How to repair corrupted Outlook PST/OST data files (SCANPST.EXE)

If Microsoft Outlook fails to open data files or reports errors, use Microsoft's built-in Inbox Repair Tool (SCANPST.EXE):

1. Exit Outlook completely.
2. Locate SCANPST.EXE on your computer (typically found in C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\root\Office16\SCANPST.EXE or C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\root\Office16\).
3. Double-click SCANPST.EXE to launch the tool.
4. Click Browse and locate your .pst or .ost file (usually in C:\Users\%username%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Outlook or Documents\Outlook Files).
5. Click Start to scan for integrity errors and folder structure problems.
6. When errors are detected, ensure "Make a backup of scanned file before repairing" is checked, then click Repair.
7. Once complete, restart Outlook. If items were damaged, check the rebuilt Lost and Found folder.