OST and PST are both data files used with Microsoft Outlook, but due to certain circumstances, like the crashing of your Exchange server, lead users to convert OST files to PST files. So, in this article, we will cover some tips and tricks to perform this type of file conversion.
An OST file is created when a user creates their new Outlook profile irrespective of the fact that Outlook is configured using Outlook.com, IMAP, Exchange Server, etc. It is saved on user systems that reflect the user data but work with the synchronization of the Exchange Server. But if there is any problem in the Exchange Server, it will have a major impact on the working of the OST file.
At the time when the OST file is inaccessible for any reason, then many users look to convert their OST to PST. However, some users might face difficulties when trying to do so. So, to make it easier for users to make the conversion, we have shared some insights on the solution.
Why Would You Want to Convert Your OST file to a PST?
There can be multiple reasons which make users want to convert their OST file.
Sometimes the user needs to access their data from the OST, but they cannot directly import the OST file into Outlook, so due to this limitation converting them to PST will solve their problem. Many times, the user wants to share the data with another team within as well as outside their organization.
To get around the situation where there is no access of their data due to an Exchange Server, many people will need to convert the OST to PST.
Since you cannot use the OST file in other email clients, you can perform the conversion to move the data from the OST file into the PST file.
These are some of the reasons behind the needing to convert OST to PST, so now we will discuss how to do the conversion.
Solutions Used to Convert OST Files to PST Files
Now that you are aware of some of the reasons to make the conversion of OST files to PST files, lets look at a solution which can help you perform the required task. Here, we will let you know about the usage of the Outlook Import/Export wizard to convert the OST to an Outlook PST file.
Convert OST file to PST Using Outlook Import/Export Option
The first method which we will cover is to take you through the Outlook Import/Export process to convert an OST to PST file. So kindly follow the steps below:
- After opening Outlook, make sure to select the Open & Export option from the Outlook menu. After that, choose Import/Export.
- Now the Import and Export wizard will pop up, where you will be prompted to choose an action. Here you will need to select the Export to a file option and click on Next.
- Next, you will need to select which type of file you want to export to. Make sure to pick the PST file option and then click on the Next button.
- Choose the folder to export from. Also, you can include the sub-folders. Once done, click on Next.
- Select the location to save the PST file to and choose if you want to replace duplicates or allow duplicates to be created.
Convert OST to PST via Outlook Archiving Method
Microsoft Outlook provides another option to convert OST to PST, which allows you to move the mailbox items except for contacts from the OST file into the PST file. Follow the steps below to start converting your OST file.
- Open Outlook and click on File. Then click on Options and then on Advanced. Next, you will need to click on AutoArchive Settings.
- A new window will appear which will let you customize your archive. Set the AutoArchive setting to every 14 days. Using the Browse button, choose the location to save the file. Click on the OK button to finish the process.
Once you have done the above procedure, the data from the OST file will get moved to the PST file. But there are various risks associated with doing this.
- There is a chance that the conversion will stop if the size of the OST file is large.
- It will take more time to complete the conversion and it’s possible to have errors while doing the conversion can result in data loss.
- The conversion may result in corruption of the OST file.
A Better Way to Convert OST Files to PST Files
As far as the manual methods are concerned, they can take a lot of time and have their limitations. Therefore, users should use other solutions to overcome the problems faced when using manual methods. Shoviv OST to PST converter is one of the most popular solutions to convert your files.
The software comes with a wide range of features to help users achieve the results quickly. Due to its intuitive user interface, the app is very easy to use. The software is also capable of converting multiple files at the same time. Users can also preview the contents of the file, which lets them ensure that only the correct data will be converted.
It also allows for the removal of non-required items with its data filter option. Users can apply the filtered criteria to make changes. One of its key features is that it can resume the interrupted conversion if it’s interrupted. And if you use the incremental option, it will only process the newer items.
Users can also download the demo version of this OST to PST converter free, which will allow them to see all the functionality of the software.
Final Thoughts
Converting an OST file to a PST can be a complex task. However, some of the solutions shown have downsides that you may want to avoid. Instead of using these other methods, you can also look to convert your OST to PST with the help of third-party software. You can also use the trial version of the software listed above to learn about its capabilities.
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