How to Resolve “Errors Detected in Outlook OST File” In 6 Clicks

As more email data is stored over time, it causes the OST file to grow exceeding its size limit. When the OST files grow too large, their internal structure may start to break down. This makes it difficult for Outlook to manage and sync data smoothly. Eventually, this disrupts Outlook’s performance, leading to file corruption and causing “Errors Detected in Outlook OST File” to display. So, how do we address this situation and fix this error? Read the blog carefully, where we have provided both a manual method and an automated Outlook PST Repair Tool method. But, before executing the solutions, let us first understand what causes this error.

What Leads to the “Error Have Been Detected in the File Outlook.ost” Issue?

• If your OST File becomes too large, it can become corrupted and unstable, causing errors.
• While working in Outlook, and there is a power cut, then it can corrupt the OST File. 
• The faulty add-ins may become incompatible with the updated Outlook version. Certain anti-virus and firewall programs can also hamper Outlook’s operations. 
• When updating Windows or Outlook, it introduces bugs that can damage the OST file.
• Malicious infections are capable of damaging the OST File and, therefore, causing the error to occur. 

How do I Resolve “Errors Detected in Outlook OST File”?

After identifying what’s causing the issue, we can now move ahead to look at how to resolve it.

Update Outlook and Windows

Using the older version of Outlook can lead to issues with security, compatibility, and how Outlook interacts with other programs. Keeping Outlook and Windows updated eliminates the file corruption issue and fixes bugs. 

• To update Outlook, go to File > Office Account > Update Options > Update Now.
• To update Windows, open the Settings and click on Update & Security. 

Check the Internet Connections

If the network connection is unstable during the synchronization process, the OST file can become corrupt. A stable internet connection ensures that the data is fully sent and received correctly between Outlook and the mail server. 

There are several ways to check if your internet connection is stable or not:

• Try using an online tool to check the speed of your connection
• Switch back to a wired connection 
• Prevent network issues by upgrading the Wi-Fi plan.

Repair the File using the Inbox Repair Tool (Scanpst.exe)

The Outlook’s built-in utility, Inbox Repair Tool, can fix minor file corruption. Follow these steps to repair the file if Outlook data file errors have been detected in the file:

1. Locate the Scanpst.exe file on your system, depending on the versions of Outlook and Windows.
2. Run the tool, find the OST File location, and select it.
3. Then, click on the Start button to start the repair process.

Disable the Faulty Add-ins 

Certain outdated or faulty add-ins may interfere with Outlook’s operations. This can cause corruption of the data file, performance issues, etc. It can also disrupt the connection between Outlook and the mail server during the syncing process. By disabling faulty add-ins, allows the user to address the issue and resolve it.

These are the steps to follow to disable outdated add-ins:

1. Open the Outlook application, click on File, and select Options.
2. Press Add-ins, scroll down to the end, and click on Manage and select COM Add-ins. 
3. Click on the Go button, uncheck the unnecessary add-ins, and tap Ok.

Run the Outlook application in Safe Mode

Running Microsoft Outlook in Safe mode allows you to detect whether the problem is in Outlook or add-ins, etc. It temporarily eliminates the faulty add-ins and helps the user decide whether to reinstall Outlook or not. 

• To run Outlook in Safe Mode, press Win+R, type outlook.exe /safe, and tap Enter.

A Reliable Way To Resolve “Errors Detected in Outlook OST File”

If you are still facing issues with the Outlook error, then try using the Outlook PST Repair Tool. This specialized utility repairs the damaged OST files with its dual scanning modes. The Quick scan is used to repair minor corruptions, and the Advanced scan is used to repair severe corruption. The software also allows users to preview the recovered emails before saving, batch recovery, and diverse export options. 

To fix error have been detected in the file Outlook.ost, follow these steps:

1. Download and launch the software.
2. Click on Open and select the corrupted OST File.
3. Choose the type of Recovery Mode and click on Ok to proceed further.
4. Once the scanning process gets completed, select the files/folders that you want to repair and press Ok.
5. Preview the contents of the file and tap on Save button to export the file to your chosen destination folder.
6. Finally, click on Ok.

Conclusion

To wrap up, the “Errors Detected in Outlook OST File” can occur from a variety of factors. The factors may include a corrupt OST File, a poor internet connection, faulty add-ins, etc. While manual methods can resolve these issues, the OST File corruption does need a specialised and reliable tool. The Outlook PST Repair Tool has the capability for large-scale recovery, which makes it a preferable choice for enterprises. 

Related Guide: Migrate Shared Mailbox to Office 365.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q- How do I fix Outlook OST errors have been detected in the file?

Ans- You can try checking your internet connection, updating Windows and Outlook to the latest versions, disabling faulty add-ins, etc. If you suspect the OST file corruption, then run the inbox repair tool. If the corruption is severe, try using the Outlook PST Repair Tool.

Q- How do OST files get corrupted?Ans- OST file gets corrupted due to unstable network connection, sudden shutdowns, faulty add-ins, storage issues, profile errors, etc.

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