Are you affected by thecannot delete this data fileerror in Outlook?
You have spent endless hours scouring the internet without any fix working for you.
Do not worry; youre in the right place.
I faced a similar error when I added a new profile to get emails from another account.
I have compiled the steps in this article in the same order I fixed my Outlook account.
Without wasting any time, lets get started.
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When Does Cannot Delete Outlook Data File Error Occur?
A virus infection can corrupt the data file too.
Outlook mainly uses this file to keep your profile information.
When Outlook is actively using it, you cannot change or delete it.
If Outlook is running in the background, that means it is using the files stored in the HDD.
You will receive the error alert if you delete the data file during this time.
you’ve got the option to view if the Outlook process is running in the task manager.
Even if Outlook is closed, it can remain active in the background.
For example, a third-party utility can sync the calendar using Outlook.
It will run Outlook as a background task.
You will encounter the same error as you delete the data files.
Corrupted OST files can cause Outlook to give out an error.
A virus or malware in your system can cause problems with the OST file.
If you close Outlook when updating or syncing with the exchange server, this can corrupt the OST files.
Bad sectors in the HDD can also contribute to the failure of these files.
Terminate Outlook before attempting to delete the data files.
Remove the existing data files and create a new location for them.
Lets look at how it’s possible for you to apply the fixes.
exit the file from the menu in Outlook to proceed forward.
Now you could proceed to Delete the Data files without interruption.
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Terminate the Outlook process
You must close Outlook from the Task Manager before deleting the data files.
If Outlook is open, it will venture to stop the deletion process.
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Remove the Outlook profile from Control Panel
The existing profile of Outlook can become corrupted.
You will need to remove this and add a new profile containing all your information.
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Delete the OST file manually
you’re able to remove the Outlook profile from the Control Panel.
However, you might also delete it manually.
To do this, locate the AppData folder of Outlook and remove the OST file.
Here is how you could remove the OST file:
The OST file is removed from your box.
Important Note:Always create a backup of the OST file.
It can be restored using Outlook later on.
To do so, navigate to the Registry key that stores the Outlook profile and delete it.
Important to Know:Remember to back up the OST file before deleting the Registry entry.
You will lose any data permanently if it is not synced up.
After applying the above fixes, it’s possible for you to delete the data file without errors.
In case the situation persists, look at some additional fixes I have compiled in the next section.
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Additional Steps to Fix the Data File Error
By now, Outlook should start functioning properly.
If Outlook does not work for you yet, follow these additional fixes.
These fixes are common to all applications.
Use them as a final resort.
This method removes the processes from memory and boots up the core services and drivers.
Then launch Outlook and see the changes.
Repair Outlook
The core files and configurations of Outlook can become messed up.
It can break the usual operation of Outlook.
To fix this, trigger the Office repair tool.
It will reinstall every Office component and bring the applications to the stock configs.
Here are the steps to reinstall Office:
The Repairing will start and fix the Office installation files.
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Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
How do I shut the Data files in Outlook?
you could easily kill the data files in Outlook.
To do this, navigate toOutlook> Right Click onData Files>Close Outlook Data Files>Ok.
How Can I Delete the Data Files in Outlook?
The data files are located in the AppData folder under the current user.
How can I repair the OST file?
Microsoft Office includes a PST repair tool.
Insert the location of the data file to start the repair.
And it can be very annoying at times.
In this article, I have stated why Outlook can give errors in its data files.
you could solve this with significantly less effort.
The solutions stated above will help you do that.
If you have questions, comment below on the post.
Dont forget to tell us which step fixed your error.
Till then, its Goodbye.
