How to Run ScanPST.exe on Outlook?

Repairing Corrupted Outlook PST Files: ScanPST.exe and Stellar Repair for Outlook

PST (Personal Storage Table) files are crucial for storing Outlook email data, especially when server storage is limited or offline access is needed. However, PST files can become corrupted, leading to data loss in emails, contacts, calendars, and other mailbox items. Fortunately, solutions exist.

This article explores two methods for repairing these files: Microsoft's built-in ScanPST.exe (Inbox Repair Tool) and the more powerful Stellar Repair for Outlook.

ScanPST.exe: The Built-in Option

ScanPST.exe is a free Microsoft utility included with most Outlook installations. It's designed to address common PST file issues. However, its location varies depending on your operating system (32-bit or 64-bit) and Outlook version (Office 365, Office 16, Office 15, etc.).

Finding ScanPST.exe:

• Office 365/Office 16: Typically located in C:Program Files (x86)Microsoft OfficerootOffice16 or C:Program FilesMicrosoft OfficerootOffice16
• Office 15 and older: Look in C:Program Files (x86)Microsoft OfficeOfficeX or C:Program FilesMicrosoft OfficeOfficeX, replacing "X" with your Office version number.

Using ScanPST.exe:

1. Locate and double-click SCANPST.EXE.
2. Browse to your PST file (usually found in C:Users[Username]AppDataLocalMicrosoftOutlook – remember to unhide the AppData folder in File Explorer's View settings).
3. Ensure "Make backup of scanned file before repairing" is checked.
4. Click "Start" to scan, then "Repair."

ScanPST.exe Limitations:

ScanPST.exe has limitations:

• Header Corruption: It struggles with severe PST header corruption.
• Major Corruption: It may fail to repair extensive data corruption.
• Data Loss: It may discard some data, especially permanently deleted items.
• File Size Limits: It has limitations on the size of PST files it can handle.
• Freezing/Multiple Attempts: It can freeze or require multiple runs.

If ScanPST.exe fails ("The Microsoft Outlook Inbox Repair Tool does not recognize the file," or similar errors), a more robust solution is needed.

Stellar Repair for Outlook: A Superior Alternative

Stellar Repair for Outlook offers a more comprehensive solution. It overcomes many of ScanPST.exe's limitations:

• No File Size Limit: Handles large PST files effectively.
• Recovers Deleted Items: Recovers data beyond simple corruption.
• Preview Feature: Allows previewing recoverable data before repair.
• Selective Recovery: Lets you choose specific items to recover.
• Multiple Export Formats: Exports data in various formats (PST, MSG, EML, RTF, HTML, PDF).

Conclusion

ScanPST.exe is a useful starting point, but Stellar Repair for Outlook provides a more powerful and reliable solution for severe PST corruption. Choose the tool that best suits your needs and the severity of the corruption. Remember to always back up your data regularly to prevent future data loss.

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