Outlook.OST Cannot Be Accessed Configured for Use with A Different Mailbox

Error Code: Filename.ost cannot be accessed because it has been configured for use with a different mailbox.

Applies to: Microsoft Outlook 2003, Microsoft Outlook 2007, Microsoft Outlook 2010, Microsoft Outlook 2013 and Microsoft Outlook 2016.

Symptoms:

When you start Microsoft Outlook, try to import moved OST file or attempt to access existing OST file in a newly created user profile, the error “OST cannot be accessed because it has been configured for use with a different mailbox” appears on-screen and prevents you from accessing Outlook.

Cause:

This error can occur if,

• Another exchange account with same name and different credentials (on a different server) uses the same profile (the same OST file)
• Outlook data file is damaged or corrupted
• OST file is linked with an Exchange server mailbox, and Outlook cannot access the associated mailbox or it starts mailbox synchronization with offline folders in the OST file
• You are trying to access OST file on different account

Resolution:

Step 1: Login with old username (it should be a cached login), which you had used while creating the OST file for the first time.

Open Outlook and export the OST file data into PST format.

Next, log in as system Administrator and take ownership of the OST file; then import it.

Step 2: Press Windows + R keys together.

Type Outlook /resetnavpane (give space between Outlook and /) and hit Enter key.

Now, try to access your OST file in a new Outlook profile.

Step 3: Find Outlook (.exe) in,

For Windows 7 32bit system: C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\OfficeX

For Windows 7 64bit system: C:\Program Files(x86)\Microsoft Office\OfficeX

(X varies depending on the version of your Outlook application)

Right click on Outlook (.exe) and select Properties.

Under Compatibility, uncheck all the boxes.

Step 4: Close Outlook and go to Start menu.

In Run window, type C:\Program Files\Common Files\System\Mapi\LocaleID\scanost.exe

(LocaleID is the locale identifier (LCID) for your Microsoft Office installation)

Click OK and opt for Scan all folders.

Enable Repair errors and Begin Scan.

What If Above Fixes Don’t Work?

In case, above common fixes failed to work and you don’t want to lose your OST file data, then converting OST to PST format would be the last (best) solution. And, when it comes to OST to PST conversion, it is recommended to use Yodot OST to PST Converter to complete the conversion process in the easiest and most efficient way ever possible.

Why Yodot OST to PST Converter?

This PST converter software safely converts all data in your OST file to PST format, including emails, calendar entries, tasks, and more, even for encrypted (password-protected) OST files. You can also preview the converted PST file within the tool.

It’s a reliable solution for issues like the “OST cannot be accessed because it has been configured for use with a different mailbox” error, as well as OST file corruption or damage that prevents access to your default Outlook profile.ost. Plus, 24/7 technical support is available to assist you.

Steps to Convert OST- Configured for Different Mailbox into PST:

Step 1: Install Yodot OST to PST Converter software on your Computer.

Step 2: Run the installed OST to PST converter and go with one option among,

• Open OST File - if you know the location of OST file
• Find OST File - if you don't know the location of OST file

Step 3: Specify the destination path to store the converted OST file.

Step 4: Click on Convert button to start OST to PST conversion process.

After the conversion, a confirmation message will flash on the screen.

Frequently Asked Questions

1: How to fix Outlook OST cannot be accessed?
Use Yodot PST converter software to convert the OST file to PST format. Alternatively, create a new Outlook profile, re-sync with the Exchange server, or repair the OST file using Outlook’s ScanPST tool.

2: How do I get permission to open another mailbox in Outlook?
Contact your Exchange administrator to grant you access permissions for the mailbox. Then, in Outlook, go to File > Account Settings > Delegate Access or add the mailbox via Account Settings > Add Account.

3: Why is my OST file not being recognized?
The OST file may be corrupted, linked to a different mailbox, or moved to a new profile. Convert it to PST format using a PST converter software, repair it with ScanPST, or recreate the Outlook profile.

4: How do you fix your Outlook data file cannot be configured?
Create a new Outlook profile, convert the OST file to PST format using a PST converter software, or repair the file with ScanPST. Ensure the file path is correct and accessible.