How to Convert OST to PST?

The e-mails in Outlook are stored in two different formats, OST and PST. If the user works in an offline mode, MS Outlook holds the e-mails in OST format, but it becomes difficult for the user to switch the format to PST mode without any third-party application. Here, in this article, we have discussed professional and manual methods to transform OST files into PST files. Once these files are converted, the user can quickly transfer these files into MS Outlook.

Why the user need to do the conversion?

There are various reasons why the users need to Convert OST to PST file

  • Sudden attack by virus or malware

  • When suddenly, OST files become inaccessible due to exchange server crash.

  • When the user wishes to access the mailbox data, which is either deleted or disabled by the exchange server.

  • When the user wishes to transfer OST data into a separate machine with a POP3 account.

An Overview on OST and PST files

Before we jump-start with the discussion about how to convert the files, let’s have a look at what are OST and PST files.

Outlook OST

OST files are made in Outlook when it is configured to the IMAP or Exchange server. Without a stable connection to the server the user can’t access the file in offline mode. These files serve as a valuable tool in case the internet connection is unstable.

Outlook PST

These files are made in Outlook when it is aligned with a POP account. The file is used to create back-up and transfer Outlook data from computer to another.

How to Convert OST to PST Free?

Convert OST to PST Manually

The manual process of conversion includes the below-mentioned steps.

  • Launch Outlook, visit to the File Tab and now press on the Open and Export tab and then press on the Import/Export Tab.

  • The Import and Export wizard will be seen, choose the Export a file option

  • Select the Outlook Data File (.pst) option and press the next tab

  • Now, choose the folders you want to convert and click on the next tab to continue.

  • Choose the location where you want to save the file and press do not duplicate export items.

All the mailbox items will be transferred to PST files, you can then transfer these files into MS Outlook.

Drawbacks of the manual method

Converting OST files to PST files is a long process and the manual method is not feasible for it. However, people are more inclined towards it as it is available free of cost, but this process is challenging.

  • It takes a Long of time.

  • This method will not work if OST files are orphaned.

  • It is subject to human errors.

  • There is no way to check preview of mails during the conversion.

  • Some times manual method doesn’t do complete conversion of files.

Best Method to Convert OST to PST Free

Therefore, eSoftTools have launched OST to PST Converter. The software converts offline OST files to PST files without damaging the data of the file.

Benefits of using this professional software

  • The user can see a live preview of e-mails before the conversion process.

  • The user can convert large OST files in a single click.

  • Makes the rapid conversion of OST file PST, Zimbra, MBOX and various other file formats.

  • The user can Export OST to Office 365, Gmail, and YahooMail.

  • The user can select the e-mails before the conversion using the filter option.

  • The conversion method can be used for many files at once.

Steps on How to utilize this software to convert OST to PST:-

  • Click on "Select OST" button and then on the opened window click on "Select file" to get the OST file from its location and after that simply click on "Start Scanning Process" button.

  • The software will scan the files and folders that you plan to transfer into PST.

  • Press on the Save OST tab.

  • Select the Export to PST option and choose the location to save the PST file and simply click on Convert button.

  • Once the process is complete, you will receive a notification message that transfer the process is complete.

Working video:-

Know more about this software:- Free Unlimited OST to PST Converter