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A Step-by-Step Guide to Converting OST to PST Without Data Loss

Introduction

Email management is an important feature of personal and professional communication. Microsoft Outlook users must convert OST files to PST files when migrating accounts, recovering data or managing backups. This guide will walk you through the procedure step by step providing complete explanations.

What are OST and PST files in Outlook?

OST files

OST files allow you to access emails, calendars and other data when offline. These files are created when you use Outlook with Exchange Server, IMAP or Office 365. However, they are not portable across multiple systems or profiles therefore conversion to PST is required in some cases.

PST files

PST files save emails, calendars, events and tasks to a local drive. They are portable and can be imported into Outlook from any system making them ideal for migrations or backups.

Why convert OST to PST?

There are various situations where OST to PST conversion is required:

• Recover data from inaccessible OST files: If an Outlook profile is corrupted, the OST file becomes inaccessible. Converting it to PST will allow you to access your data.
• Moving to a New System or Account: When transferring Outlook data to a new device or email account, PST files are the best option.
• Backup and Archival Needs: PST files are a convenient format for storing emails and data for an extended time.
• Server Downtime: Converting OST files allows you to access critical data during server outages.

Methods for OST to PST Conversion

1. Use the Outlook Export Option.

Outlook includes a facility for exporting data to PST files. Take these steps:

• Open Microsoft Outlook: Open Outlook with the profile containing the OST file.
• Navigate to the File tab and click Open & Export > Import/Export.
• In the Import and Export Wizard, select Export to a file and go to the next step.
• Select Outlook Data File (.pst) and click Next.
• Select a folder to export: Choose the mailbox folder or items you want to export and select Include Subfolders.
• Save the file. Choose the PST file's destination, name it, and click Finish.

Limitations: This method requires access to the Outlook profile containing the OST file. It may not function if the OST file is orphaned or corrupted.

2. Using Third-Party Conversion Tools.

How can I convert OST files to PST? Then I recommend you try DataVare OST to PST Converter. The ideal choice for clients is to convert their whole OST data to PST. OST emails, contacts, notes, calendars, events, tasks and to-do lists can all be exported to PST format. Users can convert corrupted or orphaned OST files into PST format. Try out the product's features with the free demo version. The utility's free trial version lets users convert few items from an OST file to PST format.
Step-by-Step Guide for Converting OST to PST Format

• Download DataVare OST to PST Converter on your computer.
• Choose the right OST file/folder from the system.
• Users must select a file location to save the OST in PST format to the desired destination.
• In the final stage, click the Convert Now button to convert the OST to PST format.

3. Manual Archival Method

Outlook's Archive function can also convert OST to PST.

• Open Outlook and ensure the OST file is available.
• To enable Auto-Archive, navigate to File > Options > Advanced and click on Auto Archive Settings.
• Select an archive location and check it is in PST format.
• Allow Outlook to archive data from the OST file to a PST file.

Conclusion

Converting OST to PST is an important skill for handling Outlook data successfully. Whether you're recovering emails, moving accounts or establishing backups the procedures discussed above give reliable answers for any situation. Consider the complexity of your requirements and select the proper way, whether manual or through specialized software.