Understanding OST Issues
Troubles Opening OST Files
Microsoft Outlook 2016 Isn't There
When trying to open your OST file, you get the error "Can't Open OST File Type". If this is the case, it's usually due to the fact that you do not have Microsoft Outlook 2016 for %%os%% installed on your computer. Your operating system cannot associate your OST with Microsoft Outlook 2016, so double-clicking the file won't work.
Tip: When you have another program installed that you know will open your OST, you can select it from the other programs listed (see "Show Apps").
Wrong Version of Microsoft Outlook 2016 is Installed
It is possible that your version of Microsoft Outlook 2016 isn't able to open your Outlook Offline Data File file due to incompatibility. If you do not have the proper version Microsoft Outlook 2016 (or any of the other programs listed above), you may need to try downloading a different version of it, or one of the other software applications listed above. Your Outlook Offline Data File file was probably created by a newer release of Microsoft Outlook 2016 than what's currently installed your computer.
Tip: Find clues on the correct software version by right-clicking your OST file and clicking "Properties".
Ultimately, most of the difficulties opening OST files are due to having the wrong version of Microsoft Outlook 2016 installed.
Other Causes of OST File Opening Problems
In the majority of cases, installing the right version of Microsoft Outlook 2016 will resolve your issue. If you're still experiencing problems opening OST files, there could be other computer problems. Issues that aren't software-related:
- File references in the Windows Registry for OST are wrong
- Accidental deletion of the description of the OST file in the Windows registry
- Invalid installation of a OST-associated program (eg. Microsoft Outlook 2016)
- Your OST file is corrupted (issues with your Outlook Offline Data File file itself)
- Your OST has adversely impacted by malware
- Device drivers for OST-related hardware are out-of-date
- Windows has inadequate resources to open your Outlook Offline Data File file
Quiz: How many characters long can a filename be?
That's Correct!
The sum of the individual components of a filename (eg. subdirectory / path and the final filename) are limited to 255 characters in total.
Close, but not quite...
The sum of the individual components of a filename (eg. subdirectory / path and the final filename) are limited to 255 characters in total.