Why You Should Move Outlook OST File to Another Drive Safely

MS Outlook keeps a synchronized copy of your emails in an OST file so you can work even without an internet connection. However, this file usually grows large in time and starts affecting system performance.

There are situations where you may need to shift Outlook OST file to another drive depending on storage issues, system upgrades, or profile-related problems.

When your storage bar turns red because of a heavy OST file, it becomes necessary to move Outlook OST file to another drive safely. In this blog, we will also explore reliable solutions that will help you transfer Outlook OST file to another drive or system without causing sync errors or  profile damage.

Why you need to shift Outlook OST file?

There can be several situations where shifting Outlook OST file becomes necessary. The common reasons are:

• Slow Outlook’s performance due to heavy OST files occupying large amount of storage on the disc.
• If you have a smaller SSD and want to upgrade to lager one.
• When you are upgrading or changing the system, transferring the OST file is important.
• Or you just want regular backups of your OST files.

Large OST files can easily cross several gigabytes. When that happens, storage and performance both suffer. That is when you should transfer Outlook OST file properly instead of manually dragging it.

Where Is the OST File Stored?

Before you move Outlook OST file to another drive safely, you need to know where it actually stores itself. Outlook’s OST files are generally found in default location unless you have manually changed it earlier.

If you have manually changed the location and can’t remember, follow these steps:

1. Open Outlook.
2. In account setting, Go to File
3. Under Data Files tab, select your account.
4. Click Open File Location.

This will take you directly to the folder where the OST file is stored.

Generally, most of the modern versions of MS Outlook’s default path is:
C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Outlook

Proven Methods to Move Outlook OST File to Another Drive Safely

If your storage is full and despite emptying the driver, you are upgrading to a new SSD. Or else you just want to create a backup. Here are the safest ways to shift Outlook OST files without causing profile damage or sync errors.Here are 3 main methods including manual nad an advanced solution:

1. Change OST File Location via Outlook Settings
2. Redirect OST File Path Using Windows Registry
3. Using a automated solution

If your storage is full, you’re upgrading to a new SSD, or simply want a backup, moving your Outlook OST file safely is important to avoid profile damage or sync errors.

1. Change OST File Location

This technique safely moves your OST file by utilizing a function that Outlook has built in. It is simple, dependable, and guarantees that your emails and profile will remain intact during the file transfer.

Steps for Method 1:

1. Close Outlook completely.
2. Open Control Panel >> Mail >> Email Accounts >> Data Files.
3. Select your account and click Open File Location.
4. Copy the OST file to the new drive location.
5. In Outlook, go to Account Settings >> Data Files >> Add >> Browse, and point to the new location.
6. Set it as the default and restart Outlook.

Pros:

• Usually easy to use
• Maintains profile integrity
• Avoids sync errors

2. Redirect OST File Path Using Windows Registry

This method uses the Windows Registry to redirect Outlook to create a new OST file in your chosen location. It’s more technical but useful for large migrations.

Steps for Method 2:

1. Close Outlook.
2. Open command prompt, type regedit, and press Enter.
3. Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Office\<version>\Outlook
4. Add a new String Value named ForceOSTPath and set it to your desired folder path.
5. Restart Outlook – it will create a new OST in the specified location.

Pros:

• Automatically directs Outlook to the new OST location
• Reduces copying errors
• Useful for multiple accounts or large files

Limitations of Manual Methods:

• Outlook may create a new OST file instead of using the one you copied

• If the profile is not updated properly, sync errors can appear

• Registry editing needs proper technical understanding

• One wrong change in the registry can disturb Outlook

• These methods cannot fix corrupted or orphaned OST files

• If the Exchange account is removed permanently, the OST file may stop working

Built-in and registry methods work in normal situations. But they depend on a correct setup and an active mailbox. If the OST file is damaged, orphaned, or inaccessible, using a advanced OST solution becomes a safer and more practical option.

3. Use a Professional OST Converter Tool

Sometimes, manual methods are just not enough. If the OST file is damaged, not syncing, or the account is removed, Outlook may not open it properly. In such cases, trying to move it again will not fix the issue.

A professional solution like SysTools OST to PST converter allows you to open the OST file directly and save the data in PST or other formats. This method usually gives you access to your emails safely, when the file is corrupted or inaccessible.

Steps for Method 3:

1. Close Outlook.
2. Launch downloaded converter tool.
3. Select the OST file or folder
4. Choose a location to save converted format.
5. Now you can back up converted PST files yourself.

Benefits of Using an Automated Tool:

There can be an extra layer of security by using an advanced Tool Before You Move Outlook OST File to Another Drive Safely. Before you shift Outlook OST file to another drive, creating a PST backup adds extra security. Moving to other drive can reduce mailbox size and increase storage capacity, but it cannot fix damaged or inaccessible OST files.

Using a professional converter helps you secure emails before migration. It allows data access even if the original OST fails and reduces risk while you move Outlook OST file to another drive safely.

These Softwares generally:

• Creates a proper PST backup before migration.
• Keeps emails accessible even if the OST becomes inaccessible.
• Protects data if the account is removed.
• Less risk when you move Outlook OST file to another drive safely.
• Gives better control as compared to Outlook sync.
• After conversion you can use PST file as a strong backup, so that you no longer stay dependent on OST format.

NOTE: Secure the data first. Then shift Outlook OST file with less stress.

Conclusion :

Now you know how to handle transfer Outlook OST file. If you move Outlook OST file to another drive safely using the correct method, your profile stays stable and your emails remain intact. Manual methods work when everything is healthy and properly configured. But if the file is damaged, disconnected, or the account is removed, things change. In that case, securing the data first makes more sense than experimenting with the file. Create a backup, then shift Outlook OST file without depending completely on server sync.