3 Ways to Fix Unknown Error 0x80070002 in Outlook

While working with the Outlook application, you may at some point encounter an unknown error 0x80070002. In this article, we discuss 3 ways to comprehensively fix this issue.

3 Ways to Fix Unknown Error 0x80070002 in Outlook

Since it was first released in 1997, the MS Outlook application has managed to earn kudos from businesses of all sizes. From large companies who use it today for team collaboration to small businesses who depend on it for managing their customer data; Outlook has something to offer for everyone. Yet this class-leading application is plagued by incidents of inane errors cropping out of the blue. One such tricky error that you may encounter is the unknown error 0x80070002, which we will discuss in detail.

What can Cause the Unknown Error 0x80070002

There are two specific causes that can contribute to the unknown error 0x80070002 showing up while you are working with the Outlook application. The first possible issue relates to the directory where the PST file is stored. If this directory is inaccessible due to any restrictions or software issues, then this error would very likely flash before your screens. That apart, if the PST data file where you store all your email data get corrupted, it too can lead to this error.

Error 0x80070002

#1. Check if the Directory is Inaccessible

The MS Outlook application is designed to store PST files in a specified directory. You need to first check if you can access the directory where the PST files are stored. The storage location of your PST file can vary depending on your operating system and the version of Outlook you are running, as shown below.

Outlook paths under different versions of Windows

In case, the folder is not accessible, you need to create fresh paths by making changes in the Windows Registry as shown below.

  • Go to the following location C:\Users\Username\Documents in Windows and create a new folder Outlook2
  • In the Windows Search Box (Run Box), type in Regedit to launch the Registry Editor app
  • Next in the Address bar of the Registry Editor, type in HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Office and press enter to open up the location
  • Locate the Office folder relevant to the MS Office edition you are running and right-click on the blank right panel
Outlook version and Office Folder
  • Choose New from the options and click on String Value
  • Now in the Value Name field that shows up, type in ForcePSTPath and save it
  • Next right-click on it and choose Modify
  • In the field for Value Data, type in the path for the Outlook folder and save the settings
  • Reboot the system and check if the issue gets resolved
Set registry key for Outlook path

#2. Recover the Corrupted PST File with the Help of a Sophisticated Recovery Tool

In case, you are able to access the PST file directory, it is quite likely that the underlying PST file itself has got corrupted. To resolve the issue, you need to run a powerful recovery tool like DataNumen Outlook Repair. This remarkable application is designed to handle even the most extensive incident of PST corruption with ease.

DataNumen Outlook Repair

#3. Revert the System to a Previous Working State by Running System Restore

In some isolated cases, even after following both the steps listed above, the issue may continue to persist. In such cases, you should run the System Restore feature present in your Windows system and bring back the system to a previous restore point when Outlook was working in perfect order. To do so, perform the steps mentioned below.

  • In the Run Box (Windows Search Bar), type in System Restore
  • Click on Recovery to launch the screen for Advanced Recovery Tools
  • Next click on Open System Restore option
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to choose a restore point when Outlook was working perfectly and complete the recovery process
Windows System Restore

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *