Where are my Outlook contacts stored?

Question

I currently cannot access my contacts from anywhere but my desktop computer at work. I'd like to be able to access them from the web so I can use other devices. When I put this question in the search bar, the conversation was from 2013, and I it said they are in a file called outlook.pst. I did a search for that on my computer and found nothing.

And as of yesterday, Outlook won't even work on my desktop, so I can't get any emails to go in or out. I'm so frustrated. I love Outlook, but I'm going to be forced to use something else here...

Answer 1

Dear Karmen Wilharms,

Good day! Thank you for posting to Microsoft Community. We are happy to help you.

Based on your description, I understand that you have a query "Where are my Outlook contacts stored?"

Basically, the outlook contacts are typically found within the user's profile directory and are stored in a file called Outlook.pst on your computer; look for a file with a .oab extension which represents the Outlook Address Book and contains all the contacts. However, if you are using an Exchange account, your contacts may be stored on the server. To access your contacts from other devices, you can try syncing your Outlook account with your mobile device or accessing your account through the web using Outlook Web App. If you are unable to access your contacts or emails on your desktop, you may need to troubleshoot the issue or contact Microsoft support for further assistance.

Regarding the issue with Outlook not working on your desktop, there could be several reasons for this. It could be due to a corrupted Outlook profile, a problem with the Outlook data file, or an issue with the Outlook installation itself. To troubleshoot this issue, I would recommend trying to repair your Outlook installation using the Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant tool. You can download it from the Microsoft website and follow the instructions to diagnose and fix any issues with Outlook.

I hope the above information will be helpful. Please feel free to let me know how it goes. I will keep assisting you based on the information you provide. We sincerely appreciate your patience and cooperation. Thanks for your precious time!

Sincerely,

De Paul | Microsoft Community Moderator

Answer 2

I currently cannot access my contacts from anywhere but my desktop computer at work. I'd like to be able to access them from the web so I can use other devices. When I put this question in the search bar, the conversation was from 2013, and I it said they are in a file called outlook.pst. I did a search for that on my computer and found nothing.

And as of yesterday, Outlook won't even work on my desktop, so I can't get any emails to go in or out. I'm so frustrated. I love Outlook, but I'm going to be forced to use something else here...

I have the same problem, Outlook keeps adding blank contact list and not recognizing my old files, I have had to creat duplicate files several time, only to find an update that removes all my information.

Answer 3

I am running Windows 10 It looks like when I installed this mandatory upgrade to Outlook New, my .oab file is not in the Outlook File folder....was it deleted?

I have searched the entire box for .oab files and none have surfaced...I have found my .pst files but since New doesnt allow for the import of the files, they are useless without the Old Outlook program....

So the question is, what do I have to buy so I can get my emails and address book back?

Thank you,

Chris

Answer 4

I ran into the same darn thing when I got the Upgraded Outlook. My contacts and calendar items did not auto import over. I use AOL for mail via IMAP and my calendar and contacts are in iCloud. It will not let me import or move over my iCloud data after my AOL Mail is up. Now, when I revert back to the old Windows mail interface on my PC, my contacts are ALL GONE. This is the worst migration to a new platform I've ever experienced.

Answer 5

i can't find my contacts list I just got a new computer and transferred outlook I get my incoming mail but I can't send anything

DF