Outlook Express Compacting Error: The folder is currently in use by outlook or another application. This error may be encountered while proceeding to close Outlook Express after checking your email. It is known to effect systems running Windows XP with Service Pack 3 installed. The email auto compact problem is thought to be a bug. In the following simple solution, I show you how to solve the problem.
Fixing the Outlook Express Compacting Error:
If you encounter an error stating the following while attempting to compact all folders, then this tutorial is for you:
The folder is currently in use by outlook or another application
Note: The simplist method is to Open Outlook Express and Press Alt+F+F+F to compact. However, if this does not work, you can use the steps below:
- Open Outlook Express (ensure that no other windows are open).
- From the toolbar, click File and select the option to Work Offline
- Now, click File > Folder and select the option to Compact All Folders
That's it. Now that you have manually compacted the folders, you can re-enable the option to Work Online and continue your happy emailing. ;)