Ways to Convert OST to PST Files

Searching for a better solution to tackle the task of conversion of the Outlook OST files into PST file format? Look nowhere as this technical guide will bring some of the most revolutionary solutions to convert OST to PST files and along with them we will suggest one tool in the end that has the potential to outclass their peers.

However, before diving straight into the solution, let’s take a look at the detailed overview of both the files and why it becomes important to look for the conversion.

Why look for OST to PST file conversion? Reasons Explained

OST file:- It is one of the Outlook data files that allows users to access their emails, contacts, calendars, etc. even at times when there is no connection with the Exchange. OST file holds the copy of the Exchange mailbox data and this file actually works with the synchronization with the Exchange server.

PST file:- Similar to the OST file, it also stores Outlook contacts, tasks, emails, etc it. However, this file has an edge over the OST files as users can transfer them into any other system. Users can protect their PST files using a password, which is missing in the case of the OST files—accounts such as POP use PST files for storing the information.

Please note that the earlier version of the Outlook IMAP-based account uses PST, but after the Outlook 2016 version, they use OST files.

Now, let’s just focus on the key reasons that make users convert OST to PST files.

• At the time of migration, Outlook users require a PST file because you cannot move your OST file into another system. Users can also select PST file as taking the backup which helps them to restore their data at the difficult time.
• In situations when the Exchange server crashes or goes down for maintenance, users cannot make the changes in the OST file. Converting them into a PST file is the best possible solution for the users to regain access to their data.
• Corruption in the OST files is one of the most common reasons why users look to convert OST to PST files format.
• Many companies may be required to share their organization data with others, and as we know OST is a non-portable file so the sharing of the data from them becomes difficult. To solve the situation, OST to PST file conversion is one of the best solutions.

Apart from the given points, many others clearly state why it is essential to convert OST to PST files. But rather than focusing on more points now, it’s time to answer the question of what solutions are available to convert the OST files.

Solutions convert OST files into PST files (Highly Recommended Solutions)

The conversion solution has been categorized into two. One is manual and the other is the third-party conversion software. If we first look at the manual solution there are few options that users can choose, so below we have explained each one-by-one.

Key Consideration: - Before using any of the manual OST to PST file conversion, make sure to have a data backup. The below-cited method will consume time as at one point in time, users can process only one OST file.

Conversion Using Import/Export Option

Step#1: Go to the location where the Outlook shortcut is placed and then quickly launch Microsoft Outlook.

Step#2: Open the file tab of Outlook where you will see Open & Export. Click on Import/Export and go ahead.

Step#3: In the new wizard, kindly search for the Export to a file option and click on it.

Step#4: Select PST as a file type to export the item and click on Next.

Step#5: Now, select the folders you need to transfer them into PST, and once done click on Next.

Step#6: In this step, users need to select the location to save the final PST file with the help of the browse button.

Step#7: Hit the finish button to end the conversion process.

The next method we will discuss is to make the conversion by using drag and drop option.

Drag & Drop Solution to Convert OST file

Follow the procedure shared below to easily move the data from the OST file into the PST file.

Before using this approach for making a file conversion you should know that you can only be able to transfer emails. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how to use this method.

• Navigate to the location containing the folder that you are looking to export into a PST file.
• Pick the required emails you need to move and then make sure that you have already opened Outlook with the required PST file.
• Just drag the emails and drop them to the location you want in Outlook. You can also make a separate folder in Outlook.

Use the Auto/Archive Conversion Method to Copy OST emails into PST

This solution offers permission to users to move emails from Outlook into a PST file at a specific time interval. Follow the instructions shared below to use this method to convert OST to PST files.

• Open Outlook and after opening the first step you would be taking is to click on the file and options.
• Now click on the advanced section of the menu, where you need to choose Auto Archive Settings.
• In the Run AutoArchive section, make adjustments in the frequency for the archiving.
• Using the browse button, you can set the file to which the data will be transferred.
• Select the Start AutoArchive to start the archiving emails. After that, click on Ok to reflect the changes made.?

Conversions of OST file into PST Using Third-Party Software

As of now, we have talked about converting the OST file, but all three of the methods lack what users look into the method. A tool like Weeom OST to PST converter eliminates the limitation posed by the manual methods. It allows to conversion the OST file with the complete data with only the required data. Due to the given filter criteria in the software, users have an option to process the data.

Making the conversion of multiple OST files is possible with the tool.

Software Steps to Convert an OST File into a PST File

• Launch the converter tool in your PC/Laptop and ensure you run it as an admin.
• Add the OST files into the software using the software add button.
• After that, select the OST to PST which is one of the software ribbon bars.
• Select whether you want to export an existing or a new PST file.
• In the filter window, choose any required filters to apply and click new to continue.
• Use the folder mapping feature to map the folders of the OST file with the PST file.

After completing these steps to convert OST to PST files users can check the requested data into the PST file.

Summary of the Write-up

Converting the OST file becomes necessary in many situations which we have already discussed here. We have covered the drag & drop method, Auto Archiving solutions, and third-party software. ?The manual approach to convert OST to PST discussed is able to perform the conversion, but due to multiple limitations. However, the third-party utility eliminates the complexity that comes during the conversion. Also, users can explore the free version of the software to know more about it.