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Written By Raj Singh
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Updated on April 18th, 2025
Outlook Inbox Repair Tool Does Not Recognize the File – Here’s Why
Microsoft Outlook is a popular email client that saves data in PST or OST files for communication. However, these files can get corrupt due to various reasons. Users frequently complain that the default Outlook Inbox Repair Tool does not recognise the file. This makes it challenging to access crucial mailbox data. In this blog, we talk about efficient manual troubleshooting steps and present a trusted professional PST Repair Tool. This utility effectively restores corrupted files to make data accessible and facilitate seamless operation for frequent Outlook users without any technical issues.
What causes “Microsoft Outlook Inbox Repair Tool Does Not Recognize the File”?
The error may be due to several reasons. The following are the most common reasons:
- If the PST file is highly corrupted, the Inbox Repair Tool may not be able to read or repair it.
- The file could be an invalid PST file or in an unsupported version.
- Entering an incorrect or inaccessible file path can cause an error.
- Older versions of Outlook contain a size limitation, anything over this can ruin the file.
- If it’s saved to a drive containing bad sectors or disc errors.
- Sudden termination or interrupted file transfer can harm the structure of the PST file.
- Malware infection can mess up PST files, making it impossible for ScanPST.exe to access or fix them.
Manual Methods to Fix “Outlook Inbox Repair Tool Does Not Recognize the File” Error
To solve the error, we elaborate on different processes, such as manual procedures and expert procedures. Perform each process cautiously to rule out any possibility of data loss or data breach.
Fix Outlook Error By Rebuilding the Profile
A corrupted Outlook profile will damage the link to the Exchange Server, causing recognizing issues. Creating a new profile usually fixes it by wiping out any flawed configurations in the original one. Be aware, though, that doing so can lead to losing your customized preferences and settings.
Steps:
- First, search and type Control Panel and open it.
- Under the Control Panel, select the Mail option.
- In the Mail Setup window, choose Show Profiles.
- After that, click Add to add a new profile.
- In the Add Account window, input your email account information.
- Lastly, make the newly set profile the default for Outlook.
Fix “Outlook Inbox Repair Tool Does Not Recognize the File” by Network Connection
If the Inbox Repair Tool does not identify the OST or PST file, start by checking your network connection. Outlook is dependent on a stable internet connection for the proper functionality of ScanPST. Make sure your device is well connected to the internet. Fixing the connectivity problems may rejuvenate Outlook’s communication with the server and enhance the repair tool’s performance.
Steps:
- Ensure that you can access the Internet by opening a website.
- If you are connected online via Wi-Fi, check if the signal is strong.
- You can also try to connect by plugging in an Ethernet cable.
Automated Solution to Fix “Outlook Inbox Repair Tool Does Not Recognize the File” Error
A damaged PST file is often the root cause of the “Inbox Repair Tool Does Not Recognize the File” error. To resolve this efficiently, using an automated PST Repair Tool is highly recommended. This software offers a seamless repair process while preserving the integrity of your data. What sets it apart is its intuitive interface, making it far more user-friendly than many alternatives. Moreover, it boasts broad compatibility, supporting all versions of Windows, ensuring smooth performance regardless of the operating system you’re working on.
Easiest Ways to Fix Outlook Error
- Install and run the PST Recovery software on your computer.
- Click the Add File(s) button on the toolbar to upload your PST files.
- Navigate through your folders and choose the corrupted PST file.
- Once uploaded, the corresponding Exchange mailbox data will be listed.
- Click Save to select the specific mailbox folders you want to keep.
- Next, utilize the Browse feature to specify a location for saving the recovered file.
- Lastly, click the Convert button to start the process.
Conclusion
For a quick and efficient solution to the “Outlook Inbox Repair Tool Does Not Recognize the File” error, using a professional PST repair tool is highly recommended. While manual methods exist, they may not be effective in cases of severe file corruption. In these situations, it is best to skip steps manually and choose to use dedicated recovery software. This method allows for a hassle-free repair procedure, reduces data loss risks to a minimum, and provides a quick and effective solution to the problem.
Related Post: Prevent Outlook Corruption.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1.What are the signs of a corrupted PST file?
Ans: Common signs of a corrupted PST file include Outlook not opening or responding properly during use. Frequent crashes while accessing mailbox data may also indicate corruption in the PST file. Users may experience missing, deleted, or inaccessible emails within their Outlook folders.
2.Is there any risk of data loss while using the Inbox Repair Tool?
Ans: Yes, there is a minor risk of data loss if no backup is available before starting the repair process. To minimize this risk, always create a backup of your PST file. This ensures you can recover important data if something goes wrong.
3.What should I check before using ScanPST.exe?
Ans: Make sure you are selecting the correct PST file from the right location on your system. Check that the file is not marked as read-only in its properties. Also, ensure your device has a stable internet connection before using the repair tool.
About The Author:
Raj is a skilled technical writer who makes complicated topics easy to understand. With experience in email and cloud migration, he creates clear and engaging content that helps readers learn about technology. His work is trusted by many and has been featured on well-known tech sites.
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