HELP! I just tried to start up my MS Outlook only to receive the following message: 'Outlook could not open the file containing the folders used to send and receive e-mail messages, create appointments and open the address book.' It then prompts me to select between creating a new personal folders file or opening an exiting personal folder file. Everything was just fine until now. Can anyone explain what has happened and how I should proceed. Rather than mess around with the program and make things worse I'm hoping someone out there has experienced a similar problem. If so, I'd appreciate your advice. Thanks, from a very apprehensive Outlook user.

Somehow the PST file that holds your emails and contacts info has lost connection with Outlook. Select "Open an existing personal folder file. Choose <yourusername>.pst. If it fails, choose another pst.

If again failure, choose to create a new PST file. Outlook will open and you will not have any emails or contacts.

Run ScanPST to repairdamaged Outlook PST file
How to repair Outlook folders using the Inbox Repair Tool

PST file is located in C:\Documents and Settings\<user>\Local Settings\Application Data\Microsoft\Outlook folder. It is a hidden file, so you have to unhide hidden files. Open Windows Explorer folder and select Tools > Folders Options > View. Check "Show hidden files and folders". Click OK.

Hope this helps.

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