Office 365 Error: Outlook PST File Cannot Be Found

Key Notes

  • Regularly clean up your mailbox to prevent PST corruption.
  • Utilize the built-in ScanPST tool for repairing PST files.
  • Create new PST files to resolve persistent errors.

Resolving the Outlook PST Cannot Be Found Error: A Comprehensive Guide

When your Outlook struggles to locate the PST file, it can hinder productivity and disrupt your workflow. This guide explores essential steps to fix the ‘Outlook PST cannot be found’ error—helping you regain access to your important Outlook data.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix the Outlook PST Issue

Step 1: Assess Your Outlook Storage Space

The PST error could be triggered by excessive or unnecessary data in your mailbox. Start by cleaning up your Outlook inbox using the built-in Mailbox Cleanup tool. Click on the File menu, head to Info, select the Tools dropdown, and choose Mailbox Cleanup. Follow the prompts to eliminate outdated or junk files.

Step 2: Use ScanPST Tool to Repair the PST File

Next, utilize the Outlook Inbox Repair Tool (ScanPST.exe) to fix your PST file. Navigate to C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office\ or C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\root\Office16\ to locate the ScanPST.exe file. Launch the tool, select your PST file, check the Make backup of scanned file before repairing option, and hit Repair. Restart Outlook to see if the issue is resolved.

Step 3: Create a New PST File

If repairs do not resolve the issue, creating a new PST file may be necessary. Press Win + R, type control panel, and hit Enter. Set the view to Large icons and select Mail (Microsoft Outlook). Click on Data Files, hit Add, name the new PST file, and click OK. Set this new file as the default and restart Outlook.

Step 4: Repair the Outlook Application

In some cases, the error may stem from issues within the Outlook application itself. To repair it, shut down Outlook, open the Settings app with Win + I, navigate to Apps, and locate the Microsoft Office app. Select it, click the three-dot menu, choose Modify, and initiate either Quick Repair or Online Repair. Restart Outlook to see if the problem persists.

Step 5: Modify the Registry Settings

If a data overload is causing the error, consider reducing the cache size for PST files. Press Win + R, type regedit, and navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Office\16.0\Outlook\PST. Right-click in the right pane, create a new DWORD (32-Bit) named UseLegacyCacheSize, set its value to 1, and click OK. Reboot your computer and check Outlook.

Additional Tips for Outlook Users

  • Always verify that you have a backup of important PST files before making changes.
  • Consider using third-party recovery tools if ScanPST fails.
  • Regularly update Outlook to benefit from performance improvements and bug fixes.

Summary

In summary, the ‘Outlook PST cannot be found’ error can hinder your email productivity. By assessing your Outlook storage, utilizing the ScanPST tool, creating a new PST file, repairing the Outlook app, and modifying registry settings, you can effectively address this issue and restore normal functionality.

Conclusion

Encountering issues with Outlook can be frustrating, but following the outlined steps can lead you to a solution. Take action today to rectify the ‘Outlook PST cannot be found’ error and enhance your experience with Microsoft Outlook.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What causes the PST file to not be found?

The error can arise from corrupted PST files, issues with the Outlook application, or excessive data within the mailbox.

How can I repair a PST file?

You can repair a PST file using the ScanPST tool, which is included with Outlook, or by creating a new PST file and setting it as default.