Today we are going to discuss about a common problem with PST files, here you are going to learn how do I access Outlook PST files. Some users need to access Outlook PST files but they need to have the proper knowledge to perform that task.

When we start providing you with the solutions you are going to see a manual method and an automated way to view Outlook PST files, which will be the ForensicsWare PST File Viewer application.

What Problems Prevent Users to Access Outlook PST Files

In this section, you are going to learn about the problems and errors that you face while you try to view Outlook PST files.  

  • If a user has set a password to protect their PST file and forgets it, they won't be able to access the file without the correct password.
  • Sometimes, anti-virus programs interfere with Outlook, causing access issues. They incorrectly identify elements within the PST file as threats and delete them.
  • If there are issues with the storage device where the PST file is located, such as a failing hard drive, it can lead to problems accessing the file.
  • PST files created in a newer version of Outlook not be fully compatible with older versions of the software. This can result in difficulties accessing the data.
  • If the PST file is stored on a network drive, issues with network connectivity can prevent users from accessing the file.
  • If Outlook is not configured correctly, users face issues with their PST files. This could include problems with email account settings and profile corruption with the mail server.

As you can see there are many problems that can pop up when you try to access Outlook PST files. after knowing the problems we can move on to the solutions part, you will see the manual solution for your problem.

How Do I Access Outlook PST Files Manually?

To perform this manual method you need the Outlook application in your system without this the process can get more complicated and long. The steps we are going to provide you include the use MS Outlook application.

  • From the File menu, select Account Settings > Account Settings.
  • Click the Data Files tab and then click Add.
  • Specify the path, file name and Outlook Data File file type.
  • Click OK button and Close the "Accounts Settings" window.
  • Attaching PST to Outlook
  • The new data file now appears on the left tab. You can copy Outlook folders into it.
  • Then Transfer the  PST to another PC and import it into Outlook using the "Import and Export Wizard" described above.
  • Make sure all the data is transferred correctly. You can now delete the PST file created to transfer the folders
  • Open File > Account Settings > Account Settings.
  • On the Data Files tab, find the PST file and click Remove.
  • Now find this PST file on your desktop and move it to the trash bin.

These manual steps can help you to access Outlook PST files but it has many limitations that you will learn below.

Limitations of Manual Method 

In this part of this blog, you will learn about the limitations of the manual method, that we have provided you above. So you can choose the right and best method to view your PST files with ease.

  • Manual methods often require a good understanding of the underlying technical aspects of Outlook and PST files. Non-technical users may find it challenging to perform these tasks accurately.
  • Performing manual ways, if not done correctly, can be a risk of data loss. Incorrect procedures can lead to more corruption of PST files important email data.
  • The Inbox Repair Tool provided by Microsoft is a common manual method for repairing PST files. However, it has its limitations,in some cases, its not able to fix severe corruption issues.
  • Manual methods can be time-consuming, especially when dealing with large corrupted PST files. This can be inconvenient for users who need quick access to their email data.
  • Advanced issues, may not be fully addressed by manual methods. Users may need to look for professional assistance in such cases.

If you are looking for a more advanced and fast solution then this manual method we have the perfect application you can use. In the next section of this article, you will see the working of the professional application.

How Do I Access Outlook PST Files Using a Professional Application

PST Reader Software designed by FreeViewer is the best application you can get to view Outlook PST files. Without depending on Outlook or any other application. Let's see and learn about it's working steps.

  • From the official site download the application
  • Open the application and locate your PST files or use the auto-search function
  • After the search choose the PST file you want to open (in case if you have many) 
  • Selecting the PST will open the file with eight preview modes such as header, HTML, RTF and many more
  • You can choose the view mode according to your preference from a vertical or horizontal view

With is professional software you don't need to depend on any other mail client application to manage your PST files. It's perfect for everyone because of its ease of use, also this application has so many beneficial features and functions to use.

Beneficial Features of the Professional Application

  • Preview all Outlook PST emails with their attachments in full without any size limitation.
  • You can Effortlessly browse and view Outlook PST emails with precision.
  • Perform a forensic analysis with this tool on the required files using Hex and PST methods.
  • How to Browse and View Damaged or Corrupted Outlook PST Files.
  • The software provides two scanning modes that allow for easy viewing of data from PST files.

Last Words 

In this blog, we have shared all the important information to access Outlook PST files you can use any provided method to view Outlook PST files. According to your need and Without wasting your time.