Summary: - OST and PST files are Microsoft Outlook file formats used to store user mailbox data, including their email messages, contacts, calendars, journal & etc. A major unforeseen server crash can lead to the need to convert Exchange OST files back into MS Outlook in order to restore access to them. In this article, we examine several different free methods of converting your OST files into PST files. These include using the Import/Export feature and using Auto Archive settings, as well as other techniques. In addition to these methods of creating your portable PST file, you can also use an OST to PST Converter Tool, which will allow you to convert multiple OST files into PST format in one easy step.

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OST and PST Files — Overview

OST files, which signify Offline Storage Table and Offline Outlook Data File, keep a duplicate of the mailbox data on the server. They allow users to operate even without server connectivity. As a user, you can effortlessly edit, compose, attach files, save emails, and delete messages and other mailbox items, with these modifications being up-to-date when you next connect with the Exchange Server.
In contrast, PST denotes Personal Storage Table and is the most recognized data file format for Outlook, compatible with or generated by MS Outlook, including EML, MSG, and OST. All mailbox items are kept in duplicate format on the user's local hard disk through Microsoft Outlook configured with POP, which includes Email, Contacts, Calendar, Tasks, and Journals. An Outlook PST File can be generated by using the Export to File function in the Import/Export function of Outlook. A PST file will allow you to have a password that will be required to be entered every time you wish to open a PST file in Outlook for full access.

OST vs PST — What's The Difference?

The following is a table comparing OST and PST Files directly, so that you can see exactly why it is important to convert OST Files to PST Files!

• OST files automatically synchronize changes with the email server as long as there’s an internet connection, while PST does not allow such functionality; it only permits management within MS Outlook, provided you have internet access.
• OST files are exclusively compatible with Microsoft Exchange Server, whereas PST  files work with other services, including Microsoft Exchange client and Microsoft Outlook.
• After Microsoft Outlook 2016, the client saves all emails and appointments from IMAP and MAPI accounts in an offline storage table (.ost) file, while PST  files are utilized for IMAP or MAPI accounts from Outlook 2013.
• If there are minor corruption or accessibility issues in the OST, you can utilize the ScanOST.exe tool. Conversely, in the event of PST file corruption or damage, Microsoft Outlook provides the ScanPST.exe tool, which aids users in resolving all Outlook PST file issues. 

Why Is It Necessary to Convert Exchange OST to PST?

Several reasons necessitate the conversion of Exchange OST for MS Outlook. Below are some commonly discussed motivations:

•  Importing OST Data: Occasionally, users aim to migrate mailbox data from one system to another, and using an OST file can complicate this process.
•  Mitigating Data Loss Risks: Your Exchange OST file may have grown large, corrupted, or damaged. Thus, to mitigate mailbox size issues, converting OST to PST can be advantageous.
•  Accidental Deletion of Exchange: Suppose your Exchange Server fails, or somehow the Exchange data is lost. In that case, previously converting OST  files to PST is the preferred solution.
•  Gaining Online Access to Data: If you wish to access or manage your offline-saved OST file in the Outlook PST format.
•  Switching Email Clients: Besides Exchange and Outlook, the OST file does not support other email clients. Therefore, you must convert the OST file to PST to transfer old mailbox items to different email clients.

 Numerous reasons exist for converting OST files to PST format. Now, let’s explore the various methods for exporting OST  files to PST format.

 
Top Techniques to Convert OST to PST for MS Outlook Free

 Here, I have outlined three top methods for converting an OST file to PST file format. However, before initiating the procedure, ensure you have synchronized the Outlook account with the Exchange profile and have the appropriate login credentials. We also recommend backing up the mailbox data securely, as no manual method is entirely risk-free.

Method 1: Convert OST to PST via the Auto Archive Functionality

The Outlook email application provides archiving data options to transform the OST mailbox folders into the PST file format. It can transition all the items from the OST mailbox to PST format. This capability does not archive contacts but facilitates the transfer of other mailbox items. Adhere to the instructions precisely:

•  Launch the MS Outlook application and select the File tab. 
• Navigate to Options, and within the Outlook Options wizard, direct your cursor towards the Advanced section. 
• Here, you need to click on the AutoArchive Settings.
• An Auto Archive dialog will appear on your screen; activate the desired option: 
• Once you have chosen the required setting, click the Ok button. 
• Ultimately, your OST file items will be stored in a PST file with the specified archive settings.

Method 2: Transform OST to PST via the Import/Export Functionality

Follow the instructions below and ensure you use the Outlook credentials with the Exchange account to convert OST files to PST format. 

• Open Outlook and go to File. 
• Select the Open & Export section and click on the Import & Export function. 
• Here, choose Export to a File, then click Next. 
• Opt for the Outlook data file (.pst) and click on Next. 
• Now, pick the folder you wish to export and click Next. 
• Press the Browse button to designate the path for the output .pst file. 
• Select the additional option for handling duplicates and click Finish. 
• Set a password on the PST file if you wish, and click Ok to conclude the process.

 All these manual methods may assist you in converting OST files to PST format in MS Outlook, but they are time-intensive for users and come with additional limitations, such as: 

• The manual techniques are lengthy and laborious. 
• The process to convert OST to PST files manually is complex. 
• Experts suggest there are risks of data loss. 
• The operation may become stuck if performed incorrectly. 
• No assurances for the backup of all mailbox items. 
• If the OST file size is substantial, then the OST to PST conversion may halt. 
• The method does not apply to corrupted or damaged OST files.

Method 3: Convert OST Files to PST Using a Professional Solution

DataVare OST to PST Converter is the top and most dependable tool for converting OST files to PST format. It can convert your single and multiple OST files to the Outlook PST file format. Furthermore, you can also change the OST file data into other formats such as PST, EML, MSG, MBOX, HTML, etc. The software permits users to convert Offline Exchange OST to PST without Outlook on all Windows platforms and more. You can also import OST files into Gmail, Office 365, Zoho Mail, Yandex Mail, etc. It is advised to first try the complimentary demo version of this software before converting OST to PST files:

How to transform OST to PST?

Here are the straightforward steps of the OST to PST Converter Software that enables users to  convert OST files to PST format with ease: 
Step 1: Download and Install the Prominent OST to PST Converter. 
Step 2: Run as administrator and click on browse. 
Step 3: Choose the file that you wish to convert. 
Step 4: Then, preview the OST file emails along with attachments. 
Step 5: Check the folder from the tree structure. Click next. 
Step 6: Here, select the PST saving formats from the dropdown. 
Step 7: Choose the built-in software options. 
Step 8: Click on the path to the save button and select the saving location. 
Step 9: Finally, hit the convert button to initiate the conversion. 
Step 10: The conversion process is completed and saved on the designated path.
Essential Features of Professional Software:

• Convert Exchange OST files to Outlook PST format. 
• Export single and multiple OST files to PST format at the same time. 
• Displays a preview of the OST file data before the OST to PST conversion. 
• Convert OST to PST, EML, MSG, MBOX, and other formats. 
• Eliminate duplicate emails from the selected OST folders. 
• Option to migrate or back up emails, excluding attachment files. 
• You can also divide the resultant PST files based on size. 
• Support PST files of various Outlook versions like 2021, 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010, etc. 
• User-friendly interface for both technical and non-technical users. 
• The software is compatible with all Windows versions, like 11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Vista, XP, etc.

Conclusion

In the preceding text, I have outlined the complementary techniques for transforming OST files into PST format in Outlook versions 2016, 2013, 2010, 2007, and so forth. It is possible that manual methods may not meet your expectations. In such situations, you might consider utilizing the OST to PST Converter Tool, as it will assist you in converting OST files to PST format. I trust this article aids in addressing your inquiry regarding the conversion of OST to PST files.