
PST is Outlook's proprietary file format. Users set the password into them to enhance confidentiality. But after some time or not being used for a while, they forget their password. In this blog, we examine the tested methods to remove forgotten passwords from PST files in Outlook 2016 using manual and professional techniques, i.e., PST Password Remover.
What are PST and OST files?
PST (Personal Storage Table) and OST (Offline Storage Table) files are both used by Microsoft Outlook but serve different purposes. PST files are standalone data files that store emails, contacts, and calendar items locally on a user’s computer. They are commonly used for POP3 accounts, exporting or importing data, and archiving. PST files can be moved between systems and accessed independently in Outlook.
PST files are still actively used in modern versions of Microsoft Outlook, including Outlook 2021, Office 365 (subscription version), and earlier versions like Outlook 2019 and 2016. However, their usage has become more specific to certain scenarios as cloud-based services like Exchange and IMAP have become popular.
On the other hand, OST files are synchronized local copies of mailboxes for accounts like IMAP, Exchange, or Office 365. They enable offline access and sync changes with the server once the connection is restored. Unlike PST files, OST files are tied to the account they were created with and cannot be opened directly on another system. In essence, PST files are for personal storage and backups, while OST files facilitate offline access to server-based mailboxes.
Reasons to Remove PST Password
It is common to password-protect a PST file to secure sensitive data. However, there are many situations where the password needs to be removed. Here are some key reasons:
- Password-protected PST files can complicate access when syncing or transferring them.
- Constant password prompts are inconvenient, especially in an environment where PST files are frequently accessed.
- During email platform migrations, PST file passwords may cause compatibility issues.
- Sharing password-protected PST files among the team might be difficult.
- Merging multiple PST files into one can be hindered by password protection.
- Password-protected PST files can make recovery difficult if the file is damaged.
Removal of a PST password can improve workflow and accessibility and eliminate unnecessary barriers when done securely and responsibly.
Manual Ways to Remove Forgotten Password from PST File in Outlook 2016
You can change or set the password of a PST file from Outlook. The steps are almost the same in all versions of Outlook. Make sure you know the PST password you applied for before doing these steps. Be careful to follow the instructions.
- Open the Outlook application on your defined computer.
- Ensure that your Outlook profile already includes the PST file you wish to protect.
- Click the File tab in the top menu bar.
- From the list on the drop-down, click Account Settings, then from the drop-down list of Account Settings again.
- This tab displays all the PST and OST data files that are part of your Outlook profile.
- Look through the list and find the PST file for which you want to change or set a password.
- Choose the PST file and click on the Settings button.
- A new window labeled Outlook Data File will open.
- Click on the Change Password button in this window.
- In the Change Password dialog box, you will have the following fields:
- Old Password: If there is a pre-existing password in the PST file, type it here.
- New Password: Type the new password you would like to create.
- Verify Password: Retype the new password to confirm it.
- When you have completed the above, click OK to save the change.
- Now, the PST file is password-protected by the newly provided password.
The Outlook PST file password forgotten issue is preventing access to data. By using the above manual methods, you can remove your password and access your precious PST data.
Limitations to Remove PST Password Manually
There are a variety of ways available to manually change or remove a PST file password. However, the approaches all have certain disadvantages:
- This method requires the current password to make any changes.
- The risk of data corruption or loss faces the user when handling PST files manually.
- Manually trying to regain a forgotten password or delete it is a rather lengthy process that involves several steps.
- Some manual methods or tools can only work with specific versions of Outlook.
When manual methods fail to work or are too complicated, using professional PST password tools is advisable because they provide faster and more secure solutions that work efficiently.
Professional Ways to Remove Forgotten Password from PST File in Outlook 2016
To address the limitations of manual methods, professionals have developed a powerful PST Password Remover Tool. This tool is designed to recover all types of passwords, including long and multilingual ones. It can efficiently recover forgotten passwords from multiple PST files simultaneously. One of its key advantages is its ability to reset the PST password, even without the need for a supported email client. Follow these steps using the tool to easily bypass the PST file password issue.
Steps to Remove Forgotten Password from PST File in Outlook 2016
- Download and install the PST Password Recovery software.
- Now, select the PST file that is password protected.
- Run the recovery process by clicking the Recover option.
- For copying the password, use the copy to clipboard features.
- At last, save the file by clicking the Save option.
Conclusion
Often, users set a password for their PST file and later wish to remove it. In this blog, we have explored a manual solution to unlock a PST file's password. Several methods are outlined, and the choice of which solution to use depends on your preference. Using these methods, you remove forgotten passwords from PST files in Outlook 2016.
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