6 Free Methods to Convert OST File to PST in Windows 11/10

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mithileshtata

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Converting an OST file (Offline Storage Table) to a PST file (Personal Storage Table) can be crucial in scenarios where accessing offline Outlook data on a different system is necessary, or when Outlook or the Exchange Server is unavailable. While there are paid tools available for this conversion, there are also several free methods that can be utilized. Below are the free methods for converting an OST file to a PST file:

1. Using Microsoft Outlook (Manual Method)

Steps for Convert OST Files to PST format on Windows​

  1. Open Outlook: Launch Outlook on the system where the OST file is currently accessible.
  2. Export OST Mailbox Data to PST:
    • Navigate to File > Open & Export > Import/Export.
    • Select Export to a file, then click Next.
    • Choose Outlook Data File (.pst) and click Next.
    • Select the OST email account you wish to export. Optionally, include subfolders.
    • Choose a location to save the PST file and click Finish.
    • If required, set a password for the PST file or leave it blank.
This method only works if the OST file is accessible via Outlook. It will not function if the Exchange server is down or the account is inaccessible.

2. Using the Archiving Feature in Outlook

This method involves moving older emails from an OST file into a PST file using Outlook’s Archiving feature.

Steps for Saving OST Files into PST Format​

  1. Open Outlook: Ensure that Outlook is functioning with the OST file.
  2. Enable Auto-Archiving:
    • Go to File > Options > Advanced.
    • In the AutoArchive section, click AutoArchive Settings.
    • Set the time range for archiving older emails (e.g., 1 month, 6 months) and select the location to save the archived data.
    • Older emails will be moved to a .pst file as part of the auto-archiving process.
Archiving is a good option for transferring older emails into PST format while reducing the size of the primary mailbox. However, this method does not transfer calendars, contacts, or tasks.
3. Drag and Drop Method in Outlook

This method allows users to manually transfer emails, contacts, and calendar data from an OST file into a PST file by dragging and dropping.

Steps for Moving OST Files into PST Format​

  1. Create a New PST File:
    • In Outlook, go to File > New Items > More Items > Outlook Data File.
    • Save the newly created PST file in the desired location.
  2. Drag and Drop Emails:
    • Open both the OST file and the newly created PST file in Outlook.
    • Manually drag and drop emails, contacts, and other data from the OST folders to the PST folders.
While this method is free, it is manual and time-consuming, especially for larger mailboxes.

4. Using Outlook’s Import/Export Wizard

This method is similar to the first, but with slight variations.

Steps for Exporting OST File to Outlook PST File on Windows​

  1. Open Outlook and ensure that the OST file is connected.
  2. Navigate to File > Open & Export > Import/Export.
  3. Choose Export to a file.
  4. Select Outlook Data File (.pst) and click Next.
  5. Choose the folder you want to export from the OST file (Inbox, Calendar, Contacts, etc.).
  6. Save the exported data as a .pst file.

5. Recreating the OST File and Converting it to PST

If the OST file is inaccessible due to a missing connection with Exchange, the following steps can be attempted:

Steps for Copy OST File to PST Fromat​

  1. Recreate the OST File:
    • Delete the existing OST file.
    • Reconnect to the Exchange server (if available), and Outlook will automatically recreate the OST file.
  2. Convert to PST:
    • Once the OST file is recreated and the data is accessible in Outlook, use the manual method to export the mailbox data to a PST file.
This method only works if you can reconnect to the Exchange server.

6. Using Free Third-Party Tools

While most third-party OST to PST conversion tools are paid, some offer limited free versions or trials that allow you to convert small OST files for free. Examples include:
These trial versions generally allow you to convert a limited number of items or a specific size of OST to PST before requiring a purchase.

In case these free methods are ineffective (e.g., you are dealing with an orphaned or corrupted OST file), it may be necessary to consider professional OST to PST conversion tools.
 
If you’re looking for one of the best and easiest solutions for converting OST files to PST, look no further than Kernel for OST to PST Converter. This excellent tool enables you to convert single or multiple OST files in one go, all while preserving your data integrity.

Developed with an advanced algorithm, it efficiently restores orphaned, dismounted, corrupted, and oversized OST files. In addition to PST, the software offers a variety of export options, including MBOX, MSG, EML, PDF, HTML, and more. Recommended by experts and trusted by millions of users, Kernel for OST to PST Converter is a reliable choice for your email migration needs.
 
OST files, Outlook Offline Storage Table files, are primarily used for offline access to Outlook data. However, when users need to switch to a different email client or migrate to a new system, converting OST files to PST (Personal Storage Table) format becomes essential. Here are two methods to accomplish this:

Manual Conversion​

  1. Create a new PST file: Open Outlook and go to File > New > Add Account.
  2. Import the OST file: In the Add Account wizard, select "Import" and choose "Outlook Data File (.pst)".
  3. Locate and select the OST file: Browse to the location of your OST file and click "Open".
  4. Choose import options: Decide whether to import all items or only specific folders.
  5. Start the import: Click "Finish" to begin the conversion process.
Note: This manual method can be time-consuming, especially for large OST files. Additionally, there's a risk of data corruption or loss if the process is interrupted.

Automated Conversion with Weeom OST to PST Converter Tool​

For a more efficient and reliable solution, consider using a dedicated OST to PST converter tool like Weeom OST to PST Converter. This software offers several advantages:
  • Fast conversion: Weeom can convert large OST files quickly without compromising data integrity.
  • Selective conversion: You can choose to convert specific folders or items within the OST file.
  • Preview before conversion: The tool allows you to preview the contents of the OST file before initiating the conversion.
  • Advanced options: Weeom provides options for password protection, splitting large PST files, and handling corrupted OST files.
  • User-friendly interface: The software is designed to be easy to use, even for those without technical expertise.
By following these steps or using a reliable tool like Weeom OST to PST Converter, you can successfully convert your OST files to PST format and ensure seamless data migration.
 
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