Outlook Data Files Usage is Disabled on this Computer [Solved]

Outlook is a popular email client used by millions worldwide, known for its efficiency in managing emails, calendars, tasks, and contacts. However, encountering errors while using Outlook can disrupt productivity. One such error, “Outlook Data Files Usage is Disabled on this Computer,” can be frustrating. This blog aims to guide you through understanding and resolving this issue.

The error message “Outlook Data Files PST Usage is Disabled on this Computer” typically indicates that Microsoft Outlook is encountering issues accessing or utilizing its data files (such as PST or OST files) required for managing emails, contacts, calendars, and other data. This error prevents Outlook from effectively utilizing these files. Moreover, it leads to disruption in normal email operations and other functionalities within the Outlook application.

How Does this Error Occur: ‘Outlook Data Files (.pst) Usage Disabled’?

The error message “Outlook Data Files Usage is Disabled on this Computer” arises due to various underlying reasons that hinder Microsoft Outlook from accessing or utilizing its essential data files effectively. Several potential causes can lead to this error:

• Corrupted Outlook Data Files: Damage or corruption within the PST (Personal Storage Table) or OST (Offline Storage Table) files used by Outlook can prevent the application from using these files correctly.
• Misconfigured Outlook Settings: Changes in the settings related to Outlook’s data files can lead to turning off their usage within the application.
• Conflicts with Add-ins or Extensions: Third-party add-ins or extensions installed within Outlook might conflict with its functionalities, disrupting accessing or utilizing data files and resulting in the error Outlook Data Files Usage is Disabled on this Computer message.
• System or Software Changes: Updates to the operating system, conflicts with antivirus software, changes in firewall settings, or alterations in system configurations can sometimes interfere with Outlook’s ability to access and use its data files, leading to this error.
• Issues within the Outlook Profile: Corruption or issues within the Outlook profile can also contribute to the error.

In short, the error message alerts users that the Outlook data files are currently disabled or inaccessible, impacting the application’s ability to function correctly. Now, we will discuss how to troubleshoot this issue.

How to Fix Outlook Data Files PST Usage is Disabled on this Computer?

Here, we have various solutions to resolve this error. You just need to go through each section to have an in-depth knowledge of each paragraph.

#1. Using Office Administrative 2010 Template

• Download and install the “Office Administrative 2010 Template” from the Microsoft Download Center.
• After that, open Policy Management Support and select the GPO (Group Policy Object) where Custom settings will be applied.
• Then, right-click on the Default Domain Policy and click Edit.
• Moving ahead, navigate within Outlook to access Options > Other > Auto-Archive.
• Enable the “Disable data file & Exit Archive” option.
• Furthermore, move to PST Settings in MS Outlook.
• Disable the “Prevent User from Adding New Data to Existing PST File” or “Prevent using sharing Exclusive PSTs.”
• Next up, run ‘gpupdate/force’ on your local machine to immediately apply the Group Policy.
• Lastly, log in again to see if the changes take effect.

#2: By Using Registry Method

NOTE: Back up your registry before proceeding.

• First, press the Windows + R keys simultaneously to open the Registry Editor.
• After that, navigate to ‘HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office.0\Outlook\PST.’

(Note: The .0 indicates the Outlook version).

• Create a new DWORD Value called ‘PSTDisableGrow.’
• Set the value of ‘PSTDisableGrow’ to ‘0’.
• In the Registry Editor, navigate to ‘HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office.0\Outlook’.
• Create a new DWORD Value called ‘DisablePST.’
• Set the value of ‘DisablePST’ to ‘0’.

Points to Remember:

• The ‘0’ value allows adding new data or PST files (default).
• The ‘1’ value restricts adding new content to existing PST files or adding new PST files.
• The ‘2’ value allows adding only exclusive sharing of PST data, like SharePoint PST files.

If you’re encountering the “Outlook Data Files (.pst) Usage is Disabled on this Computer” error because your PST file is damaged, there’s a solution to fix it. You can use a tool, Cigati PST Repair Tool. This software is competent enough to mend the issues in the file so you can use it normally again. Additionally, this tool is highly compatible with recovering corrupted data from your Outlook PST files.

Final Words

Encountering the “Outlook Data Files Usage is Disabled on this Computer” error can disrupt your workflow, but following the troubleshooting steps outlined above can help resolve the issue. These steps aim to adjust specific settings within the Outlook software or Registry Editor to permit adding new data or PST files without encountering the error. It’s crucial to follow these steps carefully and consider backing up the registry before making any changes to avoid potential issues. If the problem persists, seeking assistance from IT support or Microsoft’s support forums might provide additional insights tailored to your specific situation.

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