Summary: How can I Import/Export Outlook (.ost) files to PST format without technical knowledge? Does this question ever cross your mind? If so, your question will be resolved. This article is dedicated to the best ways to convert OST to PST files without requiring any technical expertise. The site also details the automatic technique, which uses the Microsoft OST to PST Converter. Before we go any further, let us discuss some of the most prevalent reasons for this switch.
Manual Solutions for Converting OST Files to PST Format
OST can be manually exported to PST using three approaches, as follows:
- Using the Import/Export Method
- Archiving OST files to PST format
- Using the drag-and-drop feature in MS Outlook.
Method 01: The Import/Export Method
First, we’ll use Microsoft Outlook’s Import/Export capability. Follow the steps outlined below to convert OST to PST for free.
- Open MS Outlook and navigate to the File tab.
- Click Open & Export and select Import/Export.
- Select the Export to File option and then the Next button.
- Select Outlook Data File (.pst) from the drop-down list, then click Next.
- Select the folder to transfer and click Next.
- Click the Browse option to specify the PST file’s destination directory.
- Select the option to manage duplicate items.
- Finally, click the Finish button to complete the task.
Method 2: Archiving the OST files into PST format.
Now, we’ll use Outlook’s archiving feature to convert OST to PST files.
- Open MS Outlook and navigate to the File tab.
- Navigate to Options and select Advanced.
- Press the auto-archive button.
- Select your desired frequency for auto-archiving.
- Select the destination directory for the new PST file and click OK.
Method 03: Convert OST to PST using Drag and Drop
The drag-and-drop method is ideal for users who want to move certain emails or folders from an OST file. The drag-and-drop method for exporting OST to PST consists of two phases.
Step 1: Create a fresh PST file in Microsoft Outlook.
This solution requires you to first generate a fresh PST file. To continue, follow the steps outlined below.
- Launch Microsoft Outlook.
- Go to the Home tab, click on New Items, then More Items, and finally Outlook Data File.
- Choose a location to save the freshly produced PST file and name it.
- Click OK to create a PST file.
Step 2: Drag and drop OST emails.
After you’ve established a new PST file in your Outlook profile, follow the instructions below to drag and drop the OST file into it.
- In Outlook, locate the OST file and choose the folders or emails you want to convert to PST.
- Select the appropriate emails or folders for conversion. To select several emails, hit and hold the Ctrl key while clicking on each one.
- Drag selected items from the OST file to the newly created PST file in the navigation pane.
Limitations of the Manual Method to Convert OST to PST
There are some drawbacks to using Outlook’s manual OST to PST file conversion process. These include:
- Technical know-how is needed;
- Time-consuming, particularly for big datasets;
- Risk of partial conversion or data loss;
- Unsuitable for corrupted or inaccessible OST files;
- Lack of batch processing capabilities
- Limited features in comparison to third-party tools;
- Security issues with sensitive data;
- Manual handling raises the possibility of data corruption.
An Automated Process for Converting OST to PST
Try using the professional tool if you attempted to convert OST files manually but were unable to do so for whatever reason. Softaken OST to PST Converter Software is one of the greatest programs available for Import/Export Outlook (.ost) file to PST format. Outlook OST to PST conversion is simple and error-free with this tool. Anyone without technological expertise can readily use the application because of its easy UI. Additionally, users of the tool can convert OST files into MSG, PDF, PST, MBOX, and other formats. You can convert up to 50 emails per folder with its free demo edition.
Conclusion
We have looked at three free methods for converting OST files to PST files in this blog. The limits and downsides of manual approaches are numerous. It turned out to be laborious and did not export data in bulk. However, third-party technology shows up as beneficial in a number of ways. It makes converting several OST files at once easier. This program makes it possible to convert OST files without the use of Outlook and is easy to use for both beginners and experts.
