Fixing the 'Set of Folders Cannot Be Opened' Error in Shared Mailbox

Introduction

The 'Set of Folders Cannot Be Opened' error is a common problem encountered by users when trying to access shared mailboxes. This error prevents the proper functioning of shared mailboxes and can be quite frustrating. In this article, we will outline the causes of this error and provide effective solutions to fix it.

The Problem: 'Set of Folders Cannot Be Opened'

When encountering the 'Set of Folders Cannot Be Opened' error, users are unable to access their shared mailbox, resulting in disrupted workflow and communication. The error message typically appears when attempting to open the shared mailbox, signaling that something is wrong with the mailbox configuration or settings. Several factors contribute to this error, including:

1. Incorrect Permissions

One of the common causes of the 'Set of Folders Cannot Be Opened' error is incorrect permissions on the shared mailbox. If the user does not have the necessary permissions, they won't be able to access the mailbox.

2. Corrupted OST File

An OST (Offline Storage Table) file allows users to work offline and synchronize changes with the server. If this OST file gets corrupted, it can lead to the 'Set of Folders Cannot Be Opened' error.

3. Outlook Profile Issues

Problems with the Outlook profile can also cause this error. If the user's profile is not configured correctly or becomes corrupted, it may result in the shared mailbox error.

Solutions to Fix the Error

Solution 1: Check Permissions

1. Open Outlook and go to the 'File' tab.
2. Select 'Account Settings' and choose 'Account Settings' again from the drop-down menu.
3. In the 'Account Settings' window, select the 'Email' tab and click on the shared mailbox account.
4. Click on 'Change' and ensure that the 'Use Cached Exchange Mode' box is unchecked.
5. Click 'Next' and then 'Finish' to save the changes.

Solution 2: Repair the OST File

1. Exit Outlook and open the 'Control Panel'.
2. Select 'Mail' and click on 'Show Profiles'.
3. Select the profile associated with the shared mailbox and click on 'Properties'.
4. In the 'Mail Setup - Outlook' window, click on 'Data Files'.
5. Select the OST file related to the shared mailbox and click on 'Open File Location'.
6. Copy the file path, close all windows, and open File Explorer. Paste the file path into the address bar and press Enter.
7. Locate the OST file, right-click on it, and select 'Delete' to delete the file.
8. Open Outlook, go to the 'File' tab, and click on 'Account Settings'.
9. In the 'Account Settings' window, select the 'Email' tab and click on the shared mailbox account.
10. Click on 'Change' and select the 'Use Cached Exchange Mode' option.
11. Click 'Next' and then 'Finish' to save the changes.

Solution 3: Recreate Outlook Profile

1. Close Outlook and open the 'Control Panel'.
2. Select 'Mail' and click on 'Show Profiles'.
3. Click on 'Add' to create a new profile.
4. Provide a name for the profile and click on 'OK'.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up the profile and add the shared mailbox account.

Recommended Software: Stellar repair for Outlook

If the above solutions do not resolve the 'Set of Folders Cannot Be Opened' error, you can try using Stellar repair for Outlook. This software is designed to repair corrupt Outlook PST files and recover mailbox data. Its features include:

• Efficiently repairs corrupt PST files and restores mailbox data.
• Recovers emails, attachments, contacts, calendars, and other Outlook items.
• Provides a preview of the recoverable mailbox items before restoration.
• Simple and user-friendly interface.
• Step-by-step wizard-based recovery process.

To use MyRecover, follow these steps:

1. Download and install Stellar Repair for Outlook from the official website.
2. Launch the software and click on 'Select File' to choose the corrupt PST file.
3. Click on 'Repair' to start the repair process.
4. Once the repair is complete, preview the mailbox items and select the required ones.
5. Click on 'Save Repaired File' to save the repaired PST file.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I grant permissions to access a shared mailbox?

A: To grant access permissions to a shared mailbox, follow these steps:

1. Open the Exchange Admin Center and go to 'Recipients'.

2. Select the shared mailbox and click on 'Manage'.

3. In the 'Manage My Organization' section, click on 'Mailbox Delegation'.

4. Under 'Full Access', add the users who require access to the shared mailbox.

5. Save the changes and instruct the users to add the shared mailbox to their Outlook profiles.

Q: What is cached Exchange mode in Outlook?

A: Cached Exchange mode allows users to work with their mailboxes even when not connected to the Exchange server. It creates a local copy of the mailbox on the user's computer, enabling offline access and faster performance.

Q: Can I recover a deleted OST file?

A: Yes, you can recover a deleted OST file from the Deleted Items folder in Outlook. Locate the OST file in the Deleted Items folder, right-click on it, and select 'Move > Other Folder'. Choose a location to restore the OST file.

Q: How can I recreate my Outlook profile?

A: To recreate your Outlook profile, follow these steps:

1. Open the 'Control Panel' and select 'Mail'.

2. Click on 'Show Profiles' and select your existing profile.

3. Click on 'Remove' and confirm the deletion.

4. Follow the on-screen instructions to create a new profile.

Q: Does Stellar Repair for Outlook work with all versions of Outlook?

A: Yes, Stellar Repair for Outlook is compatible with all versions of Outlook, including Outlook 2019, 2016, 2013, and earlier.

Q: Can I use Stellar Repair for Outlook on Mac?

A: No, Stellar Repair for Outlook is a Windows-based software and cannot be used on Mac systems.

Conclusion

The 'Set of Folders Cannot Be Opened' error in shared mailboxes can be frustrating but can be resolved by following the provided solutions. Checking permissions, repairing the OST file, and recreating the Outlook profile are effective ways to fix this error. If these solutions fail, Stellar Repair for Outlook software provides advanced features to recover and restore mailbox data. By following the recommended steps and utilizing the suggested software, users can overcome this error and regain access to their shared mailboxes.