Outlook Data Files Not Responding – 3 Proven Ways

Approved By Anuraag Singh

Published On March 12th, 2026

Reading Time 6 Minutes Reading

Category Outlook

Summary: In this article, we will discuss how to resolve Outlook data files not responding error using some effective methods, including both manual and professional solutions.

Outlook is one of the most used email client and it stores its data in PST or OST file format. Now, the creation of the backend data of Outlook is totally dependent on the protocol you have chosen while configuring the account. Like when you choose POP, then Outlook will store data in PST file format and when you create an account using the IMAP, then Outlook stores data in OST file format.

And here we are going to discuss the PST data file because there are many Outlook users who reported that their Outlook data files not working. So if you’re looking for the same, then you are on the right page.

Common Reasons for Outlook Data File Not Responding

Basically, there are multiple factors responsible for this error, but this section defines some of the major reasons:

If the PST file moved from the default location, then you will notice the same error with your Outlook data file.
If you are opening the Outlook file that has no administrator privileges, then you will face this error with your Outlook data file
If the PST file is corrupted, then you will notice this error with your Outlook account.

So, after knowing the reasons, it’s time to move towards the section where we will discuss the methods to fix the same.

Methods to Fix Outlook Data Files Not Responding Error

Basically, here in this section, we are going to discuss some free as well as some automated methods that will help to fix the above-discussed error.

Method 1: Change Outlook Properties

Sometimes the internal configuration of Outlook is also the reason for this error. So, here in this section, we are going to discuss the steps to modify the Outlook properties. So follow the steps below to complete the procedure.

Go to the location of the PST file now choose the file then right-click on it and choose properties.
Now, uncheck the Read-only box and click on the OK button.
After this setting, open Outlook again, and if the problem still exists.
Then right-click on the PST file again to bring up the Properties menu.
Select the Security tab, followed by the Edit tab.
After that, select Add, write Everyone and then select OK.
After checking the Full Control box, click the OK button.
Re-import the Outlook PST file into Outlook when you’ve finished making all of your adjustments.

Method 2: Move Location of PST File

After trying the above methods if you still facing the Outlook data files not responding error, you can, try moving the PST file to a different place. To do so, simply follow the procedures below:

To start first, save the Outlook PST file to your computer’s desktop.

Note: Check to become sure the PST file isn’t set to “Read Only.”
Location of the PST file

C: User percent Username percent AppDataLocalMicrosoftOutlook%

Copy the PST file and paste it somewhere else.
Then, in your Outlook profile, try to import and open the Outlook file.
To begin, save the Outlook PST file to your computer’s desktop.

Method 3: Repair Outlook Data File

In the above section, we have mentioned that Outlook PST file corruption is also responsible for Outlook data files not responding error. Therefore, it becomes important to repair Outlook PST data file. Now, to fix this issue, Outlook has its built-in inbox repair tool, which is ScanPST.exe.

Now, to use this software, you have to search for the location of ScanPST file. This is quite a hectic task to do because the location of the ScanPST varies according to the Outlook version. But don’t worry. In the following section, we’ve mentioned all the default locations of the Outlook Inbox Repair Tool.

Location of Scanpst

For Outlook 2019: C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\root\Office16

For Outlook 2016: C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\root\Office16

For Outlook 2013: C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\Office15

For Outlook 2010: C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\Office14

For Outlook 2007: C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\Office12

After finding Scanpst double-click on the exe to open it.
To add the PST file, click the Browse option once the application has opened.
Then, to begin the scanning process, click the Start button.
When the scanning is completed, click on the Repair button to repair the PST file.

Also Read: How Long Does ScanPST Take to Complete Repair

Well, the tool is nice. But there are limitations with an Outlook repair tool, as it’s only capable of repairing minor corruption, and if your file is highly corrupted, then you are not able to fix the issue using ScanPST.

In such cases, you can use an advanced utility that allows you to fix both big and minor damages without any challenges. Try Outlook PST Repair Software, which is specifically developed to repair Outlook PST file corruption and help in resolving issues that arise as a result of corruption.

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Note: If your Outlook mailbox storage is exceeded due to duplicates, then it could also be a possible reason for occurring Outlook data file not working issue. In such cases, you should remove all redundant data to make Outlook accessible. Try SysTools Outlook Duplicate Items Remover Tool, which is an automated solution that can help you to fix the error by eliminating duplicate data easily.

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Final Verdict

In the above informative article, we have discovered how to fix Outlook data files not responding error using 4 best proven methods. Whether you’re switching Outlook properties, moving PST file location, or recovering the Outlook data manually, the above ways might not be reliable or secure for sensitive data. In such cases, we recommend using the advanced solution mentioned in above guide for resolving issues instantly.