Yes, you can migrate an Outlook OST file to PST format, but the method depends on the situation.
Scenario 1: The MAPI Account Is Still Active
If the MAPI (Messaging Application Programming Interface) account is still active and you’re simply moving Outlook from one system to another, you can log in to Outlook on the new system using the same account. Outlook will automatically create a new OST file, and no manual conversion is needed.
Alternatively, if you want to back up or migrate your data, you can use the
Import & Export Wizard in Outlook:
- Open Outlook.
- Go to File > Open & Export > Import/Export.
- Select Export to a file > Outlook Data File (.pst).
- Choose the top-level folder (usually your email account).
- Click Next, then Browse to select a destination for the new PST file.
- Click Finish to export.
Scenario 2: The OST File Is Orphaned
If the OST file is orphaned (i.e., the original account is no longer accessible), Outlook won’t open it directly. In this case, using a third-party OST to PST converter is the most effective solution.
There are many OST to PST converters available online, but not all are reliable. If you're looking for a trustworthy tool, consider using
GoldyTools Converter for OST. It’s often ranked at the top of Google search results for OST to PST conversion and is recommended by many IT professionals and MVPs on platforms like Spiceworks, Experts Exchange, and TechNet.
You can also try other converters—most offer free trials—so you can test their functionality before committing to a purchase.
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