OST (Offline Storage Table) files are essential for Outlook users who work offline and synchronize with an Exchange Server. However, OST files can become inaccessible due to issues like server crashes, mailbox deletions, or corruption. When this happens, converting the OST file to a PST (Personal Storage Table) format is often necessary for data restoration and accessibility.

In this guide, we will explore the most effective methods to convert OST to PST, helping you restore and manage your mailbox data.

Why Convert OST to PST?

Before diving into the conversion methods, it's important to understand why converting OST to PST might be necessary:

  1. Corruption of OST Files: Corruption due to virus attacks, power failures, or abrupt system shutdowns can make OST files unreadable.
  2. Server Downtime or Crash: When the Exchange Server is down or crashes, OST files may not synchronize properly, leading to data inaccessibility.
  3. Mailbox Deletion: If a mailbox is deleted or removed from the server, converting the OST file to PST enables you to retrieve the data.
  4. Migration to New Outlook Version or System: During migration or system upgrades, converting OST files to PST ensures smooth data transfer and access.
  5. Creating Backups: PST files are ideal for backup and archiving purposes since they can be easily imported into any version of Outlook.

Method 1: Manual Conversion Using Outlook

Microsoft Outlook offers a built-in method to export data from OST to PST format. This method works if your OST file is connected to an active Outlook profile.

Steps for Manual OST to PST Conversion:

  1. Open Outlook on your system.
  2. Navigate to the File menu and select Open & Export.
  3. Click on Import/Export.
  4. Choose the option Export to a file and click Next.
  5. Select Outlook Data File (.pst) as the export format.
  6. Choose the specific folders you want to export or select the entire mailbox.
  7. Specify the location where you want to save the PST file.
  8. Click Finish to start the export process.

This method is simple, but it works only if the OST file is connected to a valid Outlook profile and is not corrupted.

Method 2: Using an OST to PST Converter Software

For orphaned, corrupted, or inaccessible OST files, the best solution is to use an ATS OST to PST Converter software. These tools offer powerful features that ensure successful data recovery and conversion, even from damaged files.

Benefits of OST to PST Converter Software:

  • Recover Corrupted Files: Converts damaged or corrupted OST files into PST, restoring all emails, attachments, contacts, calendars, and tasks.
  • Batch Conversion: Converts multiple OST files to PST simultaneously, saving time and effort.
  • Multiple Export Formats: In addition to PST, you can export OST files to formats like EML, MSG, MBOX, and PDF.
  • Selective Conversion: Allows you to preview and select specific emails or folders to convert, rather than exporting the entire file.
  • Supports All Outlook Versions: Most converter tools are compatible with all versions of Microsoft Outlook, ensuring a seamless recovery.

Steps for Using OST to PST Converter:

  1. Download and install the OST to PST Converter on your system.
  2. Load the OST file by browsing to its location on your computer.
  3. Preview the contents of the OST file and select the specific folders or emails you want to convert.
  4. Choose PST as the output format.
  5. Start the conversion process and save the PST file to your desired location.

Converter tools are highly effective for recovering data from corrupted OST files and providing multiple output options.

Method 3: Using Inbuilt Microsoft Tools (ScanPST)

Microsoft offers a built-in repair tool known as ScanPST (Inbox Repair Tool), which can help repair minor OST file corruption and enable the export to PST.

Steps to Use ScanPST:

  1. Locate ScanPST: The tool is usually found in the Outlook installation folder.
  2. Run the tool and browse for the OST file you want to repair.
  3. Click Start to initiate the scan.
  4. If the tool finds errors, it will prompt you to repair the file.
  5. After the repair is complete, open the repaired OST file in Outlook and export it to PST using the manual method mentioned earlier.

Limitations: ScanPST is useful for minor corruption but may not work for severely damaged files or orphaned OSTs. For more advanced repair, you'll need a dedicated OST to PST converter.

Method 4: Use Professional Data Recovery Services

In extreme cases where the OST file is severely damaged or if the software-based methods fail, professional data recovery (ATS OST Recovery) services might be the best option. These services specialize in recovering data from highly corrupted files or scenarios where DIY methods aren't enough.

Considerations:

  • Cost: Professional services can be expensive, especially for personal users.
  • Security: Always choose a reputable service that ensures data privacy and protection.

Best Practices to Avoid OST File Corruption

To reduce the need for future OST to PST conversions, consider these best practices:

  1. Regular Backups: Always maintain regular backups of your mailbox by exporting to PST regularly.
  2. Keep Outlook and System Updated: Regular updates help prevent issues caused by outdated software.
  3. Avoid Abrupt Shutdowns: Always close Outlook properly and shut down your system correctly to prevent file corruption.
  4. Use Antivirus Software: Protect your system from malware and viruses that can corrupt OST files.

Conclusion

Whether you're dealing with inaccessible OST files due to corruption or migration, learning how to convert OST to PST is essential for data restoration. The manual method through Outlook works well for connected profiles, while ATS OST to PST converter software is ideal for orphaned or corrupted files. In more extreme cases, professional recovery services may be needed to retrieve valuable data.

By following these effective methods, you can ensure your mailbox data is always accessible and secure, no matter the situation.

Ready to recover your data? Use our Advanced OST to PST Converter for a seamless and efficient solution to all your OST to PST conversion needs.