Working Guide on How to Save OST File as PST for Outlook

Microsoft Outlook is one of the most widely used email clients in the business world. It manages emails, contacts, calendars, and tasks efficiently. Outlook stores mailbox data in two primary file formats: OST (Offline Storage Table) and PST (Personal Storage Table). While OST files are useful for offline work and synchronization, there are situations where users may need to know about how to save OST file as PST for accessibility, backup, or migration purposes.

In this article, we will discuss an overview of OST and PST, the reasons why converting OST to PST is important, the manual method to save OST files as PST, its limitations, and the best alternative solution.

Overview of OST and PST Files

An OST file is created automatically when you configure an Outlook account with Exchange Server, Office 365, or IMAP. It allows users to access their emails offline and syncs with the server when an internet connection is available. However, OST files are tied to the specific Outlook profile and system where they were created.

A PST file, on the other hand, is a portable file format that stores Outlook data independently. Users can easily back up, import, and transfer PST files between different systems and Outlook profiles. PST files are widely used for archiving and migration.

Reasons to Save OST File as PST

• Data Accessibility – OST files cannot be directly opened in another Outlook profile, while PST files are portable and accessible.
• Migration Needs – To transfer emails from one system to another or from Exchange/Office 365 to standalone Outlook, OST to PST conversion is necessary.
• Backup Purpose – Converting OST files to PST ensures data backup in case of server crashes, account deletion, or corruption.
• Recover Orphaned OST Files – If an OST file becomes orphaned due to a server disconnection, converting it to PST helps in data recovery.
• Archiving Old Mailboxes – PST format is suitable for long-term storage of old or inactive mailbox data.

Manual Method to Save OST File as PST in Outlook

Outlook provides an inbuilt feature to export OST data into PST format.

Steps

• Open Microsoft Outlook with the configured OST profile.
• Go to File > Open & Export > Import/Export.
• Select Export to a File and click Next.
• Choose Outlook Data File (.pst) and click Next.
• Select the folders you want to export (enable “Include subfolders”).
• Browse the destination location and click Finish.
• Optionally, set a password for the PST file.

This process will create a PST file that can be used in any Outlook profile.

Drawbacks of the Manual Method

• Requires Outlook Access – You must have access to the Outlook profile configured with the OST file. Orphaned OST files cannot be converted manually.
• Time-Consuming – Large OST files may take hours to export as PST.
• No Bulk Conversion – You cannot convert multiple OST files at once.
• Risk of Data Loss – Incorrect steps or interruption during the process may lead to missing emails or incomplete PST files.
• Limited Options – Manual export does not provide advanced features like selective conversion or email filtering.

Alternate Solution

To overcome the limitations of the manual method, using a professional tool is the best approach. BitVare OST Converter is a reliable solution that allows you to save OST files as PST quickly and securely without Outlook dependency.

Key Features

• Converts OST files to PST with complete data integrity.
• Supports conversion of orphaned, corrupted, or inaccessible OST files.
• Maintains folder hierarchy, metadata, and attachments.
• Offers selective migration using filters (date range, subject, from, to, etc.).
• Allows bulk OST to PST conversion in one process.
• User-friendly interface for both technical and non-technical users.
• Compatible with all versions of Outlook and Windows/Mac operating systems.

Conclusion

Saving OST files as PST is often necessary for data accessibility, backup, and migration purposes. While Outlook’s manual export feature provides a way to perform this conversion, it has several limitations, including dependency on Outlook access and lack of advanced options. For a more efficient and professional approach, the tool is the best choice. It ensures secure, fast, and complete OST to PST conversion without the risk of data loss.

If you are planning to save your OST file as PST for Outlook, avoid the hassle of manual steps and go for the reliable OST to PST for a smooth experience.