If you're using Outlook, you may find it necessary to convert your OST file to PST format. OST files store Outlook data items on the Exchange server, which can be vulnerable to data loss in the event of a server crash. Additionally, OST files become inaccessible during Exchange server maintenance, requiring users to wait until the process is finished. Therefore, it is advisable to convert OST files to PST format to ensure a seamless and trouble-free user experience.

This conversion empowers users to continue using Outlook even in the event of an Exchange server crash since the PST file operates independently of the server, storing Outlook data items locally. Furthermore, this approach proves advantageous when attempting to recover deleted mailboxes from the Exchange server.

You have the option to perform the OST2PST conversion either manually or by utilizing third-party tools. Manual conversion is feasible only when the Exchange Server is accessible, requiring the original Exchange profile in Outlook. However, when Exchange is unavailable, users must depend on third-party tools exclusively for OST2PST conversion.

In this article, we will explore both methods of OST conversion. We will begin with a detailed explanation of the manual method and subsequently transition to the automated solution.

Manual Method of OST2PST conversion

The manual approach to OST conversion can be executed through MS Outlook. However, it's important to note that this method is only applicable when the Exchange server is operational. Below, we have outlined the necessary steps to perform the OST2PST conversion:

  1. In MS Outlook, click on File > Open & Export > Import/Export. Click Import/Export option
  2. In the Import and Export wizard, choose Export to a file and then click Next. Choose Export to a file
  3. Next, select Outlook Data File(.pst) and click Next. Select Outlook Data File(.pst)
  4. After that, browse the location where you want to save the exported file. Also, choose the required option and click Next. Browse the location where you want to save
  5. Now choose the required saving options and click Finish. Choose the required saving options

Note: In this step, you also have the option to select specific folders, including subfolders, apply filters, and configure a profile for data storage.

The manual method is considered the easiest and most commonly used approach for converting OST to PST. It's worth noting that this method is only applicable when the Exchange Server is connected, and Outlook is configured with an Exchange account.

Efficient method for OST2PST Conversion

The manual method for OST conversion comes with several limitations. In cases where the Exchange server experiences a crash for any reason, this method cannot be employed for mailbox restoration. To address this issue, an advanced OST2PST tool like Kernel for OST to PST Converter can be utilized to convert corrupted or orphaned OST files. This tool does not require any technical expertise<>, and it eliminates the need to connect Outlook to the Exchange Server. Below, we have outlined a step-by-step process for using this application:

  1. Open the converter tool. Click Select File to choose the ost file which you want to convert. Choose the ost file which you want to convert
  2. Click the Browse button for the OST file location (you can click on the Search button to search and locate the OST file on a hard disk or drive); then click Next. Click the Browse button
  3. Next, click on Finish after reading all the process information. click on Finish after reading all the process information
  4. Once the scanning has been completed, you can see your mailbox folder on the left pane of the window. To proceed further, choose the folders you want to save and click the Save button. See your mailbox folder on the left pane of the window
  5. Now, choose PST File (MS Outlook) and click Next. choose PST File (MS Outlook)
  6. Apply filters as required (like From, To, Subject, Folder Name, Item Type, & Date Range), and then click Next. Apply filters
  7. To split the PST file, input the file size in GB and click Next. Split the PST file
  8. After that, browse the location where you want to store the converted file and then click on Finish. Browse the location where you want to store the converted file

Note: You can exclude IPM-SUBTREE and select saving options as per your requirement.

After the conversion, the software will display a confirmation message with a link to the saved location.

Benefits of the OST2PST Conversion tool

The OST2PST conversion tool is equipped with a wide range of features that allow users to effortlessly convert their OST files while maintaining data security. This software is user-friendly, convenient, and highly reliable. The preview feature provided by the tool ensures data integrity and completeness before the final save. Kernel for OST to PST Converter is capable of converting even corrupt and damaged OST files to PST without requiring an active Exchange connection or an Outlook profile. As a result, it can be used in various scenarios, regardless of the Exchange and Outlook versions in use.

  • Ideal for converting multiple OST files to PST
  • Includes email saving options like MSG, PST, DBOX, TXT, MBOX, etc.
  • Gives a detailed preview of OST data before conversion
  • Splits PST file into multiple filesof specified size
  • Migrates OSTdata to Office 365 mailboxes or G Suite
  • Migrates OST data to GroupWise or IBM Domino Server

Wrap Up

Converting OST data to PST is often a crucial requirement for many organizations, whether for data backup or restoration to Office 365 mailboxes. Regrettably, there are limited options available for OST conversion. The manual method relies on MS Outlook and can only be utilized when the Exchange server is operational. In addition to this, a dependable approach for converting OST to PST file formats involves the use of professional tools.

Related topic
OST to PST
Kernel forOST to PST

Converts OST to PST without Exchange

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