Password-protecting a PST file is a good way to keep your Outlook data safe, but it can become a problem when you forget the password or need to open the file on another system. If you’re using Outlook 2016, Outlook 2019, or Outlook 2021, you may notice that Microsoft has removed the built-in option to change or remove PST passwords.
So, how do you remove a PST password safely now? This guide shows you the updated, working methods to unlock or remove PST passwords in the latest Outlook versions.
Why Is It Difficult to Remove PST Password in Newer Outlook Versions?
Microsoft discontinued the old Password Change and Password Remove options from Outlook 2016 onward.
Because of this:
You cannot remove a password directly from Outlook
You cannot change an existing PST password
You need a reliable workaround to unlock the file
This is why most users turn to a professional tool or alternative method.
Method 1: Remove PST Password Using a Professional Tool (Safest & Easiest)
Since Outlook 2016+ does not allow password removal, using a trusted PST unlocker is the most effective solution.
Best Option: Advik PST Password Remover Tool. It helps you instantly remove, recover, or unlock PST file passwords—even if the password is unknown or forgotten.
Key Features
Remove PST password in seconds
No Outlook installation required
Works with Outlook 2016/2019/2021 PST files
Maintains email formatting and folder structure
Supports both ANSI & Unicode PST
Beginner-friendly interface
Steps to Remove PST Password Using Advik
1. Install and launch Advik PST Password Remover.
2. Click Add File and select your password-protected PST.
3. Choose the destination to save the unlocked file.
4. Click Remove Password.
5. The tool generates an unlocked PST file instantly.
You can now open the PST in Outlook without entering any password.
Method 2: Remove PST Password Using an Old Outlook Version (If Available)
If you still have access to Outlook 2007, 2010, or 2013, you can remove the password using the older interface.
Steps:
Open Outlook (2007–2013)
Go to File > Data File Management
Select your PST file
Click Settings
Choose Change Password
Enter the old password, leave the new password fields blank
Click OK
This removes the password — but only works in older Outlook versions.
Method 3: Free PST Password Finder Tools (Not Very Reliable)
There are free PST password finders available online, but they come with risks:
May not work on large PST files
Not reliable for complex passwords
Can corrupt your PST data
Some contain ads or malware
Use them only if the data is not sensitive.
Which Method Should You Choose?
If you want a 100% working, safe, and quick method, the best option is:
Advik PST Password Remover
It works without Outlook, supports all versions, and unlocks PST files without modifying the data.
Final Words
Removing a PST password in Outlook 2016, Outlook 2019, or Outlook 2021 is no longer possible through Outlook itself. However, using a professional tool like Advik PST Password Remover makes the process effortless and secure. Whether you’ve forgotten the password or received a locked PST file from someone else, you can unlock it within minutes.
