Know How to Locate and Use Microsoft ScanPST.exe Easily
It seems that you are fighting the problem and looking for the right approach to Locate ScanPST.exe and use it. If yes, then this technical column will delve deep into the discussion of scanPST.exe location in Windows 32-bit and 64-bit systems. Moreover, we will provide a quick guide to find the exact location of scanPST.exe (Inbox Repair Tool) for Outlook versions 2021, 2019, 2016, 2013, etc. So, are you guys ready to discover the easiest method to find scanPST.exe for Outlook? Let us start our discussion by understanding the common reasons for using Microsoft’s inbox repair tool.
Why Use MS Outlook ScanPST.exe?
Fix PST File Errors: PST files are crucial data files of Outlook that contain emails, contacts, calendars, and other critical information. However, these files sometimes may have some errors due to which users cannot access their important information. To overcome such Outlook PST errors users are often required to locate and use scanPST.exe.
Resolve Outlook Startup Errors: There are instances when the Outlook data file is unable to load due to minor errors in its internal structure. To fix such startup errors Outlook offers a free solution named scanPST.exe that can fix minor errors in PST files.
Prevent Data Loss: Another prominent reason to use scanPST.exe is to prevent data loss. If your Outlook data file gets corrupted you might be unable to access your critical information such as emails, contacts, calendars, events, etc.
Free Built Solution: Unlike third-party solutions with price tags. This inbuilt Outlook solution is a completely free solution with no extra cost. Outlook users can use this solution to fix minor PST files errors before going with any other third-party solutions.
How to Find the Location of ScanPST.exe in Windows for Different Outlook Versions?
For years to years, Microsoft has released various versions of Outlook for both Windows 32-bit and Windows 64-bit systems. All the versions of Outlook including 2013, 2016, 2019, 2021, etc. have different locations of scanPST.exe depending upon Windows 32-bit or 64-bit architecture. Below we have described the detailed scanpst.exe location in a detailed structure manner for all major versions of Outlook in Windows 11, 10, 8, 8.1, XP, 7, etc.
| Outlook Versions | Windows 32-bit(x86) versions | Windows 64-bit(x64) |
| Outlook 2021 | C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\root\Office21\ | C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\root\Office21\ |
| Outlook 2019 | C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\root\Office19\ | C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\root\Office19\ |
| Outlook 2016 | C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\root\Office16\ | C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\root\Office16\ |
| Outlook 2013 | C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\Office15\ | C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office15\ |
| Outlook 2010 | C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\Office14\ | C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office14\ |
| Outlook 2007 | C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\Office12\ | C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office12\ |
Find ScanPST Location Using Task Manager.
We also have a better way to locate ScanPST.exe on your computer. It works regardless of your Windows and Outlook versions.
- Run Microsoft Outlook.
- Right-click on your taskbar and select Task Manager.
- Here, you will see Microsoft Outlook in processes.
- Right-click on it and select Open file location.
- In the location that appears, scroll down and find the ScanPST.exe
These steps will open the location where Outlook is installed on your computer. This is exactly where you will find the Inbox Repair utility i.e., ScanPST.exe.
How to Locate ScanPST.exe using Windows Run Command?
- Initially, launch the run the dialog box by pressing the Win + R button.
- Next enter the below provided path and press enter.
%ProgramFiles%\Microsoft Office\root\OfficeXX\ScanPST.exe - If it, does not work try using the path as.
%ProgramFiles%\Microsoft Office\root\OfficeXX\ScanPST.exe.
Note: Replace XX in the path with the actual version number of Outlook. Please walkthrough to the below provided tabular data to discover the version number of the respective Outlook version.
What is the Outlook Version Number Concerning their Versions?
| Outlook Versions | Outlook Version Number (XX in the path) |
| Outlook 2021 | 21 |
| Outlook 2019 | 19 |
| Outlook 2016 | 16 |
| Outlook 2013 | 15 |
| Outlook 2010 | 14 |
| Outlook 2007 | 12 |
Now let us start our discussion on how to practically use scanPST.exe to fix minor PST file errors.
How to Open and Use Microsoft Outlook Inbox Repair Tool?
- After locating scanPST.exe location double click on it to run the Inbox repair tool.
- Now, click on the Browse button the add the PST file for repair in the utility.
- Next, click on the Start button to start repairing the PST file using scanPST.exe.
- Finally, by going with the above steps you can easily use scanPST.exe to fix PST files.
Read Also: How to Repair Outlook PST File with/without ScanPST.exe?
How Outlook Inbox Repair Tool Works Internally?
The ScanPST.exe inbox repair tool works internally on the structures and header of the PST file format to fix minor issues. Below we have described the broader key points on the internal working of scanPST.exe.
- The internal working of scanPST.exe begins with header validation to validate the original PST file.
- Next, it will validate the structural integrity of the file like tables, indexes, and records.
- After that, scanPST.exe will check for the consistency of the table and folders present in the PST file structure.
- Then, scanPST will fix all the detected issues and rebuild the indexes to correct the file errors.
- Finally, the scanPST.exe will provide you a detailed log report for the issues and fixes done by the tool.
What to Do If Scanpst.exe Fails?
Keep in mind that ScanPST is a tool that may need to be run multiple times to fully resolve issues with your Outlook Data File (PST). Even if it appears to have successfully repaired your file, it’s advisable to run it again to confirm that no further inconsistencies remain.
If ScanPST fails to resolve the issues after running it multiple times, you have two options available:
- Continue running ScanPST: You can attempt to run ScanPST again, as sometimes it may succeed in repairing the file after subsequent attempts.
- Consider alternative solutions: If ScanPST consistently fails to repair the PST file, it may be necessary to explore alternative solutions, such as using the BitRecover PST repair tool or seeking assistance from IT professionals familiar with Outlook.
Conclusion
In conclusion in the blog on the topic of how to locate and use scanPST.exe, we have initiated our discussion by understanding the need for scanPST.exe inbox repair tool. Thereafter, we see the top 3 ways to find and locate scanPST.exe including direct version-wise location and with task manager & Windows run command. Additionally, we have discussed how to use scanPST with a detailed discussion of its internal workings. Lastly, we have covered what to do if scanPST.exe fails.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How to download scanPST.exe?
You do not need to download scanPST on your device. It comes with your Outlook installation. You are only required to find scanPST based on the above guide to resolve your PST errors.
Q2. How to check If you have 32-bit or 64-bit Windows?
To check you have 32-bit or 64-bit Windows on your desktop. Press the Win + I button and go to the system tab >> About section. Now look for device specifications >> System type. Finally, check if your Windows is 32-bit or 64-bit.
Q3. I am unable to find the scanPST.exe location.
If you are unable to find the scanPST.exe location it is recommended to check the installation type of Outlook. i.e. you have Outlook 32-bit installed or Outlook 64-bit install. Since the 32-bit Outlook location is under C:\Program Files (x86)\. On the other side, the 64-bit Outlook default location of scanPST.exe is C:\Program Files\.
Q4. How to download ScanPST if it is missing from my computer?
If scanPST.exe is missing from your computer you may use the above provided guide to locate your version of Outlook. Alternatively, go to the Control Panel >> Programs >> Programs and Features section. After that, click on Microsoft Office the click change >> repair.