Fix Outlook Error Code 0x80070021: Complete Solution

Summary: Outlook is a popular email client application that is not just limited to sending and receiving emails anymore. It excels in a lot more and provides amazing features, but sometimes it gives Outlook Error Code 0x80070021. When it occurs, users are interrupted, and they cannot move Outlook PST files from their default location. It is quite a hectic issue and thus needs an immediate fix. In this blog, learn what caused it and how you can resolve it easily. Also, find out about the SysInfo  PST Recovery Tool to access and download items from damaged or corrupt PSTs seamlessly. Download Now Purchase Now

About Error Code 0x80070021 in Outlook

Generally, it is displayed when you try to move a PST file from your Outlook profile. However, the process remains incomplete and is disrupted as some portion of the PST file is locked. This unexpected Outlook error code 0x80070021 arises for the following reasons:

  • The file you want to copy or take a backup of is currently being used in another background process. 
  • The location where you keep the PST file and its media conflicts with the Outlook file system.
  • The OS being used to run Outlook and its files or other Windows services is facing problems.
  • Outlook isn’t closed properly, or the file has encountered corruption due to a virus or other issues.
  • The Microsoft Outlook file exceeds the standard limit size of 10 GB in Outlook.

Troubleshoot and Resolve Outlook Error Code 0x80070021?

There are several manual troubleshooting ways to eliminate or fix this error for free. Also, there is a professional tool to repair and extract the PST file data without any manual efforts quickly. Descriptions for both are provided in the upcoming part.

Cost-Free Ways to Solve Error 0x80070021 in Outlook

Follow the below-given troubleshooting techniques to efficiently manage the 0x80070021 error:

1) Verify and Terminate Outlook Background Services

  1. First, close MS Outlook and >> open Task Manager (from Search or by Ctrl + Alt Delete).
  2. Now, press More Details to check all the current and running background tasks.
  3. Then, click Name to sort data alphabetically and find Outlook processes in the list.
  4. After locating, click on the End Task button. It will fix Outlook Error Code 0x80070021. 
  5. Further, search for Lync and Skype for Business. End the task for these, too.
  6. Repeat the same till you close all major tasks and processes. Like, disable antivirus.
  7. Finally, try to copy the PST file to see if the issue is resolved.

2) Do System Restore and Fix Error Code 0x80070021

  1. Start the Control Panel on your PC and >> open System and Security.
  2. Next, click on System and Maintenance>>Recovery.
  3. Further, press on Configure System Restore >> System Restore in the open dialog.
  4. A new one appears, click Next, and select the restore point. Press Next.
  5. Finally, click Finish to resolve Outlook Error Code 0x80070021.

3) Start Windows in Clean Boot Mode via Run

  1. Click Win + R to open the Find and Run dialog and input msconfig in it. Click OK.
  2. Then, from the Startup tab, open Task Manager on the computer.
  3. Disable all processes and go to Services. After that, the checkbox Hide all MS services.
  4. Next, press Disable All and click OK. A dialog appears where you need to hit Restart.
  5. Check if you fixed the error code 0x80070021 in Outlook. Copy the PST file.

If it still isn’t fixed, then try disabling all the Outlook add-ins. But these manual methods have the following shortcomings:

  • Requires technical expertise and no way to remove corruption.
  • No guarantee for data protection of the Outlook PST file.
  • Very slow and time-consuming process in all of the given ways.

How Tool Helps Resolve Outlook Error Code 0x80070021?

If the PST file is damaged and corrupted, you cannot copy it to another location. Also, if done, the data in PST is of no benefit to users. So, the best thing is to repair the file and extract Outlook emails, contacts, calendars, notes, and other data from it. This is done smoothly with the help of the Outlook PST Recovery Tool

It saves all the mail items in their original structure and format, without loss. Also, one can save a file at the desired location through its user-friendly GUI in a format of their choice. Moreover, the tool fix Microsoft Outlook not implemented issues, including Outlook data files not being able to be opened, and more.

Steps of the Tool to Fix Outlook Error Code 0x80070021: PST Issues

  1. Run the PST Repair Tool as an administrator and press Open from the top bar.
  2. Next, insert your Outlook PST file into it and select standard/advanced/deep recovery.
  3. Click OK, and the comprehensive utility starts the scan for your given file.
  4. Further, select the root folders you need to extract back and press Save from the top.
  5. Then, with (…), give a path to save files and also, choose a repair format.
  6. Make sure you check other features once, and at last, click OK.

The file is now in a healthy state at your desired location. So, after you fix Error Code 0x80070021 completely, proceed to easily copy it again.

Conclusion

Overall, Outlook Error Code 0x80070021 is a troubling issue for all users, but it can be fixed with the relevant solutions. We found five different ways to fix the error and get the PST file data securely. With manual methods, you need to be extremely careful, whereas with the professional tool, you can be at ease. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.1 What causes the Outlook 0x80070021 error?

Ans. The general reasons for the occurrence of error code 0x80070021 in Outlook are:
1. MS Outlook runs in the background.
2. Some random process conflicts with the Outlook PST file.
3. PST file issues such as corruption, size difficulties, or more.
4. System issues or improper Outlook termination.

Q.2 How to resolve error 0x80070021 in Outlook?

Ans. Fix Error Code 0x80070021 with any of the given procedures:
1. Close Outlook from Task Manager
2. Complete System Restore
3. Process Clean Boot
4. Disable Extensions (Indexing Tool, Office Communicator)
5. Outlook PST File Recovery Tool

About The Author:

Meet Shivam, an experienced SEO executive and content strategist. He combines creativity with strategy to craft engaging content that connects with audiences and supports brand goals. With strong expertise in digital marketing and content planning, Shivam helps businesses thrive online.

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