Update OST without UI running

Question

Is there any straight forward way to script a background synchronization of .OST file with Exchange, without the Outlook UI running (or at least being hidden/unavailable to the user)?

Answer 1

AFAIK, if you simply create a new Outlook.Application object to start OUTLOOK.EXE with the required Exchange-based profile, a synch should begin.  You may also be able to do the same thing with Redemption by logging into the profile without starting OUTLOOK.EXE.  I'm just guessing though; try sending that account a message when you try this, then start Outlook as usual but in offline mode and see if the message is there.

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Eric Legault
MVP (Outlook)
About me...

Answer 2

Had a look at Redemption, but didn't get it to work. Probably can be done, but not at my current skill level...

Creating a standard Outlook.Application object seems to do the job, but some inconsistent test results. Needed to add some code around SyncObjects to send mails stored in outbox, and I guess that will also ensure that the other folders are synchronized.

Thanks for your input, Eric!

Answer 3

No problem.  But AFAIK, sync groups containing the default Exchange mailbox are redundant since synching is always "on" anyway.  Forcing a sync could be handy though for forcing a send.

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Eric Legault
MVP (Outlook)
About me...