HOW TO LOCATE OUTLOOK.PST FILE IN XP

In my previous post titled "Outlook Keeps Shutting Down", I explained how to locate the outlook.pst file by obtaining the path to the file (checking the personal older under 'data management' which is found in the 'file' drop down menu of Microsoft Outlook). However, an anonymous commenter asked, "How do I locate PST file if Outlook won't open?". I was quick to provide an answer only to later realize that some important detail had escaped my attention. I therefore decided to write this blog post to address this issue in more detail and clarity.

WHERE IS THE OUTLOOK.PST FILE LOCATED?

Unless you have previously tinkered with your Outlook.pst file, the default path to this file is  C:\Documents and Settings\Administrator\Local Settings\Application Data\Microsoft\Outlook\Outlook.pst. Therefore, under normal circumstances you should be able to simple navigate to this file using Windows Explorer. However, Windows XP hides this file and many other from view by default. This is done for security issues. To confirm this, go to the Administrator folder and click on 'Select All' from the 'Edit' drop down menu. You will get a pop up informing you that some files cannot be selected because they are hidden and you need to change the settings using the Folder Options Control Panel.

FOLDER OPTIONS CONTROL PANEL

• To get to the Folder Options Control Panel go to the Start menu and click on Control Panel. 
• Next, click on Appearance and Themes
• Now click on Folder Options as shown below

• Next, select the 'View' tab as shown below

• Now click on the radio button "Show hidden files and folders" as shown below.

• Finally, click on 'Apply' then 'OK'

NAVIGATE TO THE OUTLOOK FOLDER

Once you have changed the settings in your Folder Options Control Panel as demonstrated above, you can now easily navigate to the Outlook folder and locate the Outlook.pst file. Go to 'My computer--local disk C:--Documents and Settings--Administrator(or your user ID)--Local Settings-Application Data--Microsoft--Outlook.' The screen shots below demonstrate the path.

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I hope that with this blog post I have adequately addressed the bothersome issue of locating the Outlook.pst file especially in cases where Outlook will not open. 

If your outlook PST file needs to be repaired, then consider getting a free Outlook PST repair tool. 

Leave a comment if you find this useful.

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