pst file problem

[sagebishop]

I opened a .pst file using explorer and "open with outlook". The file size then changed from 390mb to 64kb. When I tried to import the file to outlook, I received a message indicating it was not a .pst file. I read that opening a .pst file with explorer can corrupt the file. How can I get the data (emails, contact, etc) back.

[bittermann]

Do you have a backup? A system restore may be your only "hail mary" option.

[ShaidarHaran]

If you're running win 7 or 8 and have file restore/file history on, try this:

http://www.howtogeek.com/209080/how-to-restore-previous-versions-of-a-file-on-any-operating-system/

Otherwise, you'll need to look at some kind of recovery software.

[ShaidarHaran]

Do you have a backup? A system restore may be your only "hail mary" option.

System Restore only restores system files and settings. I see people recommend this all the time and it's just not correct advice.

[bittermann]

System Restore only restores system files and settings. I see people recommend this all the time and it's just not correct advice.

yup...that''s why I said "hail mary"...didn't think it would work but if you have system protection (previous files) turned on it will. Once you mess up a pst file you'd better have a backup or turn on system protection.

[ShaidarHaran]

There is zero chance System Restore will restore personal files.

What files are changed during a system restore?
System Restore affects Windows system files, programs, and registry settings. It can also make changes to scripts, batch files, and other types of executable files created under any user account on your computer. System Restore does not affect personal files, such as e-mail, documents, or photos, so it cannot help you restore a deleted file. If you have backups of your files, you can restore the files from a backup.

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/system-restore-faq#1TC=windows-7

[bittermann]

Please re-read my post. Not trying to argue with you since we have the ability here at work. You need to turn that option on. But I see your point of certain files only.

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/w...#1TC=windows-7

[ShaidarHaran]

Please re-read my post. Not trying to argue with you since we have the ability here at work. You need to turn that option on. But I see your point of certain files only.

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/w...#1TC=windows-7

My point is that you appear to be getting your terminology mixed up. System Restore does only what is described in my previous post. File restore/file history is not the same thing at all, so when you say "try a system restore as a hail mary", that advice will not serve any purpose other than to waste time. I understand you have good intentions, I do not fault you for trying to help, but when giving technical advice we need to be technically accurate.

[bittermann]

My point is that you appear to be getting your terminology mixed up. System Restore does only what is described in my previous post. File restore/file history is not the same thing at all, so when you say "try a system restore as a hail mary", that advice will not serve any purpose other than to waste time. I understand you have good intentions, I do not fault you for trying to help, but when giving technical advice we need to be technically accurate.

Yup...agreed, my bad. Not that it should hurt but waste time like you said. I know most people aren't even aware of previous versions to turn them on. In dealing with pst files you'd better have a backup if it goes south...I know some employees that get teary eyed when you tell them the pst file is corrupt.

[ShaidarHaran]

Yup...agreed, my bad. Not that it should hurt but waste time like you said. I know most people aren't even aware of previous versions to turn them on. In dealing with pst files you'd better have a backup if it goes south...I know some employees that get teary eyed when you tell them the pst file is corrupt.

PSTs were at one point in my career the bane of my existence. Locally-managed PSTs are a horrible idea. Exchange and webmail are the best options, IMAP configured accounts being the next best thing.

[VW_Factor]

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/272227

Done

[Lupine]

This thread is making my spam spidy senses tingle.

[bittermann]

The pst repair tool is good for corrupted boxes but if the information is gone there is nothing to fix but to make it readable again by Outlook. In this case it might be worth a shot though so good call.

[ShaidarHaran]

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/272227

Done

If the file size changed that means data has been lost. The inbox repair tool won't be able to help in this case.

This thread is making my spam spidy senses tingle.

Me too.

[Trunks0]

Assuming the file size is being reported correctly.

God I hate *.pst files.

[VW_Factor]

If the file size changed that means data has been lost. The inbox repair tool won't be able to help in this case.



Me too.

The original file size likely didn't change.

64kb is probably the "default size" upon startup of Office on a new install. He's lost or misplaced the original .pst somewhere.

Office should even rename the old .pst to prevent it from being overwritten.

There are plenty of ways and tools to work with .pst files. Its not a difficult thing to do. A 390mb .pst doesn't just go poof to 64kb. Small variances occur at times, and should revert after repair.

[ShaidarHaran]

OP banned, guess we were all trolled