3 Best Techniques to Convert OST Files to PST Format

Summary: In this article, we will describe the 3 best techniques to convert OST files to PST. Users can use either, manual methods by using Auto Archive Settings, or Import/Export Feature. On the other hand, they can use an alternative technique by using the OST to PST Converter tool to convert OST to PST file format that permits users to convert single or multiple OST files to PST format in a single attempt. But before explaining the methods let’s understand the difference between OST and PST files.

What is the Difference Between OST and PST File Format

1. If you have an internet connection, the changes in OST files will automatically be synchronized with the email server. but PST does not allow users to do so- It permits users only to manage it in MS Outlook in the presence of an internet connection.
2. OST files are supported with Microsoft Exchange Server, but PST files are also supported with other services such as Microsoft Outlook and Microsoft Exchange client 
3. In Microsoft Outlook 2016, all emails and appointments from IMAP and MAPI accounts are stored in an offline storage table (.ost), whereas the PST file is widely used for MAPI and IMAP accounts from Outlook 2013.

Best Techniques to Convert OST Files to PST Format

In the below information, we will understand the three methods which is a manual methods by using the Auto Archive Settings and Import/Export Option. Then we will discuss the automated method. 

Method 1: How to Convert OST to PST Files Using Auto Archive Settings

1. In the first step download and install MS Outlook on your system and then tap on the file tab.
2. Then, navigate to the options, and then in the Outlook Options wizard, direct your cursor towards the Advanced section.
3. After that, you have to hit on the AutoArchive Settings.
4. An AutoArchive window pop-up will be shown on your screen; allow the needed one:
5. After choosing the required option, tap on the OK button.
6. In the end, your OST file will be stored in an Outlook PST file with assigned archive settings.

Method 2: How to Convert OST Files to PST with Import/Export Option

1. Firstly, establish the MS Outlook on your local system then go to the file option.
2. Now, choose the Open & Export section and then tap on the Import and Export option.
3. Next, pick the export to a file option and then click on the Next.
4. After that, select the Outlook data file (.pst) option and then tap on Next.
5. Choose the folder where you wish to export then tap on the Next option.
6. Hit on the browse button to choose the path for the output .pst file.
7. Afterward, pick the other feature for managing duplicates and tap on the finish button. 
8. You can also set the password on your PST file if you wish.
9. In the end, tap on the OK button to finish the whole procedure.

The above manual method is the most efficient but it has some disadvantages. In the below steps, we describe some major disadvantages of using this manual method to convert OST files to PST.

Major Disadvantages to Using Manual Method

• This manual procedure is quite a lengthy process and it needs more time to complete the entire conversion process.
• The experts do not recommend this method because there are so many chances of data loss.
• This manual method does not convert corrupt or damaged OST files to Outlook PST file format.
• If the user’s OST file size is large then the conversion process will be stopped at that time. 
• It does not provide any guarantee to take backup of all mailboxes.

Method 3: How to Convert OST Files to PST Using Alternative Method

The OST to PST Converter tool is the perfect and most reliable technique to export OST to PST files and several file formats such as PDF, MSG, MBOX, EML, EMLX, etc including their attachments items for example contacts, calendars, notes, journals, tasks, etc. This expert software allows users to import their OST mailboxes to numerous types of email clients like Gmail, Yahoo Mail, Thunderbird, and so on in bulk. Moreover, it includes a smart feature to eliminate all duplicate OST emails during the entire conversion process as well and it facilitates maintaining the folder hierarchy according to their actual files in an effective and proper manner. 

Step-By-Step Instructions for Using This Alternative Tool

1. To begin download and install the OST to PST Converter tool on your PC.
2. Then hit on the “Add File” button to choose an OST file.
3. After that, tap on the “OK” button till the scanning procedure is finished.
4. Next, this tool provides the preview option to preview the OST mailboxes before converting them into PST files.
5. Now, tap on the “Save” button and choose the location folder to store the recovered OST file.
6. Afterward, you have to hit on the “OK” button to convert the OST to a PST file.
7. In the last step, your chosen OST file is successfully converted into the PST file.

Conclusion

Above article, we have discussed the top three techniques to convert OST files to PST format. In the manual methods, there is a chance of losing the data and not fulfilling your requirements. In such a case, you must go with the professional technique by using the automated tool, as this will assist you in changing OST to PST files. We hope this article successfully resolves your problems with OST to PST conversion.

Author Bio:

As a Technical expert, I love to write blogs on email migration, data recovery, and cloud migration. In my free time, I like to research new things related to OST to PST conversion and technology.