Restoring .pst file after reformatting drive.

[Mike]

I lost all my contact list after reformating my computer. I did a backup
before that and found the .pst file on the C: drive after my reinstall. Only
problem is, I can't seem to get it to link to Outlook. Also, I can't find
the .pst file on my backup though I know it is there. Any help?

 

[DL]

Within Outlook, open the data file

Depends what you used to backup as to where it is

 

[Mike]

Thanks, DL. When I downloaded the B/U, I inadvertantly set up a new "user."
I found the .pst file moved it to the new location, re-started OUTLOOK and
there is was! I appreciate your help.

 

[Brian Tillman [MVP - Outlook]]

Thanks, DL. When I downloaded the B/U, I inadvertantly set up a new "user."
I found the .pst file moved it to the new location, re-started OUTLOOK and
there is was! I appreciate your help.

Dropping a PST in to the default folder where Outlook creates them does NOT
properly connect it to Outlook. It can damage the mail profile if you
overwrite another PST with the same name.

 

[Mike]

Tks, Brian. I DID change the name on the file that was there before I moved
the file with the data. I did not overwrite. Will this do it?

 

[Brian Tillman [MVP - Outlook]]

Tks, Brian. I DID change the name on the file that was there before I moved
the file with the data. I did not overwrite. Will this do it?

No. Manipulating a PST currently connected wqith a mail profile using file
system tools can also damage the mail profile. Manipulate the files in a mail
profile using the Mail applet in Control Panel while Outlook is closed or use
File>Data File Management or File>Open>Outlook Data File from within Outlook.