How to Open OST File in Outlook 2016, 2019, 2021, 2024?
Christopher Plummer | March 2nd, 2025 | Data Conversion, Outlook
Summary: In this guide, we will explore different methods to open OST file in Outlook 2016 2019, 2021, 2024 etc. It includes manual solutions and an automated tool for a hassle-free experience. So, if you also struggling to access OST file in Outlook, this blog will provide you with the right guidance. So, read this blog and solve your Issue now.
Outlook stores mailbox data in two formats: OST (Offline Storage Table) and PST (Personal Storage Table). The OST file allows users to access emails, contacts, and other data even when they are offline. However, OST files are tied to a specific Outlook profile, which makes them difficult to open in a different Outlook installation.
Can I Open an OST File in Outlook 2016?
Yes, you can open OST file in Outlook 2016 or any other version, but there are limitations. OST files are linked to a specific email account, meaning you cannot open them directly in another Outlook profile. To understand this issue better, check out the common problems that may arise when opening an OST file in Outlook.
Challenges When Importing OST Files to Outlook 2016/2019
Before going into the solutions, let’s discuss some of the major challenges that users face while importing OST file in Outlook.
- Data Integrity Issues: There’s a risk of losing or corrupting data during the import process if not done correctly.
- Compatibility Problems: OST files might not be easily compatible with Outlook without proper configuration.
- Technical Complexity: The process can be technically challenging for users who are not familiar with file conversions.
- File Access Restrictions: OST file can only be accessed with its specific Outlook profile. It’s making it harder to import directly into another Outlook setup.
Understanding these challenges is important before you proceed with the methods to import OST files into Outlook.
How to Open OST Files in Outlook 2016 Free?
If the original account that created the OST file is still active, you can do it manually. Follow the below steps to access OST file data in Outlook;
- Launch Microsoft Outlook.
- Go to File > Account Settings > Account Settings.
- Click New and add the original account credentials.
- Outlook will sync the mailbox, allowing you to access the OST data.
Note: This method works only if the original account is functional and accessible.
How to Import OST File in Outlook 2016, 2019, and 2021?
Check out Advik OST File Converter software for Windows. The software is the best tool to open OST file in Outlook. You can access OST file and copy it in Outlook just by converting this file into .pst file format. MS Outlook imports data in PST file type. Hence, you have to convert OST to PST file using this advanced software. With this software, you can add multiple .ost files into Outlook in a single attempt.
Now, download the software and try it for free.
Note: You can add OST files in Outlook 2016, 2019, 2021, and 2014 with this software.
Steps to Open OST File in Outlook Profile
1. Launch software on your Windows PC.
2. Click Select File and add OST file into software.
3. Browse and add Outlook OST file from your system.
4. Select mailbox folders of OST file.
5. Choose PST as saving option from software.
6. Select a target location to save resultant file.
7. Finally, Click on the “Next” button.
8. Once the software successfully converts .ost file into PST then open Outlook.
9. Select Import/Export Wizard option and click Import from another program file.
10. Next, select “Outlook Data File(.PST)” from the drop-down menu.
11. Click Browse and add .pst file that the software just converted.
Click the Finish button. This is how you can open OST file in Outlook safely. By following the above solution, no data loss will take place. You can view entire emails from OST file in Outlook with attachments.
Watch How to Add OST File in Outlook 2016/2019
Remarkable Features of the Software
- Import OST files into Outlook 2016 with all attachments.
- Open OST files without Outlook by converting them to 20+ formats.
- Recover corrupted OST files using the “Use Recovery Mode” option.
- Supports all OST types: encrypted, password-protected, and large files.
- Convert OST to PST, MBOX, EML, and other formats easily.
- Maintain folder structure and email properties during conversion.
- Extract emails, contacts, and calendars from OST files.
- Split large OST files into smaller, more manageable parts.
- Batch process multiple OST files at once to save time.
- Import OST data into Outlook 2019, 2016, 2013, and 2007.
Final Thoughts
In this article, we discussed the easiest and flawless solution to open OST File in Outlook 2016/2019. The good thing about the application is that you can read OST file emails in MS Outlook with attachments. The user interface of the application is very easy and even any non-technical person can perform the conversion without facing any issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How do I view an OST file in Outlook 2016?
Ans. You can view an OST file in Outlook 2016 only if the original email account is still connected. If not, you need to convert the OST file to PST format using a third-party tool and then open it in Outlook.
Q2. Why is Outlook unable to open an OST file?
Ans. Outlook may fail to open an OST file due to corruption, sync issues, or if the associated email account is no longer active. In such cases, recreating the OST file or converting it to PST format can help.
Q3. How to read a .OST file without Outlook?
Ans. To read an OST file without Outlook, you can use Advik Software. These tools allow you to open and access emails, attachments, and other mailbox items without using Outlook.
