How to Import OST to Outlook Desktop Client?
Christopher Plummer | December 21st, 2024 | Data Conversion, Outlook
Summary: There are some situations where you may need to import OST to Outlook, and if you are facing this issue, this guide will help you. Here, we will discuss three effective and tested methods to transfer OST files into Outlook. So, keep reading to explore both manual and professional solutions to fix your problem.
Why Can’t You Directly Import OST to Outlook?
OST (Offline Storage Table) files are used by Outlook to store mailbox data when working offline. However, Outlook does not provide a direct option to import OST files. If you try to access OST file directly, you will encounter errors because Outlook only supports importing PST (Personal Storage Table) and MSG (Outlook Message) files.
Why Do Users Need to Transfer OST File to Outlook?
- Switching to a New Outlook Profile: If your old Outlook profile becomes inaccessible or you need to set up a new one, you might need to import OST files to Outlook to access old emails and data.
- Recovering Data from Orphaned OST Files: Sometimes, OST files become orphaned due to account deletion, Exchange server crashes, or accidental deletion of the original profile. In such cases, users need to import OST to Outlook to regain access to emails.
- Migrating from Exchange Server: Organizations often migrate from one Exchange Server to another or move to a different email environment. During such migrations, users require a way to import their OST files into Outlook.
- Backup and Archiving Purposes: Many users prefer to back up their Outlook mailbox by converting OST files into a format that Outlook can open, such as PST, to ensure long-term data storage and easy retrieval.
How to Move OST File to Outlook Mail?
If your Outlook profile is active, you can transfer OST data via an IMAP-configured email account:
- Create a new IMAP account (such as Gmail or Yahoo) and configure it in Outlook.
- Drag and drop your OST emails into the IMAP folder in Outlook.
- Allow Outlook to sync emails with the IMAP server.
- Configure the same IMAP account in another Outlook profile and sync the emails.
Drawbacks of Manual Methods
The first method requires access to the Outlook profile linked with the OST file. If the account is inaccessible, this method won’t work.
The IMAP method requires manual syncing and does not retain all Outlook elements like contacts, calendar, and attachments.
How to Import OST Files to Outlook 2019/2016/2013/2010?
To avoid the above limitations, using Advik OST Converter is recommended. It allows you to convert multiple OST files into PST format for Outlook while keeping the folder structure intact. You can also import orphaned, inaccessible, or corrupted OST files without any issues. All email properties remain unchanged, ensuring no data loss. Plus, there are no size restrictions; you can convert OST to PST file of any size.
Click on the free download button and check how it works;
Steps to Import .ost File in Outlook
Step 1. Run the software and read the instructions carefully.
Step 2. Click Select Files or Select Folder & add .ost files.
Step 3. Select those folders that you want to import into Outlook.
Step 4. Select PST as a saving option from the list.
Step 5. Choose destination path & click on the Next button.
Step 6. Now, open Outlook and click File menu >> Open & Export >> Import/Export.
Watch How to Add OST File to Outlook
Why Should You Choose Automated Software?
- No need for an active Outlook profile or Exchange Server: Unlike manual methods, this tool works independently, allowing OST file conversion without requiring Outlook installation or an active Exchange Server connection.
- Retains emails, contacts, attachments, and folder hierarchy: The software ensures that all email properties, attachments, and the original folder structure remain intact after conversion, preserving data integrity
- Recovers data from inaccessible or orphaned OST files: This tool helps retrieve emails, contacts, and other data from OST files that are damaged, corrupted, or disconnected from Exchange Server, ensuring no data loss.
- Supports bulk conversion of multiple OST files at once: You can convert multiple OST files in one go, saving time and effort instead of processing each file separately, making it ideal for large-scale migrations.
- Migration of Selected Emails: Using the Filter option, you can select the important emails and items from the OST file that you want to migrate. Filter your data by item type, date range, folder name, and other available filter fields.
- Converts password-protected OST files: Even if your OST files are encrypted or protected with a password, the software can extract and convert the data without needing the original password.
- Saves OST data in multiple formats: The tool allows you to convert OST files into various formats like PST, EML, MSG, PDF, and MBOX, making it easy to access emails on different platforms.
- Compatible with all Outlook versions: It supports OST files from all versions of Microsoft Outlook, including Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, and earlier, ensuring seamless conversion.
Conclusion
In this article, we have explained two different methods to import OST to Outlook, including manual and professional solutions. If you have access to Outlook, you can try the manual methods. However, if your OST file is orphaned or inaccessible, using an automated tool is the best and most reliable solution. Choose the method that suits your needs and successfully import your OST file into Outlook.
