Fixing the Error – The Outlook Data File Can’t Be Accessed

Fixing the Error – The Outlook Data File Can’t Be Accessed

BY 29 Aug 2025 General Support

If you are getting the error message “The Outlook data file can’t be accessed” while trying to send, receive, or open emails in Microsoft Outlook, you are not alone. This issue is quite common and usually occurs due to incorrect Outlook profile settings, damaged PST/OST files, or synchronization problems.

Possible Causes:

  • Incorrect Outlook account configuration

  • Corrupted Outlook profile

  • Damaged or inaccessible PST/OST files

  • Improper Outlook installation or upgrade

Manual Solutions to Try:

  1. Repair Outlook Profile

    • Open Control Panel > Mail > Email Accounts

    • Select your account and click Repair.

  2. Create a New Outlook Profile

    • Go to Control Panel > Mail > Show Profiles

    • Create a new profile and set it as default.

  3. Repair PST/OST File with Inbox Repair Tool (ScanPST.exe)

    • Locate and run ScanPST.exe from the Office installation folder.

    • Browse your PST file and click Repair.

  4. Check File Location

    • Make sure the PST/OST file is stored in the correct location and not moved/deleted.

Alternative Solution:

If the file is severely corrupted, manual methods may not work. In that case, using a reliable ATS Outlook PST Repair Tool is recommended. These tools can recover data from damaged PST files and restore your emails, contacts, calendar, tasks, and attachments without any risk of data loss.

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