Fix Outlook Is Using An Old Copy Of Your Outlook Data File

Several times when users open an Outlook OST file, an error message displays on the screen as “Outlook is using an old copy of your Outlook data file”. It implies that your Outlook OST files are corrupt due to inappropriate synchronization. This situation is very stressful or frustrating when you are not able to access the Outlook mailbox items. But don’t worry, there are some methods that can fix this issue easily.  Here in this article, we will guide you with the best and easiest solution to fix this error. Before we move towards methods, Let’s discuss the responsible factors behind this error. 

Factors Responsible for OST Error “Outlook is using an old copy of your OST”

• These types of errors occur because of hardware or software issues. 
• The major reason behind this error is an issue with the Outlook email application or Windows operating system.
•  A Corrupt or damaged OST file is another reason for the error. 
• The abruption of the system, a malicious attack also causes the error 
• Sometimes hardware failure or human errors also leads to the OST file error.

Here we discussed the major factors responsible for OST file error. Now let’s discuss the solutions to fix this error. 

Best DIY Strategies to Troubleshoot “Outlook is using an Old Copy of your Outlook Data File” Error

The very first and best approach to fix the error is to delete the old OST file. But, before deletion ensure to have the backup of your OST file in the form of a PST file. As backup files help you to prevent data loss and you can restore data in Outlook whenever required.

Solution 1: Delete OST File to solve the OST Error Message

Before you delete the OST unhide the file. And then follow the below-given steps:

1. At first, View the Computer or File Explorer.
2. Browse to C:\Users\<your login name>\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Outlook.
3. Delete or remove the files with .ost extension.
4. Make sure not to delete any file with .pst extension.

Solution 2: Repair OST File

If the error still exists, then maybe your OST file is corrupt or damaged. In such a case, you need to repair the OST file with Microsoft inbuilt utility named “scanpst.exe”. You can find the utility along with the procedure guide on the official website of Microsoft. 

Here we discussed the most simple and easiest manual solution to the error Outlook is using an old copy of your ost. However, these methods do not ensure you to fix the error completely. Especially if you are a novice or beginner in this field then you may have to face several difficulties like data loss. But don’t panic you can use alternate methods. Let’s discuss the alternative methods in the below segment of the blog. 

Alternative Approach to Fix the OST Error

An alternative approach involves the use of automated or commercial tools that give an easy and hassle-free solution to your issues. One such tool is the OST Recovery Tool, that restores or recovers damaged or corrupt OST files. It also helps you to retrieve emails safely along with attachments. The tool comes with inbuilt scanning mode features to scan the emails from an OST file. The software keeps your data and folder structure intact during the entire process of recovery.

Conclusions

Here in this guide, we discussed different solutions to the error Outlook is using an old copy of your Outlook data file. I hope this write-up will help you to fix the Outlook OST Error easily. 

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