How to Fix “Outlook OST File Unable to Open” in Windows OS?

If you are an old-school Outlook user, you might encounter “Outlook 2016 unable to open OST file” or “OST is not an Outlook data file.”In today’s write-up, you will get easy solutions to fix Outlook bugs and the reasons for these error file's occurrence.

Both OST and PST are Outlook data files that store entire Outlook profile data, including contacts, calendars, and tasks. The functionality of both files is different from each other. The OST is offline data files that allow access to all content without internet connectivity.

The OST file is delicate and can easily lead to corruption. Once the OST files become inaccessible or orphan, no manual is available to import OST files into Outlook. Thus, to solve these error codes without failure, read the entire post carefully!

Why is Outlook 2016 Unable to Open OST File in Windows?

Here, users will learn why the Outlook OST files cannot open the error message.

  1. Abrupt Closer of Outlook During Synchronization.
  2. Improper Configuration of Email Accounts.
  3. Network Failure or Sudden Power Outage.
  4. OST Exceeds Storage Limit.
  5. Virus Infection
  6. Incompatible Outlook Plug-in.

These are the primary concern for the error message “Outlook OST File Unable to Open .” Users can manually fix such errors if their Outlook profile is active with Microsoft exchange. If you have an orphan OST file, no manual solution will work for you. In that case, only a third-party solution will help you get out of the error message.

Fix OST is Not an Outlook Data File – Expert Solution

Our recommendation for users is to go with BitRecover OST to PST Converter Software. This solution can export orphan, damaged, inaccessible OST files with all data attributes to PST format.

Additionally, the wizard offers multiple advanced data filters, including split PST files, creating an individual file for each user, and many more. The GUI of the wizard is use-to-use, and any novice can efficiently operate it without any difficulty.

Users can download these wizards for free on Windows and Mac OS and enjoy multiple benefits. Let’s check out how effectively this wizard will fix Outlook 2016 unable to open OST file.

Automated Solution Working Explained

  1. Download and Open the software on Windows and Mac OS, and read the instructions.
  2. Afterward, the software will fetch the default location for Outlook, continue with that, or upload the OST file manually.

    upload OST file
  3. Next, the wizard will analyze the data file and list all the folders in the software dashboard.
  4. Select the folders for conversion, and click “Next” to move forward.
  5. In the next window, users must opt for the “Saving Option” and apply the data filters accordingly.

    Saving Options
  6. Select the “Designation Location” and click on the convert button to fix the Outlook OST file unable to open.

That’s about the automated solution to resolve Outlook 2016 unable to open the OST file. Users can easily import the resultant data file to Outlook 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010, 2007, etc. by using the string mentioned below:

Common Frequently Asked Questions

Q) How do I fix the Outlook OST file is not accessible in Outlook?

Solution: If you are unable to access OST file content in Outlook, then you can follow these steps:

  1. Shut down all ongoing processes within Outlook.
  2. Restart your device
  3. Disable Cache Mode
  4. Make use of SCANPST.exe

If none works, then go with the solution to fix Outlook OST file unable to open error message.

Q) Is there any way to open an OST file without Outlook?

Solution: No, there is no way to view OST file content without Outlook because OST is an Outlook data file and not compatible with other mail applications. Perhaps, users can use BitRecover OST File Viewer Software to view OST file emails and attachments.

Q) Can I access OST file data if Exchange Server is Offline?

Solution: Yes, OST files provide the functionality to access OST file content in offline mode. Additionally, users made all the required changes in the OST file, and changes will be updated to the server when you re-connect to the server.

Q) I have an orphan OST file. Can I import it back to Outlook 2019?

Solution: No manual solution is available to import it back to your Outlook profile once your OST file becomes an orphan. Even users will get no explanation from Microsoft Software.

The only left is to convert OST to PST format using the BitRecover OST File Converter can import OST files into Outlook in any edition using Import/Export functionality.

Q) What’s the difference between a Demo and Paid Solution of Software?

Solution: The pro and trial edition of the software is the same, the only difference is in the conversion limit. The free solution allows users to export only twenty-five items from the file and paid solution lets users to export unlimited data files.

So There You Have It

OST files become inaccessible for various reasons, including software and hardware issues. In the above guide, we have explained the solution to fix Outlook 2016 unable to open OST file. Users will get detailed guidance to complete the process with complete security and accuracy. Users can download this software for free on Mac and Windows OS to evaluate its performance.