Outlook Data File is Already in Use in the Current Profile

Did you know that Microsoft revised its Outlook Data File is already in use retention policy in August 2021? There has been a lot of concern in the community since the announcement about how the move will affect individuals and what they should do to avoid data loss. In this blog post, we’ll explain the change and how it will affect your email backup.

I had to make backups after my laptop, which had Outlook installed, failed. My.pst backup must now be imported into Outlook 2010. When I try to import the PST file, I receive an error message indicating that the outlook data file (.pst) is already in use in the current profile, but I don’t see any data or contacts. Please lend a hand in resolving this issue.

Name conflicts, the PST file’s read-only attributes, an incorrect PST file location, a corrupted Outlook data file, and a variety of other issues can all contribute to the PST file already in use problem. You won’t be able to access your Outlook.pst file if this problem arises. However, the corresponding solutions for resolving the issue based on these distinct reasons are listed below. “This Outlook data file is already in use in the current profile.”

Method 1: Double-check for Naming Conflicts

It’s possible that the name of the personal folder file being imported into the client is conflicting. The reason for this might be that ‘This Personal Folders file (.pst) is already in use in the current profile.’ It’s conceivable that a PST file with an identical name already exists in the application. Renaming and importing the current data file is the only method to remedy this.

Method 2: Double-check the file’s read-only Status for the Outlook Data file is Already in Use

This might be a problem if the data file is saved on a CD or DVD. An error message such as ‘Outlook Data File is already in Use’ may appear. Before proceeding, this status must be changed. The steps to make the modification are as follows:

1). Select Properties from the drop-down menu when right-clicking on the PST file.

2) In the ‘Outlook Properties’ tab, make sure the ‘Read-Only’ option is selected.

3). Then, to begin eliminating any errors with your profile, click the Next button. For instance, ‘This Personal Folders file (.pst) is already in use in the current profile.’

4). Then repeat the import operation to check if the problem persists.

Method 3: Move the Default Outlook PST File

It’s conceivable that the path to the default PST file in Outlook is incorrect. To change the path’s position, use the following methods:

1. Select Open File Location from the File>>Account Settings>>Data File tab.
2. Next, check to see if the Outlook data file is already in use (.pst) is present. If it doesn’t work, try searching for it by name or re-adding it manually.

Method 4: Use the Open Feature in Outlook 2013 and 2016

There is another way to import a PST file into a desktop email client. The following are the steps to remove the notification ‘This Personal Folders file (.pst) is already in use in the current profile.’

To begin, go to the File menu and choose File>>Open>>Open Outlook Data File.

Then, using the Open button, go to the folder directory containing the PST file.

Using a Different Approach to Fixing Outlook Profile

Any company searching for a skilled answer to typical email client concerns will find it here. On a daily basis, businesses face a range of challenges. A normal manual process can be used to resolve these concerns. Invasive methods, such as third-party software like the Outlook PST Repair Tool, are necessary. These are more efficient, speedier, and more convenient.

These are wonderful tools that won’t cost you a fortune. Above all, these are simple software that does not necessitate the use of any other software. It’s a stand-alone tool that doesn’t require you to install or configure a personal desktop client.

A step-by-step Solution to Outlook Data File is Already in use

• Download and run the software in your OS.
• Click on Add file option and your PST file data.
• After that, the software repairs your PST file and gets a complete preview.
• Click on Export Button and select the PST option from the drop-down menu.
• Now, select the destination location to save the conversion.
• Finally, click on the Export button and start the process.

Conclusion

By reading the article, you’ll discover why you’re seeing the message “the Outlook data file is already in use the current profile.” Following that, we’ve presented a list of possible solutions to the problem. However, if your PST files are destroyed, manual procedures will not be able to fix the issue. To repair those corrupted files, we recommend utilizing an automated application that can swiftly restore the damaged PST files to their original state while preserving all data.