how do i get rid of Outlook Data File in Classoc Outlook...

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Hi Tom Klima,

I can see why this is confusing - when “Outlook Data File” appears in Classic Outlook, it usually means a local .pst file has been attached to your Outlook profile (often an archive file or an older data file that Outlook re‑attached automatically). Here are some steps you can try to remove it and understand why it appeared.

1, Close it from the Folder pane (removes it from view)

In Classic Outlook, you can remove the “Outlook Data File” from the folder list by closing it: right‑click Outlook Data File in the Folder pane, then select Close “Outlook Data File.” This removes it from Outlook’s view but does not delete the file from your computer. Open and close Outlook Data Files (.pst)

2, If it comes back (or you want to confirm what it is), check what file Outlook has attached

Go to File > Account Settings > Account Settings, then open the Data Files tab. This shows which data files are attached and helps you confirm whether it’s simply an extra .pst that was opened/attached. Repair Outlook Data Files (.pst and .ost)

3, Check AutoArchive (it can create/attach an archive .pst)

If AutoArchive is enabled, Outlook may store older items in an archive .pst. You can review or adjust it in Classic Outlook via File > Options > Advanced > AutoArchive Settings (including turning it off by clearing “Run AutoArchive every n days”). Archive older items automatically

For background, AutoArchive stores archived items in a .pst file (for example, archive.pst) and can be configured per folder as well. AutoArchive settings explained

Please note this is a user-to-user forum, so contributors can’t access or change anything on your device directly - the steps above are the safest way to remove the file from the folder pane and identify why it appeared.

I hope this helps you get Classic Outlook back to the view you expect.

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