Microsoft Outlook saves Email into two file formats i.e. OST & PST. When a user works without an Internet connection in Outlook all the data is stored in OST Format. The User can neither import OST to Outlook nor open it unless we convert it into PST. Therefore, in this article, we are going to discuss 2 methods to Convert OST File to PST.
Difference Between OST & PST
Before we tell you the methods, we would like to highlight the key differences between OST and PST. This will give the user an insightful knowledge about the issue.
| Basis of Difference | OST | PST |
| Definition | MS Outlook Stores Offline Outlook Data ( or OST ) format for synchronization with the exchange server. It can be accessed online and offline and stores essential data. | PST also known as Personal Storage Table stores Outlook Mails and other items and saves them on your PC. |
| Internet Connection | Changes in OST do not require an Internet connection. Amends made in MS Outlook automatically synchronize in the OST file. | An Internet connection is mandatory to make changes in the PST file. |
| File Compatibility | OST files are only compatible with the Exchange server. | PST files are compatible with both exchange servers and MS Outlook, |
Need for Converting OST to PST
After intense research, we have found that these two file formats are very different and that there is a need to change the OST file to a PST file.
- Due to sudden power outages, server crashes, software corruption etc., we can face Exchange server failure. Once the server crashes it may be unable to connect to the Exchange server again.
- Due to improper termination, lack of storage etc., sometime OST files get corrupted.
- To open and view corrupt OST files, it is required to be converted into PST files.
2 Proven ways to change OST file to PST file:
In this, we are going to discuss 2 ways to convert Outlook OST to PST. Firstly we will be discussing using Import/Export feature, and the other is a more professional one using OST to PST Converter.
Convert OST to PST using Import/Export feature
- Launch Outlook and go to the desired file.
- Left-click on File located in the top left corner.
- Select Open & Export and left-click on the Import/Export feature.
- Here, select Export to a file then click on Next.
- Choose the option Outlook data file (.pst) and click on Next.
- Now, select the desired folder to export and click on Next.
- Finally left click on Finish.
Drawbacks of the Manual Method
- This method is lengthy and time-consuming.
- Any wrong procedure can result in data loss.
- Large files may cause the Application to crash.
- Corrupt or damaged files cannot be converted.
Many users might find the manual process too lengthy and technical. To tackle such problems we have a tool to convert OST file to PST. It is known as OST to PST Converter. This tool is very easy to use. It comes loaded with useful features. This tool can detect and delete duplicate files, Mail filters include Date Range Filter. Even a layman can easily execute the steps. The file hierarchy is maintained. The steps mentioned below can Change OST file to PST with ease
Professional method using OST to PST Converter Tool
- Install and Run the OST to PST Converter as an Administrator on your PC.
- The software wizard will be open and you will be presented with two options: Single File/Multiple Files and Select Folder, Select your desired option.
- Left-Click on Next which is located on the bottom left corner.
- Now Select Files or Select Folder to add OST files.
- After adding OST files click on Next.
- All the files and folders are represented in Tree-structured format.
- Select the folder/files you want to Convert.
- Finally, Click on Convert.
Conclusion
In this Informative article, we discussed the ways to Convert OST File to PST Files. Firstly we discussed the manual method which is tedious and time-consuming. The second method involved Using OST to PST Converter Tool, which is very efficient and reliable. I hope the reader is now more enlightened and chooses the best option for their problem.
Also Read: https://www.thesocialfolks.com/reliable-ways-to-convert-pst-to-pdf-with-attachments/
