Have you ever encountered a situation where you needed to convert OST files to PST, but weren't quite sure how to do it? You're not alone. This task can often seem daunting, especially if you do not have a technical background. But don't worry, we're here to help!
In this blog post, we'll break down everything you need to know about OST and PST files, why you might need to convert one to the other, and the easiest way to do it. We'll also guide you through the manual methods and introduce you to an efficient tool, the SysCurve OST to PST Converter, which makes this process much simpler and safer.
Whether you're an IT pro looking for a more efficient solution or a regular user wanting to tackle this task independently, this guide is for you. So, let's dive right in!"
Understanding 'OST File'
OST, or Offline Storage Table, is a popular file format. Platforms like MS Exchange use this file to save a copy of your emails, contacts, calendars, tasks, and notes on your computer. If you're using MS Outlook 2013 or later with an IMAP email account, you'll find all your data stored in an OST file.
One of the main benefits of OST files is they allow you to access your downloaded emails and calendars, and even create and manage new emails when offline.
Reasons to Convert OST to PST
There are several reasons you might want to convert your OST file into a PST format. Perhaps the most common is to create a backup of your OST file. This backup prevents data loss or accidental deletion. Other reasons might include dealing with a corrupted OST file, changing jobs, or moving data around.
How to Convert OST to PST?
You can convert OST files into PST either manually or by using a specialized tool called an OST to PST converter. We'll guide you through both methods.
Instant Solution - SysCurve OST to PST Converter
Repair and convert OST to PST, MBOX, EML, MSG, and other file formats.
Converting OST to PST Manually: Step-by-step Guide
Here's how to convert OST files into PST manually. We'll look at two popular methods. For both, you need to be connected to the Exchange server and have MS Outlook ready to use.
Remember: It's wise to make a copy of your OST file before you start to convert OST files to PST.
Method 1: Convert OST to PST by Exporting Your Mailbox
- Open MS Outlook with your MS Exchange account.
- Click on the File menu.
- Select 'Open & Export' and then 'Import & Export'
- Click on Export to a file and then the 'Next' button
- Choose 'Outlook data file (.pst)' and then click the 'Next' button
- Select the folder you want to export and click the 'Next' button
- Provide a location to save the PST file.
- Choose Do not export duplicate items and click the 'Finish' button
Method 2: Convert OST to PST Using the Archive Function
- Open MS Outlook.
- Click on the File menu.
- Choose 'Options' and then 'Advanced'
- Click on the 'Auto Archive' button.
- Decide how often you want Auto Archive to run.
- Provide a destination path to save a new PST file and click the 'OK' button
With the help of these methods, you can convert OST files into PST format for free. However, they can be a bit complex. For a simpler and safer way to convert OST to PST, consider using a tool like the SysCurve OST to PST Converter.
Drawbacks of Manual Methods to Convert OST to PST
While manual methods to convert OST files to PST can be free, they also come with their own set of challenges:
- They can risk data loss.
- They can be time-consuming.
- They can be difficult to execute.
- They can't repair a corrupted OST file.
Method 3: Convert OST to PST using an OST to PST Converter
For a more reliable and less complex solution, you might want to consider the SysCurve OST to PST Converter tool. This software not only helps convert OST to PST but can also repair corrupted OST files. It provides multiple export options, allowing you to convert OST to formats such as MSG, EML, MBOX, RTF, HTML, and more. It even enables you to migrate OST to Office 365.
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use this software:
- Download and install the OST to PST Converter tool.
- Launch the software and click on 'Add file'.
- Select the OST files and click 'OK' to start the loading process.
- After the process completes, you'll see a preview of your files.
- Click on the 'Export' option, select the folders you wish to convert.
- Choose 'PST' as an export option and decide where to save the new PST files.
- Click 'Next' to start converting OST to PST.
Once the process finishes, you'll be able to open the converted PST files with any version of MS Outlook, including MS Outlook 2019.
Other helpful features
This software not only helps convert OST to PST but also boasts several other features:
- Convert OST to various file formats such as MBOX, EML, MSG, HTML, and RTF.
- Preview OST file data.
- Choose which data to convert based on To, Cc, Bcc, From, Date, etc.
- Save individual emails in various formats.
- Migrate OST to Office 365 and Live Exchange.
- Convert OST to PST for free for the first 20 items per folder.
- Support all versions of MS Outlook.
- Compatible with Windows OS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this tool to repair an OST file?
Yes. The advanced algorithm of this OST to PST converter tool quickly scans the OST file, repairs it, and allows you to convert OST file data to various formats.
Does this tool require MS Outlook to convert OST to PST?
No. This tool works as a standalone application, meaning it doesn't require MS Outlook or any other software to convert OST files to PST.
Which is the best OST to PST converter?
SysCurve OST to PST Converter Tool is the best software that enables you to quickly convert OST to various formats like PST, MBOX, EML, MSG, HTML, etc.
Can I convert OST to PST online?
There are various websites allowing users to convert OST to PST online, they require a stable internet connection and often don't provide data security. Many experts recommend using software like SysCurve OST converter instead.
Is there any free open-source tool to convert OST to PST?
No open-source tool is available, but many OST to PST software offers free demo versions. Among them, is the SysCurve OST Converter. It quickly repairs OST files and converts OST to other file formats.
Can I convert OST to PST in Outlook 2016 using OST to PST software?
Yes. With the SysCurve OST to PST Converter tool, you can convert OST files to PST in any version of Outlook, including 2016 and 2019.
Can I transfer OST to Office 365 using this tool?
Yes, you can. This tool allows you to import OST files to the Office 365 cloud platform and even migrate them to Live Exchange Server. However, these features are only available in the business and enterprise versions of the tool.
Does this tool offer a free trial?
Indeed, it does. The SysCurve OST to PST Converter provides a free trial. With the help of the demo version, you can repair OST files, preview their data, and convert and export the first 20 items from each folder.
The Final Word
In conclusion, the process of converting OST to PST can seem quite daunting, especially if you're new to it. Manual methods do exist, but they're time-consuming, complicated, and risk data loss. That's why we recommend using a dedicated tool like SysCurve OST to PST Converter.
Not only does it simplify the process, making it straightforward even for less tech-savvy users, but it also ensures your data's safety and provides multiple options for export. Furthermore, it allows you to view and convert the first 20 items from each folder for free, which means you can try it out to see how it works.
So, if you're in a situation where you need to convert OST to PST, give the SysCurve OST to PST Converter a try. It's designed to make your life easier and your data conversion process smoother.