Methods to Convert OST to PST File
Summary: This discussion explores various free methods for converting OST files to PST files, encompassing exporting mailboxes as PST, using archiving to save OST emails to PST, and the drag & drop method. Despite these options, for a seamless and hassle-free OST to PST conversion experience, it is highly recommended to leverage the OST to PST Converter tool.
OST files are binary copies of Exchange Server mailbox folders, automatically created to store messages, calendar items, and other data for offline access. Synchronization with the server copy occurs when connected to the Exchange mailbox. However, circumstances may arise where accessing the Exchange mailbox offline is necessary, prompting the need to convert OST files to PST.
To address this requirement, various methods are discussed, each with step-by-step instructions for effective implementation. Despite the availability of free methods, the OST to PST Converter tool is strongly recommended for a more straightforward and efficient conversion experience.
Some beneficial scenarios to convert OST files to PST are here:
• Recovery from Deleted Mailboxes: In situations where a few user mailboxes get deleted from the Exchange server, OST files can be instrumental in recovering data.
• Backup Before Mailbox Deletion: Prior to the deletion of mailboxes, users may want to back up specific Exchange mailboxes using OST files.
• Rebuilding Corrupt OST Files: In cases where an Exchange user needs to rebuild a corrupt OST file, the OST file can be valuable, especially if the user has unsaved data.
• Urgent Access to Emails: When Exchange accounts become inaccessible due to corruption, converting OST files to PST allows users to urgently access their emails.
• Email Communication During Exchange Downtime: To re-establish email communication during Exchange downtime or unavailability.
Method 1: Export mailbox as a PST file
• Login to Outlook: Open Outlook and log in with the Exchange account that was used to create the OST files.
• Export Procedure: Go to Files > Open & Export and click on Import & Export.
• Select Export to a File: Choose Export to a file and click Next.
• Choose Outlook Data File (.pst): Select the second option—Outlook Data File (.pst)—and click Next.
• Select Folders to Export: Choose the folder(s) you want to export and click Next.
• Specify Location for PST Files: Browse the location where you want to save the new PST files.
• Choose Duplicate Items Option: Choose an option regarding the handling of duplicate items.
Method 2: Use archiving to save OST emails to PST
• Launch the Outlook application, go to File and click Options.
• Go to Advanced and click Auto Archive Settings.
• Now select the number of days in which you want to run auto archiving. Select the folder to save the archived file; also, provide the archiving options and finally click OK.
Method 3: Use drag and drop method to move limited data.
• First, create a new data file in Outlook. Click New Email and expand More Items. Choose Outlook Data File.
• Choose Outlook data file (.pst) and click OK.
• Save the PST file in an accessible folder and a new data file is created. Then, you can select some data from the older account and try to drop in the new account. It will ask if you want to move the folder inside the new account. Click Yes.
Method 4: Convert OST files without Exchange profile or server connectivity
OST to PST Converter is one of the best applications to export OST to PST swiftly and accurately. It is a well-recommended application for users with poor technical skills.
Features of the utility
• Compatibility with Outlook Versions: The converter supports all versions of Microsoft Outlook, including 2003, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, and 2019. This ensures versatility and compatibility with a wide range of Outlook installations.
• Handling Encrypted and Password-Protected OST Files: The tool has the ability to convert encrypted and password-protected OST files. This feature ensures that even secured OST files can be successfully converted to PST.
• Splitting Large PST Files: It allows users to split large-sized PST files into smaller parts. This can be beneficial for managing and organizing data, especially when dealing with substantial amounts of information.
• Preservation of Data Integrity: During the conversion process, the tool preserves all data, including emails, contacts, tasks, notes, etc. This ensures that the integrity of the data is maintained throughout the conversion.
• Preview Functionality: The tool provides a preview of all converted data before saving it. This preview feature allows users to review the converted content and make sure everything is accurate and as expected.
Conclusion
The tool is ultimately one of the best solutions to export OST to PST. You should choose a conversion program carefully. But OST to PST Converter is the solution solution as compared to others. It also offers free trial pack to all users to convert a few ost files into pst without paying any fee.