ost to pst

There are numerous reasons for OST corruption, and users need a robust tool to handle such problems. Here, we describe how to export OST to PST in the best possible way. Also, you will have an alternate solution to convert Outlook OST to PST using the  OST to PST Converter.

An OST file, also called  Offline Storage Folder, is a local copy of your Exchange mailbox. It is stored on your computer and allows you to work offline with your email, calendar, and contacts. The OST file synchronizes with the Exchange server and updates your mailbox when you are online again.

A PST file, also known as Personal or Online Storage Table, is an Outlook data file that stores your emails, contacts, and other info. PST files are supported by the Exchange Client, Windows Messaging, and Microsoft Outlook. PST files are a common type of email storage used by all Microsoft email applications.

Why Did Users Need to Convert Outlook OST to PST?

A few reasons might prompt a user to export OST to PST. One reason is that the user is changing email platforms, from Microsoft Exchange to Gmail. In this case, the user will need to convert their OST file to PST to access their email data on the new platform.

Another reason to convert an OST file to PST is if the user is experiencing issues with their OST file. For example, the file might be corrupt or damaged. When this occurs, converting the OST file to PST can help repair the file and make it accessible again.

Sometimes users prefer the PST file format over the OST formats, as PST files are generally easier to work with and are more compatible with various other Outlook versions. 

Export OST to PST by Manual Methods

Here we are providing the top 02 manual methods to Backup Outlook OST File to PST

  1. Import OST file into Outlook by using the Drag and Drop Method
  2. Convert OST to PST by using Export Feature in Outlook

Import OST file into Outlook by using the Drag and Drop Method

Follow the steps to easily convert the OST files into PST file format by dragging and dropping.

  1. Firstly Run Microsoft Outlook on your PC.
  2. Make a new PST file in your Outlook profile.
  3. Now, you can drag all the OST folders you wish to move to the newly created Outlook file.

The drag and drop method has some disadvantages. Every time a mail item needs to be moved from the OST to the PST mailbox, the user must repeat the process. It is a time-consuming and complicated process, since even the slightest error can cause data corruption.

Convert OST to PST by using Export Feature in Outlook

  1. Download the MS Outlook application. Go to File > Open & Export > Import/Export.
  2. Choose the option saying Export to a file and click on Next.
  3. Now, it will ask the file type you want to save the OST data. Choose Outlook Data File (.pst) option. Press the Next button.
  4. You can move a single mailbox folder (mostly your Inbox folder) to a PST file. To do so, select Include subfolders and then click the Move button. Continue by clicking Next.
  5. Click Browse and enter the location of the PST file on your computer. Choose an option for managing duplicate items and click on Finish.
  6. Next, now user can add the password to your saved PST file to keep it protected. The conversion process will start and be complete as per the data involved.

These are the two manual approaches that users can use to export OST to PST. The methods are free of cost but have limitations; as manual approach are complicated and lengthy processes. They sometimes require technical assistance while performing steps. Users always worry about crucial data loss while performing manual steps. But don’t panic, we have another solution for you.

Use Automated solution to Backup OST File into PST file format

OST to PST Converter is the risk-free utility to convert the OST files into PST file format. This tool export the OST files into PST, EML, CSV, HTML, MHTML, EMLX, MBOX, MSG and other file formats.  It import OST file into Office 365, Gmail, Thunderbird, Yahoo Mail, and other email client.Moreover, it offers a user-friendly interface to its technical and non-technical users. This utility is crafted with some advanced features that make the conversion process easy and 100% reliable. The free demo version of the software is available that can export 50 emails of OST into a PST file.

Final Verdict

This blog provides the two manual methods to export OST to PST. All the steps of the manual methods are provided in detail, but if they do not provide reliable results, I suggest you to use the most trusted third-party app solution OST to PST Converter tool.

By Anurag Rathod

Anurag Rathod is an Editor of Appclonescript.com, who is passionate for app-based startup solutions and on-demand business ideas. He believes in spreading tech trends. He is an avid reader and loves thinking out of the box to promote new technologies.