Microsoft Outlook is one of the most widely used email clients, but users often encounter issues with their Outlook Data Files (.pst). When a PST file becomes corrupted, Microsoft provides a built-in tool called Scanpst.exe—also known as the Inbox Repair Tool. This tool helps scan and repair damaged Outlook data files to restore normal functionality.
However, many users struggle to locate the Scanpst.exe file on their system. If you’re using Outlook 2019, 2016, or 2013, this guide will help you find the Scanpst location easily.
Table of Contents
What is Scanpst.exe?
Scanpst.exe is a free utility provided by Microsoft that is installed automatically with Outlook. The tool scans and repairs corrupted PST files, helping fix issues like:
- Outlook crashes and slow performance
- Emails disappearing from folders
- Error messages when opening Outlook
- Failure to access stored emails and attachments
Where to Find Scanpst.exe in Outlook 2019, 2016, and 2013?
The location of the Scanpst.exe file depends on the version of Outlook and whether you have a 32-bit or 64-bit installation. Below are the paths to find the tool:
For Outlook 2019 and 2016
- For 32-bit Outlook on 64-bit Windows: C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\root\Office16
- For 64-bit Outlook on 64-bit Windows: C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\root\Office16
For Outlook 2013
- For 32-bit Outlook on 64-bit Windows: C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\Office15
- For 64-bit Outlook on 64-bit Windows: C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office15
If you installed Outlook as part of an Office 365 subscription, the location is usually:
- C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\root\Office16
- or
- C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\root\Office16
How to Use Scanpst.exe to Repair Your PST File
Once you’ve found the Scanpst.exe file, follow these steps to repair your PST file:
- Close Outlook to prevent conflicts.
- Navigate to the Scanpst.exe location and double-click it.
- Click Browse and select the PST file that needs repair. PST files are usually located at:
C:\Users\YourUsername\Documents\Outlook Files - Click Start to begin scanning.
- If issues are detected, click Repair to fix them.
- Once the process is complete, restart Outlook.
What to Do If Scanpst.exe Fails?
While Scanpst.exe is a useful tool, it has limitations. If it fails to repair your PST file, you may need to try alternative solutions:
- Restore from a Backup: If you have a recent backup of your PST file, use it.
- Create a New PST File: You can create a new PST file and import emails from the corrupted file.
- Use Professional Recovery Tools: Various third-party tools are available that provide advanced PST repair options.
Conclusion
Finding the Scanpst.exe tool in Outlook 2019, 2016, and 2013 is straightforward if you know where to look. This built-in repair tool can resolve common Outlook issues, but if it fails, consider other recovery methods. Regularly backing up your Outlook data can save time and prevent data loss in case of file corruption. If you experience frequent problems, consulting an Outlook expert or using professional recovery software may be a better long-term solution.