When you encounter difficulties with your Outlook mailbox and have an OST file, it can feel like you are stuck with a treasure chest full of essential emails, contacts, and calendar items, but cannot unlock it. By converting the OST file into a PST file, you have created the perfect key that unlocks the data within your mailbox for easy backup, migration, and sharing.

Whether you are switching to a new machine, trying to save space, or just protecting your information, the proper process can save you time. We will be discussing three easy-to-use solutions, plus one solution that truly shines! To make sure your mailbox data stays in your control, safe from corruption, and accessible.

Get started with our guidance and never miss any chunk of your data during OST to PST conversion.

Reasons to Convert OST to PST

Here are the basic reasons to convert OST file into PST:

• When the Exchange server is down, the OST files become accessible. But when you convert OST to PST, you get a backup of your mailbox data with access to emails, contacts, calendars, etc.
• As you switch to a new system or migrate to a different email client, PST files are easy to import to a new environment without any data loss.
• PST files are much easier to share with other Outlook users and are even easier to archive for mailbox management.
• OST file has size limitations, but when you convert to PST, you can overcome these size limitations.
• Oversized OST files are prone to corruption, but PST files can help to mitigate any such risks.

3 Methods to Convert OST Files to PST

Here are the top 3 free methods to follow when looking to convert OST to PST.

1. Use the Import/Export Feature

In this method, we will use the Import/Export feature of Outlook. Follow the steps below to know more.

• Open Outlook and tap on the File menu. Click on Open & Export and tap on Import/Export.

• Choose Export to a file and hit Next.

• Choose Outlook Data File (.pst), then tap Next.

• Select the folder(s) you need to export and click on Next. Include subfolders if needed.

• Choose the location where you wish to save the PST files. Do choose ‘Replace duplicates with items exported’. Tap on Finish.

2. Use the Auto Archiving Feature

When you use the Auto Archiving feature in Outlook, you can save the items in a separate PST file. With this, you can archive older messages and manage your mailbox storage. To enable the auto-archiving feature, here are the steps to follow:

• Access Outlook and tap on the File menu. Click on Options.
• Go to Advanced and tap on Auto Archive Settings.
• Choose the number of days in which you need to run auto archiving. Choose the folder to save your archived file. Tap OK.
• The mailbox items from your OST file will be saved as per your archiving settings.

3. Use the Drag and Drop Method

To move data selectively from the Outlook account, you can create another data file in Outlook and then utilise the drag and drop method to move all your files. Here is what you need to follow.

• For creating a new data file in Outlook, tap on New Email, expand More Items, and select Outlook Data File. Hit OK.
• Save your PST file in your desired location, and a new data file will be created.
• Select some data from your older account and then put it into your new account. Tap on Yes.

Manual methods are free, but they come with a lot of limitations.

• Security risks are a significant concern as there exists a high possibility of virus and malware attacks.
• Time is another issue, as there can be longer delays in conversion and even high chances of failure.
• The most important thing is your data, and the manual methods do not always guarantee no data loss.

So, how do we counter such limitations? Use a top-quality OST to PST converter tool. With this tool, you get the best conversion services along with an easy-to-use interface and zero data loss guaranteed.

Use data and date-based filters, split large PST files or export data files in bulk with this converter tool. Equipped with high-end algorithms, the tool assures the preservation of data integrity. Use the preview features to verify your conversion data. For a hands-on experience of the tool, take the free trial today.

Final Say

With our guidance, you will be all set with the best methods to convert OST to PST. Follow the steps carefully when using the manual methods, but as per our recommendation, we advise you to opt for the OST to PST utility. With the top-quality features, you get all your data converted with complete data integrity in seconds. Take the trial now.

FAQs

Q1. Can ScanPST convert OST to PST?

No. ScanPST is not ideal for OST to PST conversion, but it is used to repair your corrupted data files and get them up and running again.

Q2. What is the main difference between OST and PST files?

The main difference between OST and PST files in Outlook is in their purpose and storage location. OST files are for offline access to email data in sync with an Exchange server, and on the other hand, PST files are for storing email data locally, often used for archiving or backup purposes.

Q3. What is the best tool to convert OST to PST?

There are a lot of tools in the market that stand out in OST to PST conversion. But being a top-rated tool, the best tool to go for is Kernel for OST to PST Converter. Use the top features and carry out the conversion with complete data integrity.

• Meta Title: 3 Methods To Convert OST File to PST Format
• Meta Description: 3 proven OST to PST conversion methods: Native Outlook export for active accounts, third-party tools for orphaned files, and manual Exchange sync. Preserve folder structure & attachments.
• Meta Tags: Convert OST File to PST, Convert OST to PST,