Email Sync Problems

How to Fix Outlook Access Errors Caused by a OneDrive-Synced PST File

Maira Mehtab Oct 9, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user needs to resolve an issue where Outlook cannot access data files and missing features like Send/Receive because OneDrive is stuck syncing the PST file.

How to Fix Outlook Access Errors Caused by a OneDrive-Synced PST File

Product: Microsoft Outlook
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: Using Microsoft Outlook while OneDrive is actively attempting to sync the Outlook data files.
Observed behavior: OneDrive gets stuck on 'Preparing for upload' when syncing a PST file. Consequently, Outlook throws an error stating the data file cannot be accessed, the Send/Receive option disappears, and other files become unavailable.

Before you start

Ensure that Microsoft Outlook is completely closed and OneDrive sync is paused before attempting to move your PST files or run an application repair.

Solution 1Recommended

Move the PST File Locally and Reconnect to Outlook

Outlook PST data files require continuous read/write access and should not be stored in cloud or network locations like OneDrive. Moving them to a local directory resolves sync and access conflicts.

Cloud synchronization services like OneDrive lock files while uploading. Because Outlook constantly reads and writes to the active PST file, storing it in a OneDrive folder creates a file lock conflict, leading to severe application errors.

Exclude the PST file from OneDrive

Open your OneDrive settings, navigate to the Sync and Backup tab, and pause syncing or manually exclude the folder containing your Outlook PST file.

Move the PST file to a local folder

Navigate to the OneDrive folder where your PST file is currently stored. Cut the file and paste it into a purely local directory, such as C:\Users\[YourUsername]\Documents\Outlook Files.

Reconnect the PST file in Outlook

Open Microsoft Outlook. Go to File > Info > Account Settings > Account Settings. Switch to the Data Files tab, click 'Add', and browse to the new local folder to select your moved PST file.

Move the PST File Locally and Reconnect to Outlook

Data Integrity: Moving the PST file while Outlook is closed is completely safe and ensures all your emails, contacts, and calendar items are preserved.

Solution 2

Run a Quick Repair for Microsoft Office

If Outlook components like the Send/Receive button are still missing or corrupted after moving the PST file, running a Quick Repair will fix the application files.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Looking for a Hassle-Free Office Suite? Try WPS Office

If you are tired of dealing with complex cloud sync issues, locked files, and application errors in Microsoft Office, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible alternative for handling your daily documents without heavy overhead.

1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installation package for your device.
2. Install the Application: Run the installer and follow the straightforward on-screen instructions to set up the software.
3. Open Your Files: Launch WPS Office and directly open your existing DOCX, XLSX, or PPTX files with perfect formatting compatibility.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint file formats.Lightweight installation with zero forced cloud sync lock-ins.Familiar user interface that requires no learning curve.Free built-in PDF editing tools for comprehensive document management.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can't I store my Outlook PST file in OneDrive?

Active PST files require continuous read and write access by Microsoft Outlook. Cloud syncing services like OneDrive lock the file while attempting to upload it, which blocks Outlook from accessing the data and causes crashes or severe sync errors.

How do I exclude a folder from OneDrive sync?

Open OneDrive Settings, go to the 'Sync and back up' tab, click 'Manage back up', and toggle off the folders you do not want to sync. Alternatively, manually move your PST file to a local path like C:\LocalFolder outside the synced Documents directory.

Will I lose my emails if I move the PST file?

No. Moving the PST file while Outlook is fully closed safely retains all your locally stored emails, contacts, and calendar events. You simply need to point Outlook to the file's new location.

What is the difference between Quick Repair and Online Repair in Office?

Quick Repair fixes corrupted or missing files locally without needing an internet connection, completing in just a few minutes. Online Repair completely redownloads and reinstalls Office components to fix more complex issues, which takes longer and requires internet access.

Outlook & Email Problems