Can You Remove a PST Password?
Yes, in two cases. You remember the old password, or you use a password remover for files with a forgotten password.
Microsoft states that it cannot recover a lost PST password. Microsoft advises a password protected Windows account as a better way to restrict access to your data.
| Case | Method | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| You know the password | Outlook Change Password | Free |
| You forgot the password | PST Password Remover | Paid after demo |
How do You Remove a Password You Remember?
Method #1: Outlook Change Password (Free)
Who it suits. Users who know the current password. Extra application. Outlook.
- Open Outlook and select File, then Account Settings and Account Settings.
- Open the Data Files tab and select the PST file.
- Select Settings, then Change Password.
- Enter the old password and clear the new password boxes.
- Select OK.
Microsoft notes that Change Password does not appear for an OST file, because you cannot set a password on an Offline Outlook Data File. Microsoft 365, Exchange and Outlook.com accounts use OST files.
What if You Forgot the PST Password?
Method #2: PST Password Remover (Paid After Demo)
Who it suits. Users and admins with forgotten passwords or many protected files. Extra application. PST Password Remover.
The PST Password Remover removes the password from ANSI and Unicode PST files and needs no Outlook. It adds files one by one, from folders or from a drive search, and processes them together. The demo shows which files carry a lock, and the paid version removes the password.
- Install the software and add the PST files or the folder.
- Check the lock icons in the list.
- Select the files and choose a save location.
- Select Remove and open the new file in Outlook.
Work on a copy of the file. Our PST file guide explains the format, and the PST repair tool guide suits damaged files.
What should You do After You Remove the Password?
- Open the file in Outlook and check a few folders.
- Set a new password if the file needs one.
- Backup the PST file to a safe place.
- Use a Windows account password for stronger protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Outlook Remove a PST Password?
Yes, if you remember the old password. Use Change Password in the data file settings and clear the new password.
Can Microsoft Recover a Forgotten PST Password?
No. Microsoft states that it cannot retrieve the password.
Why is Change Password Missing?
You selected an OST file. Microsoft states that you cannot set a password on an Offline Outlook Data File.
Does the Password Remover Need Outlook?
No. The vendor page states that it works on its own.
Does It Work on ANSI and Unicode PST Files?
Yes. The vendor page lists both types.
Can You Remove Passwords From Many PST Files at Once?
Yes. The tool adds many files or entire folders and processes them together.
Is the Demo Enough to Remove a Password?
No. The demo shows which files carry a lock. The paid version removes the password.
Author's Verdict
Use Outlook Change Password if you remember the password, because it costs nothing.
Use a remover for forgotten passwords and work on a copy.
Key Takeaways
- Outlook removes a PST password only with the old one.
- Microsoft cannot get a lost password back.
- OST files cannot carry a password.
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