click on the “Properties” button.
• In the Email Accounts window, select the Exchange account with the problematic OST file and click on the “Change” button.
• Uncheck the “Use Cached Exchange Mode” option and click on the “Next” button.
• Click on the “Finish” button to close the Email Accounts window.
• Back in the Mail Setup window, click on the “Data Files” button.
• Click on the “Add” button to create a new OST file.
• Choose a location to save the new OST file and provide a name for it. Click on the “OK” button.
• Close all the windows and restart Microsoft Outlook. The new OST file will be automatically created and synchronized with the Exchange server.

3) Contact Microsoft Support. 

If you’re unable to repair your OST file using the above methods or if you’re not confident in performing the repairs yourself, you can contact Microsoft Support for assistance. Microsoft has a dedicated support team that can provide guidance and help you repair your OST file in Outlook 365.

FAQs 

Q1: How can an OST file get corrupted or damaged? 

Answer: OST files in Outlook 365 can get corrupted or damaged due to various reasons, such as unexpected system shutdowns, software or hardware issues, virus or malware attacks, improper Outlook termination, large file sizes, and network connectivity issues. 

Q2: Can I repair an OST file in Outlook 365 without any tools? 

Answer: Yes, you can try repairing an OST file in Outlook 365 using built-in tools like ScanOST (in earlier versions of Outlook) or OST Integrity Check Tool (OSTST.EXE) in newer versions of Outlook. However, these tools may not always be effective in repairing complex corruption issues. 

Q3: What are the risks of repairing an OST file? 

Answer: Repairing an OST file can involve risks such as potential data loss or further corruption if not done correctly. It’s crucial to backup the OST file before attempting any repairs and follow instructions carefully to minimize the risks. 

Q4: Are there any third-party tools available for repairing OST files? 

Answer: Yes, there are several third-party tools available on the market that claim to repair OST files in Outlook 365. I would recommend Regain OST Recovery tool. This tool comes with advanced features and capabilities for repairing complex OST file corruption issues. 

Q5) What should I do if I’m unable to repair my OST file? 

Answer: If you’re unable to repair your OST file using the built-in tools or third-party tools, it’s best to contact Microsoft Support or seek professional assistance. Microsoft has a dedicated support team that can provide guidance and help with OST file repairs in Outlook 365.

Conclusion

Repairing an OST file in Outlook 365 is crucial to ensuring smooth functioning and access to mailbox data. While there are built-in tools like ScanOST for OST Integrity Check Tool that can help with simple repairs, more complex issues may require third-party tools or professional assistance. Regain OST Recovery tool embedded with feature to convert ost to pst file as well.

It’s important to take precautions to prevent OST file corruption or damage, such as avoiding abrupt system shutdowns, keeping software updated, and maintaining a stable network connection.