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Help with Outlook

Wanda Sands 0 Reputation points
2025-12-05T18:04:46.2833333+00:00

I did a Windows update and after the everything on my computer started to go haywire And switch my Outlook into my GMail. Then it wouldn't let me get into any of it, I was trying to recover it and do all the little steps that It said to take, but it didn't work however, I was able to get my some of my stuff back, but I can't get into Outlook at all. It's telling me I don't have a data file and I do. I use my desktop every day so I really need to get it back because I can't send emails out at all. There is no reset for the data file password. I It's been a long time and I can't find what I wrote the password on and I can't change the password which I did try to do. If I was able to change my password on the data file I would be able to get my Outlook up and running because it is asking for the password for the data file

Outlook | Windows | Classic Outlook for Windows | For home
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  1. Q&A Assist
    2025-12-05T18:05:01.84+00:00
    AI generated content. This question contains an answer created with AI from Q&A Assist. Learn more

    It sounds like you're experiencing a few issues with Outlook after a Windows update. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the problems:

    1. Check Data File: Ensure that your Outlook data file (.pst or .ost) is correctly configured. If Outlook is unable to find the data file, you may need to create a new profile or repair the existing one.
      • To create a new profile, go to Control Panel > User Accounts > Mail > Show Profiles. From there, you can add a new profile and set it as the default.
    2. Repair Outlook Data File: Use the Inbox Repair tool (Scanpst.exe) to diagnose and repair errors in your .pst or .ost file. This tool can help fix issues with the file structure that may be preventing Outlook from accessing your data.
    3. Password Recovery: If you're being prompted for a password for your data file and cannot remember it, unfortunately, there is no built-in reset option for the data file password in Outlook. You may need to use third-party software to recover or remove the password if you cannot access the file.
    4. Reinstall Outlook: If the above steps do not resolve the issue, consider reinstalling Outlook. This can help reset any configurations that may have been altered during the Windows update.
    5. Check for Updates: Ensure that you have the latest updates installed for both Windows and Outlook, as these updates can fix bugs and improve performance.

    If these steps do not resolve your issue, you may want to consult with Microsoft support for further assistance.

    References:

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  2. Rez 10,615 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-12-05T19:26:28.5733333+00:00

    Hi Wanda,

    It seems Outlook is asking for your PST file password after the update. This occurs when Outlook can't access a password-protected file, and there isn't a reset option.

    Do you still have the original PST file? If so, Outlook should work after entering the password.

    If you've lost the password, you can try a PST password recovery tool or create a new Outlook profile.

    Before proceeding, check under File > Account Settings > Data Files for the PST file. Is Gmail the only account listed? Let me know.

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