OneDrive File Issues

How to Fix OneDrive Sync Errors for Outlook PST Files

Maira Mehtab Oct 8, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user needs to resolve synchronization errors caused by OneDrive blocking Outlook PST files.

How to Fix OneDrive Sync Errors for Outlook PST Files

Product: Microsoft OneDrive and Microsoft Outlook
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Syncing Outlook data files (PST) to OneDrive or other cloud-synchronized network locations.
Observed behavior: OneDrive blocks the PST files from synchronizing due to organizational restricted file-type policies, or the PST files become corrupted from being used in a cloud-synchronized folder.

Before you start

Before attempting to move or troubleshoot your files, make sure Microsoft Outlook is completely closed to prevent data locking and potential file corruption.

Solution 1Recommended

Move and Store Your PST File Locally

The safest and most reliable way to prevent corruption and synchronization errors is to store your Outlook PST files on your local drive rather than a cloud folder.

Microsoft strongly advises against using active Outlook data files (.pst) from a network, LAN, or cloud-synchronized location like OneDrive. Continuously syncing an active PST file can cause immediate file corruption and persistent syncing conflicts.

Close Microsoft Outlook

Ensure Microsoft Outlook is completely closed on your computer.

Locate the PST file

Open File Explorer and navigate to your OneDrive folder where the problematic PST file is currently stored.

Move to a local folder

Copy the PST file and paste it into a local directory that is not synced by OneDrive, such as C:\Users\[YourUsername]\Documents\Outlook Files.

Reconnect the PST file in Outlook

Open Outlook, go to File > Info > Account Settings > Account Settings, and select the Data Files tab.

Add the local file

Click 'Add' to browse and select the newly moved local PST file, set it as default if necessary, and remove the old OneDrive path from the list.

Prevention: Moving the file locally completely eliminates OneDrive sync errors for your Outlook data while preserving file integrity.

Solution 2

Contact IT Administrator to Review Policy Restrictions

If you are using OneDrive for Business and PST files are blocked, you will need to contact your IT administrator to adjust the organization's policies.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneDrive block Outlook PST files from syncing?

OneDrive often blocks PST files because organizations can set tenant-level policies restricting specific file types to save bandwidth. Additionally, syncing active PST files while Outlook is running can lead to severe data corruption, prompting administrators to block them intentionally.

Can I backup my Outlook PST file to OneDrive?

Yes, you can manually backup a PST file to OneDrive, but it should not be actively used or opened by Outlook while residing in the synced folder. Always ensure Outlook is closed before copying the PST file to your OneDrive folder for backup purposes.

How do I know if my PST file is already corrupted from cloud syncing?

If your PST file is corrupted, Outlook may fail to open, crash frequently, or display error messages stating that the data file cannot be accessed. You can use the built-in Microsoft Inbox Repair Tool (SCANPST.EXE) to diagnose and fix underlying corruption.

Document & File Issues