How to Fix ‘Outlook Cannot Display the Folder’ Error in Easy Steps

OST to PST Converter /August 15, 2025

Outlook helps you keep your inbox tidy by letting you create different folders. But sometimes, you might face problems opening these folders. You might see errors like “Cannot display the folder” or “Unable to expand the folder. Client Operation failed.” These errors can stop you from accessing your emails and affect your work. This guide will explain the common reasons for these errors, show you different ways to fix them, and suggest reliable software like Goldytools OST to PST converter to help you manage Outlook smoothly. So continue reading.

Ways to Fix Outlook Cannot Display the Folder

Have a look at the ways given below to repair Outlook not displaying the folder.

Delete or Rename the OST File

If you get this Outlook error while using an OST file, it might be because of sync issues. To fix it, you can delete or rename the OST file.

Note:

Always back up the OST file first to avoid losing data. Also, make sure Microsoft Outlook is fully closed before you start.

  • Simply follow the steps right below to delete an OST File:
  • First of all, press Win + R on your keyboard to open the Run box.
  • Then, copy and paste the command given below.
  • A folder will open that show your OST file.
  • At last, find the damaged file, right-click on it, and select Delete.

Change Folder Visible Permission if Outlook is Unable to Display the Folder

This method works only if you have admin rights to the shared Outlook mailbox. It lets you fix the problem by managing who can access the folder.

Note:

You must have both an Exchange email account and a Microsoft Exchange Server.

  • Just follow these steps for the solution:
  • Firstly, right-click the public folder and selectProperties.
  • After that, go to the Permissions tab, choose Permissions, and set your permission level.
  • In the Other section, make sure Folder Visible is checked.
  • If you do not have permission, click Edit, allow the permission, and then click OK to save.

Disable the Outlook “Anywhere” Protocol

Here are the steps to fix this problem:

  • Open Outlook first and click on File.
  • Then, go to Info>Account Settings>Account Settings.
  • Now, select the email account you want to change.
  • Lastly, click More Settings>Connection and then turn off the Outlook Anywhere option.

The Easiest Way to Fix “Outlook Cannot Display the Folder” Error

You have now seen several ways to fix the issue. But if your OST file still does not work, the only option left is to repair it. For this, you can use Goldytools OST to PST Converter, which can safely fix the problem. It is made to repair damaged or corrupted OST files without losing any data. Check out the simple steps to fix the damaged OST File:

  • First of all, open the software on your computer.
  • Then, click Openand find the OST files on your system.
  • After that, choose the Recovery Mode and enter the OST file details.
  • Wait for the scan to finish and then click OK.
  • Choose the file format and location where you want to save the repaired OST file.
  • Click Save to store the repaired file on your computer.
  • Finally, click OK.

Conclusion

The “Outlook Cannot Display the Folder” error can happen for many reasons such as limited access permissions, damaged OST files, or sync problems. You can fix these issues either manually or by using the Goldytools OST to PST converter for a safe and reliable solution. You can also try the trial version of this Goldytools OST viewer before you subscribe to its pricing plans.

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