How to Convert OST File to PST Format in Simple Steps

Many Outlook users face situations when their mailboxes become inaccessible. The reason can be profile corruption, sudden system failure, or Exchange Server downtime. When it happens, you cannot open the OST file that is already stored in your system. As the OST file depends on the original Outlook profile, users quickly realize that they need a PST file to access their emails again. It creates a strong need to find simple methods to convert OST file to PST.

Since PST files are portable and easy to import into any Outlook account, they become the best option to restore or transfer mailbox data. Users often convert OST to PST to switch devices, recover lost emails, or keep a readable backup for future use. This blog provides you a clear and easy-to-follow steps along with the Aryson OST to PST Converter to export OST to PST in a hassle-free manner.

Brief About the OST File & PST Format

It is quite important to understand why the OST to PST conversion matters. Along with that, how the right approach can make the entire process smooth and reliable.

An OST (Offline Outlook Data File) stores offline copies of your mailbox. Meanwhile, a PST (Personal Storage Table) file helps you access your emails anytime and anywhere. When Outlook crashes, the Exchange account is removed, or the system changes, users lose access to the OST file. Therefore, it is the easiest way to convert OST file to PST file. Then, restore mailbox data with accuracy.

To simplify this task, many users depend on professional OST to PST Converter that helps complete to perform OST to PST conversion safely.

Why Users Need to Convert OST to PST

Understanding these reasons will help you see why this process is helpful in everyday work.

Users often need to convert OST File to PST due to several situations. Outlook may not open, the mailbox may become orphaned, or the system may crash suddenly. Also, when any of you switch companies, they generally proceed with the PST file to carry their mailbox data. Additionally, PST files make it easier to access emails without a server connection. Because of these reasons, converting OST files to PST format becomes important for smooth workflow.

Manual Solutions to Convert OST File to PST Format

There are multiple ways to convert OST files. Manual methods work only when Outlook is connected to the original account. Automated tools can convert any OST file, including inaccessible or orphaned files. Below, you will find each method explained step-by-step so you can choose the right one for your situation.

Method 1: Convert OST to PST Using Outlook’s Import/Export Feature

Well, Outlook provides built-in Import/Export option to move mailbox data from an OST file into a PST file. If your Outlook profile is active and connected to the server, this method can be used safely. Follow the given steps to complete the export:

• Simply launch Microsoft Outlook on your computer.
• After that, navigate to the File menu of MS Outlook.
• Now, tap on the Import & Export button from the given options.
• Then, a new window will appear. Choose Export to a file and hit Next.
• Select Outlook Data File (.pst) as the export format.
• Here, choose the OST mailbox you want to convert. If you want subfolders included, tick the Include Subfolders checkbox.
• Click Browse, pick the destination where the PST file should be saved, and then click Finish.

Note: It works only when Outlook is installed. Also, it should be connected to the original Exchange account. Without this connection, the method will not export OST data.

Method 2: Convert OST to PST Using Drag and Drop

This is a basic manual approach. To accomplish this, users can manually move emails from an OST file to a newly created PST file. Just keep in mind that your Outlook should function properly for this method to work.

• Again, open the Outlook application to start the process.
• Create a new PST file inside Outlook.
• Select the folders or individual emails from your OST mailbox.
• Now, drag them and drop them into the new PST file.

Important Note: You cannot drag default folders like Inbox, Contacts, or Calendar. Also, they should remember that this method is time-consuming and not enough for large data volumes.

Method 3: Convert OST File to PST Using the Archive Option

Also, Outlook allows you to archive emails into a PST file. This method is helpful to move older emails into a separate file. However, it does not include contacts. Just go through the given steps to convert OST File to PST:

• Open Outlook and click the File tab.
• Select the Archive option from the Cleanup Tools menu.
• Choose the folders you want to archive from your OST mailbox.
• Now, hit Browse and pick a location to save the new PST file.
• Finally, press the Finish button to begin the archiving process.
• When you complete the process, navigate to the selected location to find the PST file.

You should keep in mind that this method works only for emails. Hence, it excludes contacts along with some default folders.

Limitations Associated with Manual OST to PST Conversion Methods

Manual methods are free, yet they come with several drawbacks, of which you should be aware:

• It works only when the original Outlook profile and Exchange account are active.
• Moreover, it is not suitable for bulk OST file conversion.
• Additionally, there are high chances of data loss during the export process.
• Furthermore, it provides very limited output formats.
• Along with that, it takes a long time due to multiple manual steps.
• If you miss any step, it may disturb or break the folder structure.
• Apart from that, it requires technical knowledge to perform correctly.

Best Automated Solution to Convert OST File to PST Format with Ease

When you want a safe and accurate way to convert your OST files to PST, the Aryson OST to PST Converter works as the most reliable solution. It not only simplifies the entire process but also ensures that you never lose your important mailbox data. This professional solution can convert them into PST without affecting folder hierarchy or file quality. Moreover, it supports Outlook OST files from all versions of Outlook. As a result, you can work smoothly.

Simplified Steps to Convert OST File to PST Format

• Download and install the Aryson OST to PST Converter on your system.
• Choose the specific OST file, click on the Open button to add your OST file.
• Now, you will get the complete preview of your OST mailbox folders >> Next.
• After that, choose PST as the output format from the saving options.
• Here, the user can set advanced features according to the user’s requirements.
• Choose the path to save and click Convert button to save the OST File as PST.

Conclusion

Now, you know the reliable ways to access Outlook data when email accounts do not work properly or the system becomes unstable. However, the manual options in Outlook can handle the task in a few situations. Manual fixes work when the mailbox is still connected to the original profile. To directly convert OST file to PST, we also introduce to most recommended solution above. This approach also saves time and reduces the chances of mistakes. Once the right method is chosen, users can regain access to their important mailbox data and continue their work without disruption.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I convert an OST file to PST if my Outlook profile is deleted?

Ans: In such cases, the Aryson OST to PST Converter is required to read and convert the OST file into PST without needing the original profile or server connection.

2. What happens if my OST file is encrypted—can it still be converted?

Ans: Encrypted OST files cannot be exported using Outlook’s built-in options. However, they can still be converted with the help of Aryson OST to PST Converter.

3. Does converting OST to PST change the folder structure?

Ans: Manual methods may change or skip some folders, especially default ones. Aryson OST to PST Converter keeps the original folder hierarchy intact.

4. Is it possible to Export OST to PST when Outlook is in offline mode?

Ans: No, Outlook’s manual options require an active connection with the original mailbox or profile. I, the Export feature, will not work. Aryson OST to PST Converter is the only reliable option in such situations. more