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Fix: Outlook Data File Has Reached The Maximum Size

You can use the Registry Editor or compress the file

4 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Some Outlook users have recently reported that they receive theOutlook data file reached maximum sizeerror message whenever they open theMicrosoft Outlook appwhich seems frustrating.

If you are experiencing similar issues, do not worry anymore as we have gathered some tricks that tackle this problem easily.

What does it mean when the Outlook data file has reached the maximum size pst?

What does it mean when the Outlook data file has reached the maximum size pst?

Microsoft Outlook has an option that allows users to store email files and folders as offline files. These files are called Outlook data files and carry the extension .pst.

When this error occurs, it means you have exceeded the default size limit of your Outlook data files, and it would not be able to store further emails.

AMicrosoft Outlook mailbox can have a maximum size of 100GB, whereas .pst files have a 50GB maximum file size limit. The.pst file may still be added to your Microsoft Outlook mailbox if either of these limits is exceeded, but you won’t be able to open it, nor will you be able to share the .pst file.

Regardless, you can explore the advanced solutions provided in the next section to know how to fix the issue.

What can I do if the Outlook data file reached maximum size?

What can I do if the Outlook data file reached maximum size?

Before engaging in any advanced troubleshooting or settings tweaks for this error, here are a few tricks to try:

If, after applying the above checks, you still require further assistance, you can use the advanced solutions below.

1. Compress the Outlook data file

The Compact Now feature is one of Outlook’s compressing options. This feature reduces the size of the data file to a tolerable limit.

2. Manually archive the Outlook mailbox

Instead of deleting older items, you may use Archive as an alternative.

3. Use the Registry Editor to increase the size limit

With the aid ofWindows Registry Editor, users can unlock many new features in Windows computers by making edits in the Registry Editor.

Make sure you work your way through the fixes provided in this article one after the other. Hopefully, one of the above steps will fix the issue for you.

If you have any questions or suggestions, do not hesitate to use the comments section below.

More about the topics:Outlook Guides

Loredana Harsana

Windows Software Expert

Loredana is a passionate writer with a keen interest in PC software and technology. She started off writing about mobile phones back when Samsung Galaxy S II was on top of the world and she fell in love with tech of all sorts.

Whenever she’s not at her work desk, you’ll find her enjoying refreshing tea flavors, spilling stories on paper, and listening to the radio.

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Loredana Harsana

Windows Software Expert

Loredana is a tech enthusiast who tackles mobility, privacy, and networking in easy-to follow guides for everyone.