How to Fix ‘PST File is Not an Outlook Data File’ Error?

Summary: Often users put queries like “How do I fix the Outlook PST is not an Outlook data file PST error?” This is among other common issues of Outlook that arise due to corrupt or inaccessible PST files. Outlook PST contains complete mailbox data, contacts, and calendars, thus encountering errors like this can be a serious concern. Nevertheless, this blog will guide you to some of the most effective methods that can help you resolve Outlook PST file errors. If looking for a quick and secure solution, prefer Outlook PST Repair Software in the first place. Download Now   Purchase Now

What is “PST File is Not an Outlook Data File” Error?

This error usually occurs when MS Outlook cannot recognize your PST as a valid Outlook data file. Consequently, Outlook faces difficulty accessing the file. Also, it restricts access to emails, contacts, calendars, and tasks stored in the concerned PST. The error shows a message that says:

“The file <path> is not a valid Outlook data file (PST).”

Now, you must be wondering, why such an error is caused. There can be multiple reasons causing the PST file error:

• The first and foremost reason for PST error is corruption within the file. Sudden Outlook shutdown, system crash, or malware attack can corrupt PST data, making files unreadable.
• PST file incompatibility can also be a cause. If you have added PST created by a different version of Outlook, it may result in incompatibility in your current Outlook.
• If you have moved or deleted the PST file from its original location, Outlook cannot locate that file. In addition, if the file path is incorrect or the file has been misplaced.
• Outlook profile stores your account settings, preferences, and many important data. A corrupt or faulty Outlook profile may lead to such a PST file error. 
• PST files have a set size limit (especially for older versions). If the file size limit exceeds, it may result in PST file corruption, thus Outlook says PST File is not an Outlook Data File.

You must understand the real cause of the Outlook error, before concluding any solution. This helps find the most suitable methods to resolve the error. Experts also recommend that one must find out the real cause of such an error and then try any troubleshooting steps.

How do I Fix the Outlook PST is Not an Outlook Data File PST Error?

Here we will discuss multiple troubleshooting methods to deal with this Outlook PST file error. Each method discussed is to address different root causes of the error effectively. Therefore, identify the real cause and choose an appropriate method.

1. Verify File’s Read-Only Attribute

If your PST file is set to “read-only”, this may prevent Outlook from accessing the PST file. Here are the steps you need to follow to disable the attribute:

1. Firstly, right-click on the PST file.
2. Select Properties.
3. In the General tab, uncheck the “Read-only” checkbox (if not done already).
4. Click on Apply, then OK.
5. Restart Outlook and attempt to access the file.

2. Copy PST to a New Location

Sometimes, moving the PST file to a different location can bypass potential access restrictions. Do as the steps direct:

1. Locate the PST file on its current drive or folder.
2. Copy it to a local folder, such as the Documents folder.
3. Open Outlook, navigate to File > Open. Select the copied PST file.

3. Check the PST File Size

As mentioned earlier, oversized PST files may become corrupt or unstable. This may lead to PST access issues. Here are the steps to be followed:

1. Check the file size of the PST file.
2. If it exceeds 50GB, consider archiving or splitting the file into smaller parts.

You can also remove duplicate emails using Outlook’s cleanup tools or a professional Outlook Duplicate Remover for this task.

If still Outlook says PST File is not an Outlook Data File, update Outlook to the latest version.

4. Update MS Outlook to the Latest Version

Outdated Outlook can often cause compatibility issues. Therefore, it is mandatory to keep Outlook up-to-date with the latest version for a better user experience. Do as the steps follow:

1. Open MS Outlook. Go to File > Office Account.
2. Click on the Update options. Select Update Now from the available options.
3. If the update fails, manually download the latest version from Microsoft’s website.
4. Install the latest version and restart Outlook. Check if the issue persists.

5. Check for Disk Errors

Another major reason for PST files being unreadable is disk errors or bad sectors. Therefore, you must check for such disk errors and resolve them as soon as possible:

1. Firstly, open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Run the command: chkdsk C: /f /r (replace C: with the appropriate drive letter). Tap on Enter.
3. After the process is completed, restart the computer.
4. Open Outlook and try accessing the file again.

6. Create a New Outlook Profile

If your Outlook profile gets corrupt, this can also prevent Outlook from accessing PST files. In that case, you have to create a new Outlook profile. Follow the process given:

1. Open Control Panel > User Accounts > Mail.
2. Mail Setup dialog box opens. Click on Show Profiles and then Add.
3. Follow the prompts to configure a new email account.
4. Set your new Outlook profile as default. Next, remove the old profile.
5. Finally, restart Outlook and import the PST file.

7. Repair Outlook PST Using ScanPST.exe (Inbox Repair Tool)

Outlook provides a built-in utility to repair corrupt PST files and is called ScanPST.exe or Inbox Repair Tool. You need to locate ScanPST.exe and run it. Follow the given steps:

1. Locate ScanPST.exe in the Outlook installation directory.
2. Run the tool, browse the problematic PST file, and start the scan.
3. Make sure you have created a backup PST file before repairs.
4. Click Repair and follow the on-screen prompts.
5. Once repaired, you get a notification “Repair Complete”.
6. Re-open Outlook and check if the file is accessible.

However, this tool might fail sometimes, especially when PST files are severely corrupt. Therefore, professional recovery software is suggested for all types of PST file corruption and damage. Wondering, which is the best? Let us explore.

8. Best Professional Software to Repair Corrupt PST File

You might face many various instances where you need to Fix PST File Error When Scanpst.exe Fails. There comes the Aryson PST Repair Tool. One may consider this software to fix large and oversized PST files without any hassle or complexity. Users get to check recovered PST file data and they can choose what to restore for further use. This software is fully featured with multiple recovery modes to fix all minor and severe corruptions. Furthermore, it lets users restore PST data into other formats like MBOX, DBX, MSG, and more.

Steps to Fix ‘Outlook PST is Not an Outlook Data File’ Error Using the Tool:

1. Install the PST Repair Tool and run it as an administrator. 
2. Add the corrupt PST file from your system.
3. Choose an appropriate recovery mode and click Ok.
4. The tool scans and shows a preview of recovered data.
5. Select folders to save and click on Save. 
6. Now, choose a saving format, say Save as MBOX. 
7. Apply date filter if needed and choose saving folder.
8. Click Ok and the saving process begins. 

Hence, this is how you can fix inaccessible PST file errors with minimal effort. The software is compatible with all Windows OS and does not require Outlook installation for recovery. 

Conclusion

This blog discussed all the possible solutions to your query “How do I fix the Outlook PST is not an Outlook data file PST error?” Sometimes, minor troubleshooting steps can help you resolve such Outlook errors. However, if the manual procedure fails, go for a recommended professional approach that is secure and 100% reliable. Make sure you figure out the real cause of the error before coming to a conclusion.

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