How to recover pst file？

Recovering a PST (Personal Storage Table) file can be crucial if you’ve lost important emails, contacts, or calendar events in Microsoft Outlook. 

1. PST Files

PST files are used by Microsoft Outlook to store data locally on your computer. These files can become corrupted due to various reasons such as improper shutdowns, virus infections, or software malfunctions.

2. Basic Troubleshooting Steps

2.1. Check for Backups

Before attempting recovery, check if you have backups:

Windows Backup: Check if you have backed up your system.

Cloud Services: Look for PST files in OneDrive, Google Drive, or any other cloud service you may use.

2.2. Verify File Location

Ensure that the PST file is located where you think it is. Sometimes, files can be moved or deleted accidentally.

2.3. Scan for Corruption

Use the built-in Windows tool called ScanPST.exe to check for corruption:

Close Outlook.

Locate ScanPST.exe:

For Outlook 2016/2019/365. it’s usually in C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\root\Office16.

Run ScanPST.exe:

Open the tool and browse to your PST file location.

Click on Start to begin scanning.

If corruption is found, follow the prompts to repair.

3. Advanced Recovery Options

If the basic steps don’t resolve the issue, consider these advanced methods:

3.1. Create a New PST File

Open Outlook.

Go to File > Account Settings > Data Files.

Click on Add and select Outlook Data File.

Name the file and save it.

Move or copy items from the old PST file to the new one.

3.2. Import from Old PST File

If your old PST file is accessible but you can’t open it:

Open Outlook.

Go to File > Open & Export > Import/Export.

Select Import from another program or file and click Next.

Choose Outlook Data File (.pst) and click Next.

Browse for your old PST file, select it, and choose how to handle duplicates.

Select the folders you want to import and click Finish.

3.3. Use Third-Party Software

If the PST file is severely corrupted and ScanPST or importing doesn’t work, consider third-party recovery tools like:

Stellar Repair for Outlook

Kernel for Outlook PST Repair

PST Walker

DataNumen Outlook Repair

Always research and choose reputable software. Most offer trial versions to assess recovery capabilities.

4. Restore from System Restore Point

If your system has a restore point from before the PST file corruption:

Open the Control Panel.

Go to System and Security > System.

Click on System Protection.

Select System Restore and follow the prompts to restore to a previous point.

5. Preventive Measures

To avoid future PST file corruption and data loss, consider the following practices:

5.1. Regular Backups

Regularly back up your PST files using Windows Backup or third-party software.

5.2. Use Cloud Services

Store your emails in the cloud with services like Outlook.com or Exchange. This reduces reliance on local PST files.

5.3. Avoid Large PST Files

Keep PST file sizes below the recommended limits (usually 20 GB for older Outlook versions, larger for newer ones). Split large files when necessary.

5.4. Close Outlook Properly

Always close Outlook properly to avoid file corruption.

5.5. Antivirus Software

Keep your antivirus software updated to protect against malware that can corrupt PST files.