How to Convert OST to PST without Outlook? Complete Guide
In email management, the OST file serves as an essential element for storing and accessing mailbox data when offline. However, sometimes, users need to convert OST to PST without having the latest version of Outlook installed. It often occurs due to reasons such as file corruption or the need for email backup.
Suppose you want to convert your OST file to PST format for data recovery or creating backups. This blog will help you through the most effective methods, including SysInfo OST to PST Converter Software. It offers a quick, secure, and reliable conversion process to ensure that your important data remains accessible.
Major Reasons to Convert OST File to PST Format
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Converting an OST (Offline Storage Table) file to a PST (Personal Storage Table) format can be essential in various scenarios. Below are some of the major reasons why users might need to convert their OST file to PST:
- OST files can become corrupted due to software issues or improper shutdowns, and converting to PST helps recover data.
- PST files can be accessed without needing Outlook or an Exchange server, which makes them ideal for data retrieval.
- Converting OST to PST provides a reliable backup and stores data in a portable format.
- Unlike OST files, PST files are easily shared and transferred across different systems.
- Also, PST files allow better organization, archiving, and managing of emails in Outlook.
Top 4 Methods to Convert OST to PST
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If you need to convert an OST to PST, it’s important to choose the right method to ensure a smooth conversion. There are several methods available, each with its own set of advantages depending on the situation. Whether you’re dealing with file corruption or simply want to access your data without Outlook. It’s essential to pick the best method that fits your requirements.
Important Note: Before you get started with export OST to PST manually. It’s crucial to ensure that your Outlook is properly synced with the Exchange and that you have the login credentials. This will ensure that your data is up-to-date and accessible. Additionally, we strongly recommend taking a backup of your mailbox data and storing it securely. This precaution is particularly important, as manual methods of conversion may carry some risks, including data loss or corruption.
Method 1: Use Outlook Import/Export Feature to Convert OST to PST
One of the simplest methods to convert an OST file to PST is by using Outlook’s built-in Import/Export feature. This method works well if your OST file is not corrupted and you have access to the Outlook application. Here’s how you can convert your OST file to PST using this feature:
- Firstly, open MS Outlook on your system.
- Now, click on File and choose Open & Export.
- Then, select Import/Export >> Export to a File >>
- After that, choose Outlook Data File (.pst) and click
- Select the mailbox data or folder you want to export and press
- Further, define the path where you want to save your PST files.
- Lastly, click on Finish to initiate the conversion of OST to PST.
Method 2: Use Auto-Archive Setting to Convert OST File to PST
Another effective method to convert an OST file to PST is by using the Auto-Archive feature in Outlook. This built-in tool automatically moves older items from your OST file to PST. Follow the steps below to use Auto-Archive for conversion:
- Firstly, open MS Outlook on your computer.
- Now, click on File and choose
- Then, press Advance and Auto Archive Settings.
- After that, select the folder you want to migrate.
- Under the Auto-Archive settings, choose Move old items.
- Further, define the location where the archived items will be saved.
- Finally, click on OK to save your settings.
Method 3: Use Drag & Drop to Convert OST to PST
This method allows you to manually move data from your OST file to a newly created PST file. By using the drag-and-drop emails, contacts, and other items you want to save. Here’s how to do it:
- Launch Outlook on your computer with the OST file already configured.
- Now, click on File and choose Advance Settings.
- Under the Data Files, click Add and choose Outlook Data File (.pst).
- Then, give your new PST file a name and save it in a location of your choice.
- After that, expand both the OST file and the newly created PST file.
- Select the emails individually and drag-drop them into the newly created PST file.
Challenges of Manual OST to PST Conversion
The manual convert an OST file to PST format is useful and free to use. However, it comes with several challenges that can impact the conversion process. Here are the key challenges to consider:
- Manually moving items from an OST file to a PST file can be lengthy and time-consuming.
- Works only if the OST file is not corrupted. Corrupt files can’t be converted manually.
- There’s a chance of losing or missing data during the conversion if not done carefully.
- Large OST files can slow down the process and cause performance issues in Outlook.
- You need a working Outlook to use manual methods, limiting its applicability if Outlook is unavailable.
Method 4: Quick & Effective Method to Convert OST to PST
The most reliable method to convert an OST file to PST is by using specialized OST to PST converter software. These tools are specifically designed to handle large and complex OST files. It also repairs corrupted or inaccessible files during the conversion process. Additionally, this tool is ideal for users who need to recover data from corrupted files or convert large volumes of data. It provides more advanced features to make the conversion more effective such as:
- It converts OST to PST in bulk without any specific file size limitations.
- Also, migrate Outlook OST files to Office 365, Gmail, and other email clients.
- Allow users to preview the content before saving it into the resultant format.
- Option to remove duplicate emails based on your requirements.
- Offer a Date Filter to a specific date range for selective conversion.
- It enables users to save all Emails, Contacts, etc. without data loss.
- Provide a simple interface, which is easy to understand and operate.
- It is highly compatible with all Windows earlier and latest versions.
Simple Steps to Convert OST to PST:
- Firstly, launch the OST to PST Converter Tool on your device.
- Choose Select folder or Single File/Multiple Files to browse the OST file. Click
- Now, select options to add an OST file and click
- After that, preview and select the files/folders and press
- Further, choose the Saving format from the given list.
- Apply advanced features based on user requirements.
- Define the location to save the resultant OST file.
- Lastly, click on Convert to initiate the conversion process.
Conclusion
In this blog, we have introduced the different methods to convert OST to PST without Outlook. For this, we have provided the manual and a professional tool. Sometimes, the manual creates a hassle for bulk conversion. Therefore, users prefer the recommended tool for complete and effective results. Moreover, it provides 100% accurate conversion results. Also, you can try the free version of this tool to evaluate its performance.
