How to Repair Outlook PST file 2019, 2016, 2013?

If you're a Microsoft Outlook user, you know how crucial this application is for managing our day-to-day emails, appointments, contacts, calendars, and tasks. The power of Outlook lies in its storage system, using a special file type known as PST or Personal Storage Table files. These files don't just store data; they also act as an effective backup mechanism, letting us transfer emails and other data from one PST file to another.

However, as with many things in the tech world, PST files are not immune to issues. They can become corrupted, making the stored data unreachable. But don't let this alarm you. This post is designed to help you understand these problems and how to navigate them. In the following sections, we'll explore the reasons behind PST file corruption and provide comprehensive solutions to repair Outlook PST files.

Why Do PST Files Get Damaged?

PST files, while incredibly useful, can be sensitive. Disturbances during file updates can cause corruption, but this isn't the only way these files can become damaged. Let's delve into the common causes:

1. Unstable Network Connections: If your network connection isn't reliable, data flow interruptions can occur while Outlook is syncing with its server, leading to file corruption.
2. Outlook Shutdown: If you close Outlook abruptly, especially during a read/write operation on a PST file, the file may become corrupt.
3. Malware and Viruses: Cyber threats such as viruses and malware are well-known culprits behind file corruption, including PST files.
4. Power Interruptions: A sudden power loss while Outlook is running may result in a corrupted PST file.
5. Hard Drive Issues: Your computer's hard drive might have bad sectors which can damage the files stored within, including PST files.
6. Oversized PST files: Earlier Outlook versions (2002 and prior) set a PST file size limit of 2GB. Any file exceeding this limit can become unstable and eventually get corrupted.
7. Software Problems: Sometimes, the issue isn't with the file, but with Outlook itself. Software crashes or bugs can lead to a corrupted PST file.

How to Repair damaged PST?

If you encounter a corrupted PST file, don't panic. It's important to take a systematic approach to mitigate the damage and restore your data. Always remember to back up your PST file before initiating any repair process. This action ensures that you still have your data even if the repair process doesn't go as planned. There are two primary methods to repair a damaged PST file:

Method 1: Repair Outlook PST File Using Outlook's Inbox Repair Tool (SCANPST.EXE)

Microsoft provides a built-in tool within Outlook known as the Inbox Repair Tool or SCANPST.EXE. This utility can diagnose and repair errors in your PST file. Here's a simple guide to using it:

1. Make sure to close MS Outlook.
2. Go to one of the following file locations:
   • Outlook 2019: C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\root\Office16
   • 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
3. Run SCANPST.EXE.
4. Click 'Browse' and choose the damaged PST file.
5. Click 'Start' to begin the scan.
6. If the tool finds errors, you can repair them by clicking on 'Repair'.
7. After that, start Outlook with the profile attached to the PST file.

This tool is perfect for minor issues. However, if your PST file has major problems, it might not be effective.

Method 2: Repair Outlook PST using SysCurve Outlook PST Repair Tool

In cases where the Inbox Repair Tool can't fix the PST file, consider SysCurve Outlook PST Repair Tool to repair damaged PST file. This third-party tool is designed to handle severe corruption issues and comes loaded with advanced features. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Download and install the SysCurve Outlook PST Recovery tool.
2. Open it and click on "Add PST Files". Choose the PST files you need to repair, then click OK.
3. The tool will load your file. You can then click on any item to preview its contents.
4. Select the folder you wish to repair, right-click on it, and choose "Save all files in Outlook PST". Then, click 'Next'.
5. Choose "Export to Create New PST File" and pick a location to save the new PST file.
6. Finally, click on 'Next' and 'Finish' to complete the process.

Other helpful features

1. Repairing Damaged PST Files: This tool can fix seriously damaged or inaccessible PST files that other tools may not be able to handle.
2. Email and Attachment Previews: Before you convert the PST file, you can preview the emails and their attachments.
3. Flexible Data Saving Options: Once the PST file is repaired, you can save the data in various formats. These include PST, EML, MSG, HTML, and more, allowing you to choose the format that best suits your needs.
4. PST Importation: You can import your repaired PST files directly to Office 365 and Live Exchange. This feature simplifies the process of moving your data to these platforms.
5. Maintains Folder Structure: The tool keeps the original folder structure of your PST files intact during the repair process, making it easier for you to locate your data after recovery.
6. Selective Conversion: If you only want to recover certain items from a PST file, this tool allows you to do so. It gives you the freedom to choose which data you want to convert.
7. Password Protection: To enhance the security of your PST files, you can set a password using this tool.
8. PST File Management: If you have a very large PST file, the tool can split it into smaller files for easier handling and better Outlook performance.
9. Trial Version: Using Outlook PST Repair tool, you can convert and export the first 50 items per folder.
10. Wide Compatibility: This tool works well with all versions of Outlook and Windows, ensuring that you can use it regardless of your software version.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Final Word

Handling PST files may initially seem challenging, but armed with the right information, it becomes a much simpler process. This post has given you insights into why PST file corruption happens and walked you through the best ways to repair and retrieve your data. With this knowledge at your disposal, you can face any PST file issues with confidence, ensuring your Outlook data stays safe and accessible. It's empowering to know you can recover from any PST problem, restore normalcy, and keep the flow of your work or personal communication uninterrupted. No more PST file nightmares for you!

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