We know that both OST and PST files are linked to the Outlook application. Only PST files are portable and easily moved to new computers as opposed to OST files which are related to Outlook user accounts. Do you need to convert OST to PST in Windows 10/11? In this blog, I've discussed a quick solution for converting Outlook OST files to PST files without Outlook. Before getting into the details you should understand both file formats.
Understanding OST and PST files
OST (Offline Storage Table):
Compatible with Exchange Server accounts including Outlook 365.
Syncs your mailbox data to your local machine.
Allows offline access to mailbox items even when disconnected from the internet.
Automatically synchronizes with the server upon reconnecting to ensure data consistency.
Cannot be easily moved to other computers.
Personal Storage Table (PST):
Applications include POP3, IMAP and web-based email accounts as well as data preservation across all account types.
Saves a local copy of your email data on your PC.
Does not synchronize with any servers.
Enables customizable administration and backup of email data.
Easily transferable to other computers.
Why do Outlook users convert OST to PST files?
Outlook users can convert OST to PST files for various reasons like
Accessibility During Server Downtime or Maintenance
During a scheduled or unforeseen Exchange Server outage, users cannot access their mailboxes via OST files. Converting OST to PST lets them access their emails easily.
Data backup and migration
PST files are a useful for saving important emails and other data from an OST file. These backups can be used for disaster recovery or copied to another system and used with different email clients.
Archiving old emails
Archiving old emails to PST files helps you manage storage space in the OST file and improves Outlook performance. Archived emails are accessible via the PST file.
Moving data between email accounts
PST files are more portable than OST files making it easier to move emails and other data between email accounts.
Corrupted OST file recovery
In the event of OST file corruption, converting the remaining healthy data to a PST file can help recover crucial information that would otherwise be lost.
Quick Solution to Convert OST to PST in Windows 10/11
Third-party software provides additional features for OST to PST conversion in Windows 10/11. DataVare OST to PST Converter Expert is a reliable and efficient third-party utility for Outlook OST files. In many cases manual approaches fail and third-party tools are required.
Steps for converting an OST file to PST format
Open the OST to PST Converter software on Windows.
Browse and add an OST file.
Select a location to save the converted PST.
Click the Convert Now button to begin the conversion process.
Conclusion
While converting OST files to PST using Outlook's built-in functions is free, there are times when a third-party program is more useful. I suggested DataVare OST to PST Converter not only for converting OST to PST files but also for repairing and recovering corrupted ones.
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