What does an SRS File Store?
An SRS file holds the Send/Receive group settings of one Outlook profile. The settings include accounts, folders, schedules and offline behavior.
You edit these settings inside Outlook, not in the file. Microsoft explains the path. Select Send/Receive, then Send/Receive Groups, then Define Send/Receive Groups.
The shortcut Ctrl+Alt+S opens the same window in many Outlook versions.
Where does Outlook Save the File?
Outlook saves it in your roaming profile. The default path is C:\Users\username\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Outlook.
- Close Outlook.
- Press Windows key + R.
- Type %appdata%\Microsoft\Outlook and press Enter.
- Look for a file that ends in .srs, like Outlook.srs.
The name follows your profile name. Several profiles mean several files.
How do You Reset the Settings File?
Method #1: Rename the SRS File (Free)
- Close Outlook completely.
- Open the folder from the steps above.
- Right click the SRS file, select Rename and add .old to the name.
- Start Outlook. Outlook creates a clean default SRS file.
The reset removes your custom Send/Receive groups. Mail and accounts remain intact. Rename the file and do not delete it, so you can go back.
Reset it when Outlook crashes during send and receive, ignores your schedule or refuses to save settings. If the problem remains after the reset, the cause was elsewhere. Our Outlook data file errors guide explains data file problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an SRS File?
An SRS file stores the Send/Receive group settings of an Outlook profile.
Where is the File in Windows?
The default folder is C:\Users\username\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Outlook.
Can You Delete It?
Yes. Close Outlook first and rename the file. Outlook builds a new default file.
Does a Reset Delete Mail?
No. The reset affects Send/Receive settings only, not mail or accounts.
Why does the File Matter?
The file controls how Outlook syncs your accounts, so a damaged file can cause send and receive errors.
Can You Edit It by Hand?
Not safely. Use the Define Send/Receive Groups window in Outlook.
How Many can Exist?
One per profile. A computer with several profiles has several files.
Author's Verdict
Do not touch the file while Outlook syncs well. Rename it when send and receive fails.
A rename costs nothing and protects your mail.
Key Takeaways
- SRS stores Send/Receive settings.
- The roaming Outlook folder holds the file.
- Rename it to reset the settings.
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