Scanpst is a built-in tool offered by Microsoft, integrated within the Microsoft Outlook email client system files. Its primary function is to identify and mend impaired and corrupted Personal folders (.pst) as well as Offline Data (.ost) files. Often referred to as the Inbox Repair Tool, executing the scanpst file prompts a window labeled as the Microsoft Outlook Inbox Repair Tool. It's important to remember that this built-in tool exclusively scans PST and OST files and does not extend to mailboxes on the server.
How does Scanpst work?
The .pst file functions as a database, executing all its operations within this file. It conducts tasks such as scanning, validating, and rectifying any detected errors in the fundamental structure of the .pst file.
The process involves distinct validation and correction procedures tailored to various elements like folders, messages, calendar items, and more. In the event of any identified issues, it initially reconstructs the element and subsequently reconstructs the header of your original PST or OST file. On rare occasions, if a segment of the file is determined to be corrupt, it excises that portion. If complete recovery is not achieved in a single attempt, it is advisable to execute multiple iterations of the repair process to retrieve the file.
There are numerous potential factors that may result in corruption within a PST file. Let's outline the typical causes of PST file corruption.
- Virus or malware attack
- Bad sectors on the storage device
- Oversized PST file
- Abrupt termination of Outlook application
- Poor recovery software
Having covered the fundamentals of scanpst, we can now move ahead. Prior to utilizing this built-in utility, it's important to familiarize yourself with the process of locating Scanpst on your Windows system. The precise location of the tool may differ based on the version of Office Suite and the type of installation. Additionally, it is contingent on whether you are using a 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows.
It's important to remember that when you install Microsoft Office on your system, scanpst.exe is also installed. This built-in utility is typically found in the same folder as Outlook. Here's a nifty method for locating it:
- Launch Outlook and minimize the interface.
- Open the Task Manager.
- Find Outlook on the Processes tab.
- Right-click on Outlook and select “Open File Location”.
When you open Windows Explorer, it will display the directory where Outlook is installed. The Scanpst location is primarily found within this same folder.
By default. Scanpst is in various locations according to versions of Outlook and Windows combined. Scanpst location in different versions are as follows:
| MS Outlook Version | Location of Scanpst in different Windows OS |
|---|---|
| Outlook 97/98 | C:\Program Files\Common Files\Windows Messaging\scanpst.exe |
| Outlook 2000 | C:\Program Files\Common Files\System\MAPI\ <locale ID>\NT\scanpst.exe |
| Outlook 2002/XP | C:\Program Files\Common Files\System\MAPI\ <locale ID> \scanpst.exe |
| Outlook 2003 - 32 bit | C:\Program Files\Common Files\System\MSMAPI\<locale ID> |
| Outlook 2003 -64 Bit | C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\System\MSMAPI\<locale ID> |
| Outlook 2007-32 Bit | C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office12 |
| Outlook 2007-64 Bit | C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\Office12 |
| Outlook 2013-32 Bit | C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office15 |
| Outlook 2013-64 Bit | C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\Office15 |
| Outlook 2013-64 Bit Outlook | C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office15 |
| Outlook 2013-Click on Run | C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office15\root\office15 |
| Outlook 2016-32 Bit Windows | C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office16\ |
| Outlook 2016-64 Bit Windows | C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\Office16\ |
| Outlook 2016-64 Bit Outlook | C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office16\ |
| Office 365/Outlook 2019/Outlook 2016 Click to Run,Any Windows | C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\root\office16\ |
Executing the repair process with the tool encompasses various steps. Nonetheless, if you're well-acquainted with the precise Scanpst location, you can streamline the process by following a few specific steps.
- Step 1: Locate the ScanPST.exe file, and double click to launch the inbuilt tool.
- Now, click Browse.
- Step 2: After successfully locating the corrupt or damaged PST or OST, click Start to initiate the scan process.
- Step 3: After the scan process, you will get notified regarding the errors that were found during the scan. Now, click Repair to start the repair process.
- Step 4: Once the file gets repaired by the tool, it will show you a confirmation message saying, “Repair complete.” Click OK to finish the process.
Trying a Smart Solution – When Scanpst Fails
In case Scanpst on your Windows system proves ineffective, professionals suggest turning to a third-party solution for mending corrupt PST files. These specialized tools employ robust algorithms to restore damaged PST files while preserving their file structure and data integrity. An exemplary third-party tool, such as Kernel for Outlook PST Repair, is specifically crafted to handle even the most severe cases of PST file damage. This tool offers a range of saving options, making it the optimal choice if attempts with the built-in utility have been unsuccessful in repairing the PST files.
