How to Fix Corruption in OST Files and Convert OST to PST Format: A Complete Guide

[Sysvita]

To fix corruption in an Outlook Offline Storage Table (OST) file and convert it to a PST (Personal Storage Table) file, follow these steps. OST files, which store copies of Outlook mailbox data on your local device, can become corrupted due to abrupt shutdowns, software conflicts, network issues, or large file sizes. Repairing and converting an OST file to a PST format can help you regain access to your data and preserve emails, contacts, and other Outlook items. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Backup the Corrupted OST File​

Before attempting repairs, make a backup copy of the OST file. This ensures that if something goes wrong, you’ll still have an untouched version of the file. The OST file is typically stored in the following directory:

• Windows 10/11: C:\Users\Username\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Outlook\

2. Use the Microsoft Inbox Repair Tool (ScanPST.exe)​

Microsoft provides an Inbox Repair Tool (ScanPST.exe) to repair minor corruption issues in OST files. This tool can be found in your Outlook installation folder. Here’s how to use it:

1. Locate ScanPST.exe in your Outlook installation folder (usually under C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\root\OfficeXX\ where XX is your Outlook version).
2. Open the tool and select the corrupted OST file.
3. Click Start to initiate the scan. The tool will analyze the file for errors.
4. If errors are found, choose Repair to fix them. Note that this works for minor corruption; severe damage may require additional tools.

3. Re-create the OST File​

If the Inbox Repair Tool doesn’t fix the corruption, re-creating the OST file can be another solution. This involves deleting the corrupted OST file and letting Outlook generate a new one.

1. Close Outlook.
2. Navigate to the OST file location and delete the corrupted file.
3. Reopen Outlook. Outlook will automatically create a new OST file and synchronize it with the server, restoring your data.

4. Convert OST to PST for Data Recovery​

When a corrupted OST file is beyond repair or you need to back up data, converting it to PST can be helpful. However, this typically requires a third-party OST to PST converter since Outlook does not natively support this conversion. Using a trusted converter ensures data accuracy and keeps your emails and attachments intact.

• Recommended OST to PST Converters: Many converters are available, like SysVita OST to PST Converter, which offers a range of features including batch conversion, selective item recovery, and the ability to handle encrypted or severely corrupted files.
• How to Use a Converter:
  
  1. Install the OST to PST converter of your choice.
  2. Launch the software and load the corrupted OST file.
  3. Select the items you want to convert (many converters allow selective conversion).
  4. Choose PST as the output format and set the destination path for the converted file.
  5. Start the conversion. After the process, you’ll have a PST file that can be imported into Outlook.

5. Import the PST File into Outlook​

Once you have the PST file, import it into Outlook to access your data:

1. Open Outlook and go to File > Open & Export > Import/Export.
2. Choose Import from another program or file and select Outlook Data File (.pst).
3. Browse to the location of the PST file, select it, and finish the import process.

Tips for Avoiding OST Corruption in the Future​

• Regular Backups: Schedule regular backups to protect your data from unexpected corruption.
• Reduce File Size: Archive old emails to keep the OST file size manageable.
• Update Outlook Regularly: Ensure Outlook is up to date to benefit from security patches and improvements.

Following these steps can help you recover your data and convert OST files to PST format, safeguarding your Outlook information against future issues

 

[Laurawilliams]

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