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A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11If Outlook cannot open a PST, make a separate copy of the file and try Microsoft’s Inbox Repair Tool (ScanPST) on a Windows computer before choosing another repair option. ScanPST can repair some structural errors, but it may take several passes and cannot guarantee that every message or item will be recovered. If it does not solve the problem, the main choice is whether to process the file locally with desktop software or upload it to an online service.
What to do before choosing a repair tool
- Confirm the file type. The steps here are for a PST, a separate Outlook data file. An Exchange OST is different: Microsoft says Outlook can delete and recreate an Exchange offline data file. ScanPST checks local Outlook data files; it does not connect to or analyze data stored in an Exchange mailbox. Microsoft’s PST and OST guidance describes the distinction.
- Protect the original. Copy the PST to a separate location before attempting a repair. Microsoft recommends backing up the existing Outlook data file first. Keep that copy unchanged while you work; ScanPST also creates a backup during repair by default, but a separate copy gives you another recovery point.
- Try ScanPST before paying or uploading. Microsoft lists errors such as “Outlook can’t open your data file” and “Outlook can’t open the set of folders” among situations where the Inbox Repair Tool may help.
How to run Microsoft’s Inbox Repair Tool
ScanPST is included with Outlook installations, but its exact location depends on the Outlook version and installation. Close Outlook first, then locate and launch SCANPST.EXE.
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- In ScanPST, browse to and select the PST you want to check.
- Start the scan. If the tool reports errors, choose Repair and allow it to finish.
- If errors remain, run the scan again. Microsoft says the tool may need several passes to fully repair a PST.
- Open Outlook and inspect the repaired data, including any folders named Recovered Personal Folders or Lost and Found.
ScanPST validates and corrects internal PST structures. In doing so, it may remove unreadable or corrupted blocks or items. A completed repair therefore does not mean every item survived: permanently deleted or severely damaged items may not be recoverable. Microsoft’s detailed description of the PST repair process explains its structural checks, and the support procedure describes the tool and possible recovered folders. Keep the original and backup while checking the results.
How the repair options differ
The comparison below separates Microsoft’s built-in tool from vendor-specific examples. Desktop and online products vary, so verify the product’s current requirements and terms rather than applying one vendor’s claims to every tool.
#1 Best Overall
![MixPad Free Multitrack Recording Studio and Music Mixing Software [Download]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71ltIxIuz1L._SL160_.jpg)
- Create a mix using audio, music and voice tracks and recordings.
- Customize your tracks with amazing effects and helpful editing tools.
- Use tools like the Beat Maker and Midi Creator.
- Work efficiently by using Bookmarks and tools like Effect Chain, which allow you to apply multiple effects at a time
- Use one of the many other NCH multimedia applications that are integrated with MixPad.
| What matters | Microsoft ScanPST | Third-party desktop tool | Online service |
|---|---|---|---|
| Where processing happens | On the Windows computer, on the local Outlook data file. | For its desktop product, Stellar says processing occurs locally. This is a vendor statement, not an independent verification. | The PST must be uploaded to the service. |
| Cost | Included with Outlook. | A product license may be required; check the vendor’s current terms. | May have free and paid tiers; check current prices and limits. |
| File-size limits | No general current cap is stated on the cited Microsoft support page. | Stellar advertises no size limit for its desktop edition. | Stellar advertises a free repair for one file up to 500 MB and a paid tier for files up to 5 GB. |
| Recovery certainty | Microsoft says some problems and items cannot be recovered. | No independent comparative recovery data is established here. | No independent comparative recovery data is established here. |
| Requirements | Windows file access and an Outlook installation. | Requirements depend on the product. Stellar says Outlook is needed to complete and save repair with its desktop product. | A browser and the ability to upload the file; other requirements depend on the service. |
When to consider desktop software
If ScanPST fails, a third-party desktop product is an option when you want to keep the PST on your computer rather than upload it. For example, Stellar says its desktop tool processes locally, provides a preview, and requires Outlook to complete repair and save recovered data. Those are the vendor’s descriptions, not independent test findings; confirm the current product requirements before installing or purchasing it. A local workflow avoids sending the file to an online service, but it is still third-party software and does not promise complete recovery.
When an online service may be suitable
An online repair service may be more convenient if you prefer not to install desktop software, but it requires sending the PST to the provider. Do not upload work, client, financial, health, or otherwise sensitive mail unless doing so is permitted by your organization’s rules and acceptable to you. Check how the provider handles the uploaded file, how long it remains available, and how recovered data is delivered.
Rank #2
![WavePad Audio Editing Software - Professional Audio and Music Editor for Anyone [Download]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/B1fcLEGCs6S.png._SL160_.png)
- Full-featured professional audio and music editor that lets you record and edit music, voice and other audio recordings
- Add effects like echo, amplification, noise reduction, normalize, equalizer, envelope, reverb, echo, reverse and more
- Supports all popular audio formats including, wav, mp3, vox, gsm, wma, real audio, au, aif, flac, ogg and more
- Sound editing functions include cut, copy, paste, delete, insert, silence, auto-trim and more
- Integrated VST plugin support gives professionals access to thousands of additional tools and effects
As of the vendor information accessed on October 7, 2026, Stellar advertises its online service as free for one file up to 500 MB, with a paid tier for files up to 5 GB at $29.99 per file. The vendor says free-tier files are available for download within 24 hours and premium files within 48 hours, after which they are permanently deleted. These are time-sensitive vendor claims, not an independent security audit or guarantee; check the service’s current online PST repair page and terms before relying on them.
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A practical decision path
- Choose ScanPST first if the file is a PST, you can access it on Windows, and you have not yet tried Microsoft’s built-in repair procedure.
- Consider desktop software next if ScanPST has not resolved the issue and keeping the mailbox file on your computer is a priority. Check whether the product needs Outlook to preview, repair, or save the result.
- Consider an online service only if uploading the PST is acceptable and its current size cap, price, retention window, and download process fit your needs.
- Stop before escalating if the file contains sensitive or regulated mail and you cannot verify that a proposed upload or software installation is allowed.
No cited source establishes a reliable success rate or an independent head-to-head comparison of repair products. Treat previews and vendor recovery descriptions as product information, not proof that all damaged mail will be restored.
Quick Recap
Rank #3
![MixPad Multitrack Recording Software for Sound Mixing and Music Production Free [Mac Download]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51kaO82jYOL._SL160_.jpg)
- Mix an audio, music and voice tracks
- Record single or multiple tracks simultaneously
- Intuitive tools to split, trim, join, and many other editing features
- Loaded with audio effects including EQ, compression, reverb, and more.
- Load an audio file and export to all popular audio formats from studio quality wav to high compression formats
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
