How to Fix Outlook.ost is in Use and Cannot be Accessed Error

This blog is written to mention the solution for Outlook.ost is in use and cannot be accessed error, when you encounter this error during accessing of OST file with your Outlook.

Introduction to OST File

I guess your all are familiar with the Outlook email client. The Outlook comprises two types of files PST and OST. The OST file is an offline folder that can be utilized without the internet connection. But, the problem arises when the OST files become inaccessible. This issue is due to the many problems which are arises. So, if you want to fix “Outlook.ost is in use and cannot be accessed”, first you have to understand the reasons behind this error. So, refer the below section for the reasons.

Main Reasons for Outlook.ost is in Use and Cannot be Accessed

1. When there is a situation where many different users attempt to access the same OST file at the same instant.
2. There can be synchronization failure of OST file stored locally with Exchange Server Mailbox.
3. Lack of integrity of the other software in the system with the Outlook application.
4. When the system is shut down improperly and has no power backup.
5. Poor network connection.

Now, it’s time to find the solution, so have a look at the below section.

Manual Methods to Fix Outlook.ost is in Use and Cannot be Accessed Error

Here, I am describing three manual methods to recover your OST file when you encounter error Outlook ost is in Use and Cannot be Accessed.

#1 ScanOST.exe Inbuilt Repair Utility Method

Follows the simple steps for running scanOST.exe.

1. First, close the MS Outlook application
2. Open scanost.exe and then type the proper username when the application prompts for the profile to be repaired.
3. Choose the ‘Connect’when asked to work offline.
4. Select the required folders and mark check on the box of ‘Repair Errors’
5. Now, click on ‘Begin Scan’ to start the scan process.

#2 Method to Export OST to PST when OST File Cannot be Accessed

1. First, launch MS Outlook.
2. Click on ‘File’>>‘Open & Export’ >>‘Import and Export’.
3. Then move to ‘Export to a file’ and then click on ‘Next’.
4. Choose ‘Outlook Data File (.pst)’ & click on ‘Next’.
5. Select the folder from where the items required being imported.
6. Provide the location for the folder to save the PST file and click on ‘Finish’.

#3 Deselect Cached Exchange Mode option

1. Close MS Outlook.
2. Click on Start >> Control panel >> Mail
3. Now Click on Email Accounts button and navigate to Email option
4. Select the required email address regarding OST file showing error and click on ‘Change’
5. Deselect the box of ‘Use Cached Exchange Mode’.
6. Click on Next and then click on ‘Finish’.

Alternative Solution to Fix Outlook.ost is in Use and Cannot be Accessed Error.

If there is a case in which above methods fail to recover OST file as well as export them into Outlook PST file then you can try an alternate solution OST to PST Converter tool. It can resolve error “Outlook.ost is in use and cannot be accessed” easily. It has various features like it also recovers corrupt OST files

Conclusion

In this article, three manual and one automated solution are described. You can try any of them as per your requirement.

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