Email Sync Problems

How to Fix Outlook Data File (PST) Synchronization Errors with OneDrive

Ayan Masood Oct 19, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is experiencing email send/receive errors and synchronization warnings in Outlook because their PST data file is stored in a OneDrive synchronized folder.

How to Fix Outlook Data File Synchronization Errors with OneDrive

Product: Microsoft Outlook
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Accessing or synchronizing an Outlook data file (PST) that is currently located inside a OneDrive cloud storage folder.
Observed behavior: Outlook displays send-and-receive errors, repeated synchronization warnings, missing folders, or corrupted data file alerts.

Before you start

Ensure Outlook is completely closed before attempting to move any data files, and verify that OneDrive is currently running so it can release any active file locks.

Solution 1Recommended

Move the Outlook Data File to a Local Unsynced Folder

Safely relocate your PST file to a local drive path that OneDrive does not sync to prevent file locking and corruption.

Cloud synchronization services like OneDrive can lock PST files while they are in use by Outlook. Because Outlook continuously reads and writes to the data file, OneDrive's constant attempt to sync these changes leads to synchronization failures, sending errors, and potential data corruption. To resolve this, the file must reside in a strictly local directory.

Locate the Data File

Open Outlook, click on the 'File' tab in the upper-left corner, select 'Account Settings', and then click 'Account Settings' from the drop-down menu. Go to the 'Data Files' tab, select your account's data file, and click 'Open File Location' to open the folder in Windows Explorer.

Close Outlook

Leave the Windows Explorer folder open, but close the Outlook application completely to ensure the data file is no longer in use.

Move the File Out of OneDrive

Cut the .pst file from its current OneDrive folder and paste it into a local folder that is not synchronized by OneDrive (for example, C:\Users\[YourName]\Documents\Outlook Files).

Reconnect the File in Outlook

Reopen Outlook. The application will warn you that the data file cannot be found. Follow the prompt to browse to the new local folder where you pasted the file, select it, and click 'OK' to restore your email access.

Move the Outlook Data File to a Local Unsynced Folder

Solution 2

Redirect the Email Account to the Correct Folder

Use this method if Outlook displays sync errors related to misdirected folders after you have moved your data file.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneDrive cause errors with Outlook PST files?

OneDrive continuously attempts to sync file changes to the cloud. Since Outlook constantly modifies the PST file while open, OneDrive can lock the file during synchronization. This conflict prevents Outlook from accessing its own data, causing read/write errors, sync warnings, and potential data corruption.

Can I use Outlook with cloud storage at all?

You should not store local PST data files in cloud-synced folders. However, you can safely use modern cloud-based mailboxes like Microsoft Exchange, Outlook.com, or IMAP accounts. These store emails on a remote server and use an OST file locally, securely syncing your emails without relying on OneDrive's folder sync mechanism.

What if I can't find the 'Account Settings' option in Outlook?

In the classic Outlook desktop application, 'Account Settings' is located under the 'File' tab in the top-left corner. If you are using the 'New Outlook' for Windows or the web version, the interface relies entirely on cloud accounts and does not use local PST data files.

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

If moving the file out of OneDrive does not resolve the send-and-receive errors or if Outlook refuses to open the file entirely, it may be corrupted. You can run the built-in Inbox Repair Tool (SCANPST.EXE) provided in the Microsoft Office installation folder to scan and repair structural errors in your data file.

Outlook & Email Problems