Outlook by Microsoft recognizes two file formats: OST andPST. When you login in to Outlook by Microsoft, an OST file is produced. This
synchronizes all of your Outlook data; if you use Outlook without connecting to
the internet, the data will be synced anytime Outlook discovers data.
Although OST files may be used for synchronizing them, theymust be converted to PST format for backup. PST, unlike OST, doesn't synchronize data and is most appropriate for backup due to its mobility. Furthermore, you cannot simply import OST files into Outlook, and you must import PST files to recover the data.
But how can I convert an OST file to a PST file? This postwill walk you through the process of exporting OST files to PST format, so let's get started.
What are the OST andPST file formats?
- OST is an abbreviation for Offline Storage Table, whereasPST is an abbreviation for Personal Storage Table. Outlook, as previously
- Stated, supports these two file types for offline data synchronization and
backup.
- The primary function of the OST file is to synchronize data when using
Outlook in offline mode. When it comes to PST, various file types backup and
store data on your PC's storage.
- If you log in to Outlook, an OST file is produced, whereasPST files are generated when you generate a new Outlook data file.
- The synchronization of OST files is automatic, however, PST files must be
explicitly backed up.
Why is it Necessaryto Convert OST file to PST format?
Both of these files are essential for Outlook,however, there may be times when you require converting an OST file to PST format.
· Backups are stored in PST files you could wantto back up your old emails that are filling up your Outlook storage. After
that, the PST file may be imported into Outlook to recover all of the emails.
· When changing computers PST files can be used tomove Outlook data from one PC to another.
· If the exchange server fails PST files mightcome in handy. PST files may be used to recover the data without any problems.
· PST files as opposed to OST files are far moreportable due to their smaller size. Because PST files take up less space, you
may keep them in the cloud or on your computer's hard drive. This will
save up space used by OST files.
Methods for Converting an OST File to a PST File
There are several methods for converting OST files to PSTfiles; you may do it yourself or utilize third-party software/websites to do it
for you. For converting an OST file to PST format, utilize Outlook's
import/export wizard, archive technique, or drag and drop method. Here's how
you can go about it:
1. Using Outlook'sImport/Export Wizard
Outlook's import/export wizard can also be used to exportOutlook data as a PST file. To do so, follow the instructions below:
· Launch Outlook on your computer.
· Select the File menu item.
· Now, select Open & Export, followed byImport/Export.
· Choose Export to a file and then hit Next in thenext box.
· Select Outlook Data file (.PST) from the list ofpossibilities and then click Next.
· You will now be prompted to pick all of thefolders that should be exported to the PST file.
· Select the folder and tick the Includesubfolders option. After that, press the Next button.
· You must now choose a location to save the PSTfile. When you're finished, click Finish.
2. Using the Archive Option
The Archive tool in Outlook is the next method forconverting an OST file to a PST file. To proceed, follow the procedures
outlined below:
· Start Outlook on your computer.
· On the left pane, choose File, then Options.
· Pick AutoArchive Settings after clicking on theOptions option.
You must provide the archive length, or when you would likethe data to be continuously archived. Select the number of days by checking the
'Run AutoArchive Every [] Days' option.
· Now, click the Browse option and navigate to thespot where you want to save the file.
· Now press the OK button. After a predeterminednumber of days, the archived data will be stored as PST files.
3. Using Drag and Drop
The dragging and dropping method is another approach fortransferring an OST file to PST format. With this procedure, you must drag and
drop your emails to the PST file to switch them from OST to the current PST
file.
· Make sure you're logged into your Outlookaccount.
· Now, select the New Items option, followed byMore Items.
· Then, pick Outlook Data File.
· Choose Outlook Data File (.pst) and click OK inthe New Outlook Data File dialog.
· You must now input the filename of the PST fileand then click OK when finished.
The PST file will be created as a result of this. You may nowconvert OST to PST by dragging and dropping objects from Outlook to the PST file. If you are not interested in dragging and dropping the items, youcan simply copy them like any other file and then put them into the file named
PST.
4. Utilizing Third-Party Applications
Third-party application is one of the finest ways forconverting OST files to PST format. This approach is one of the simplest to master since it continuously transforms the file, unlike the other manual methods, which demand continual input.
There are other software available to convert an OST file toPST format, however, for the sake of this post, we will utilize Softaken Microsoft OST to PST Converter Tool. You can convert the file with any other conversion program of your
preference. Let's see how we can accomplish it-
Steps to Export OST ToPST files format for Outlook all version
· Download and Run the OST Converter software onyour system
· Browse Outlook OST file/folder to tool
· Select PST files from the export options
· Then choose location where you want to save yourresultant PST files
· At, the end click on the Convert Now tab tostart the conversion process.
Conclusion:-
If you would like to back up your Outlook data or move itfrom one PC to another, you need to switch the OST file to the PST file. If you
don't know how to transfer OST files to PST format and are seeking for a
tutorial to assist you, this post is for you. Here are all of the methods for
converting an OST file to a PST file.
