How to Fix the Error: "Outlook PST in use and cannot be accessed"

Most of you already know that Outlook contains all the data files such as PST files and OST data on their system. These files contain all mailbox items such as Contacts, Inbox, Notes, Calendar, Journals, and etc. However, due to several reasons, Outlook data can be damaged and become inaccessible. To avoid landing in trouble, it is suggested that the users become aware of the problem that triggers corruption in PST data and how a user can fix the problem.

What Are The Reasons That Triggers The Errors?

Most of the users get the error displayed on their screen, "Outlook.pst is in use and cannot be accessed. Close any application that is using the file, and then try again. You might need to restart your computer.

Incorrect shutting of Outlook leading outlook.exe to run.
PST data running in the background.
When there is faulty Add-ins.
Corruption of PST data.
In some cases, anti-virus software deletes data leading the PST data to become inaccessible.

Ways to Fix the Common Error

Open Outlook and go to the 'Task Manager' and 'Process' button.
Type 'Outlook' and exit them all.
Now, exit from the 'Task Manager'.
Restart Outlook.

The user can also use the Inbox Repair Tool to fix PST files and access the data. However, make a note of the fact that fixing the error by using the manual method is not the right choice as it is a tedious procedure and the users might make a mistake causing corruption of the entire data. It is recommended to avoid using the manual method as it is too risky to perform the steps as even one incorrect step can erase the entire data.

Fix the Error by Using PST Recovery Software

PST Recovery tool is one of the safest ways to retrieve PST files in just a few steps. The advanced software ensures 100 % positive result to its users and extracts all data without losing a single file. The software has an array of features that make the whole conversion of files easier and faster.

Highlighting Features of PST Recovery Software

The PST Recovery software allows the user to convert PST data into numerous file formats such as MBOX, HTML, PDF, MSG, EML, EMLX, and etc.
The user can convert highly-encrypted; password protected and corrupted data using the software.
The PST recovery tool enables the user to preview the entire data using the 'Preview' option.

Summary

If you are getting this message displayed on the screen, "Outlook.pst is in use and cannot be accessed. Close any application that is using the file, and then try again. You might need to restart your computer" then don't worry as you can use an advanced PST Recovery software to fix the error and retrieve your data safely.