09-08-2025, 09:11 AM
Converting an Outlook Offline Storage Table (OST) file to a portable PST format is essential for accessing mail data from orphaned accounts, migrating information, or recovering items from a corrupt file. While manual methods exist, they often come with limitations.
For users with an active Outlook profile connected to the original server, the built-in "Import/Export" wizard or "Archive" function can export mailbox data to a new PST file. Another manual approach is to create a new, blank PST file in Outlook and then drag and drop folders from the OST file into it. However, these free methods will fail if the OST file is damaged, inaccessible, or disconnected from its original server account.
For a more reliable and straightforward solution, dedicated OST to PST converter software is the recommended approach. These tools are designed to handle any OST file, regardless of its condition—including corrupt, encrypted, or orphaned files—without needing Outlook to be installed. They ensure a complete and secure conversion of all mailbox items, such as emails, calendars, contacts, and attachments, while perfectly preserving the original folder hierarchy and data integrity.
For users with an active Outlook profile connected to the original server, the built-in "Import/Export" wizard or "Archive" function can export mailbox data to a new PST file. Another manual approach is to create a new, blank PST file in Outlook and then drag and drop folders from the OST file into it. However, these free methods will fail if the OST file is damaged, inaccessible, or disconnected from its original server account.
For a more reliable and straightforward solution, dedicated OST to PST converter software is the recommended approach. These tools are designed to handle any OST file, regardless of its condition—including corrupt, encrypted, or orphaned files—without needing Outlook to be installed. They ensure a complete and secure conversion of all mailbox items, such as emails, calendars, contacts, and attachments, while perfectly preserving the original folder hierarchy and data integrity.
