How to troubleshoot/resolve the error “.ost file cannot be opened’ in Outlook 2016?



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An OST file is an offline file of Microsoft Outlook by which a user is able to work in offline mode. It stores the entire database of the user. When you connect with the Exchange Server, the changes will be automatically updated.

Advantages of OST file


OST files are reliable to work with and they have several advantages –

  • OST files are used as a backup to restore the data when Exchange Server becomes inaccessible
  • Users can access their emails in offline mode without internet connectivity
  • Users can access their important data in case of Exchange Server downtime

Though, OST file has several advantages, sometimes it shows weird behavior and creates issues for the user by showing several types of errors. One of the common errors among them is “.ost file cannot be opened” If you try to open your OST file and it denies to open, it means there is something wrong with your mailbox or MS Outlook.

Causes for OST file cannot be opened error

  • Sudden termination of Outlook
  • Synchronization issue of OST file and Exchange Server
  • Virus or malware entry in the system
  • Bad sectors on the hard drive
  • Power failure

Solutions to resolve the error

There are several methods, a user can opt to rectify the error. Find some methods that will help you to resolve the error.

  • Start MS Outlook in safe mode
  • Disabling MS Outlook Cached Exchange Mode
  • Kill Outlook related processes using Task Manager

What if the issue still persists?

If these three methods won’t work for you and your problem still persists then the only solution left with the user is OST to PST Converter that will help you to retrieve corrupt OST file and move to well-known Outlook PST file.

Why use the professional solution & how it works?

The software has several advanced functions and surely help you to resolve your error. With this application, you can easily perform the risk-free conversion and all Outlook versions are supported by the utility. You can check a free trial of the software before investing your money in it. This would surely help you to sort out your issue within a short period of time.

Working of the application

The software has only a few steps to accomplish the task. Any user can simply follow the steps –

Step 1. Download and Install the application

The first step is to download and install the software successfully on your system.

Step 2. Upload OST file

Use the Browse button to add OST file.

Step 3. Selection of Output location

Provide a location to save the end results.

Step 4. Convert Now

Finally, hit the Convert Now button to start the process.