How to Fix Outlook 2016 PST File Which Is Not Opening in Windows 10

Often, the users face difficulty in accessing Outlook 2016 PST files on Windows 10 computer. One of the reasons behind it is the improper functioning of MS Outlook when the user tries to open it. MS Outlook suddenly stops working, or it will not open, and the chances of losing crucial data or information within the PST file becomes very high.

These problems might occur due to upgradation of Windows, the configuration of Microsoft applications, and many other applications or programs. The issues faced with Windows upgrade include incompatible software or configuration is not up to date, and this could be one of the reasons why PST file is not opening on Windows 10 computer.

Below listed are some common issues that may affect the health of Outlook 2016 PST files:

• Issue 1: Incompatible programs: Windows operating system receive updates with time. However, installed applications on an operating system are not updated, and faces incompatibility issues take place. Outlook starts to produce errors, especially when MS Office Suite and more specifically Word is not updated.
• Issue 2: System files or applications are missing: At times, when the system files or application files are missing, Outlook desists from working properly. In many cases, the Outlook application is not installed completely and requires reinstallation for proper functionality.
• Issue 3: Abrupt system shut down: The sudden shut down of Windows 10 affects Outlook while it is in the process of email transfer. Later, it might start usually and abruptly shut down after opening. 
• Issue 4: PST file becomes oversized: It is a prevalent problem when the PST exceeds the pre-defined storage space. Hence, Outlook does not read the PST file, and it stops working on a Windows 10 PC.

Resolution

There are many ways to resolve the inaccessibility issue of Outlook 2016 PST file. To cut the long story short try the suggested fixes.

Manual method to repair PST file

The first aid fix to restore a corrupt PST can be done using the Inbox Repair Tool, ScanPST.exe. Find this inbuilt utility tool on your machine (which is a tool developed by Microsoft to resolve issues related to PST files) and run it. Few simple steps to do this:

1. Close Outlook properly if it is running
2. Find and run ScanPST.exe
3. Browse to locate the PST file or manually type the location or file name (if location unknown)
4. Launch Outlook and click on File Info Account Setting Data Files
5. Note file path and file name and Click on Close     OK      Exit Outlook
6. Launch Outlook and create a new PST in your profile
7. Drag all the recovered items to the new PST from “Lost and Found” folder

It is an easy process but suffers several limitations like data loss and require technical expertise. Therefore, to overcome these limitations, the recommended fix is to use an Automated method which is best suited for non-technical users as well.

Automated method Third-Party tool for PST repair

In case the above manual method does not work, you can opt for a third-party tool which is another best and straightforward solution to fix such issues. The IT professionals recommend Kernel for Outlook PST Repair tool. Such type of tools offer extensive features to technical as well as non-technical users at ease.

Final words

We recommend the users to first use the inbuilt Microsoft utility first in case of issues with MS Outlook. If the problem still persists, use PST Repair tool to repair MS Outlook data files in a few clicks.