OST (Outlook Offline Storage Table) and PST (Personal Storage Table) are two commonly used file formats in Microsoft Outlook. While PST files store data locally, OST files are used for offline access to mailbox data. However, there are situations where you might need to convert an OST file to a PST file in Windows. In this article, we will guide you through the process to convert OST to PST without Outlook, whether it's due to data recovery needs, switching email clients, or other reasons.

Instant Solution: You can try SysConverter for OST and convert its data into PST formats. Using this tool, you can also import OST to Office 365, Gmail, Yahoo and many other webmail accounts. You can also use teh demo version of the software and perform teh conversion. 

Why Convert OST to PST?

  1. Data Migration: You may want to switch to a different email client, and many email clients do not support OST files. In such cases, converting to PST is necessary to retain your data.

  2. Data Recovery: OST files can become corrupt, making it difficult to access your mailbox data. Converting to PST can help recover your emails, contacts, and more.

  3. Backup: Creating a PST file from your OST ensures that you have a backup of your mailbox data in case of unexpected data loss.

Method 1: Using Microsoft Outlook

One of the easiest ways to convert OST to PST is by using Microsoft Outlook itself:

  1. Open Outlook: Launch Microsoft Outlook on your Windows computer.

  2. Create a New PST File: Go to "File" > "Open & Export" > "Import/Export."

  3. Choose Export to a File: Select "Export to a file" and click "Next."

  4. Select Outlook Data File (.pst): Choose "Outlook Data File (.pst)" and click "Next."

  5. Select the OST File: Browse and select the OST file you want to convert.

  6. Choose the Destination: Select the location where you want to save the PST file.

  7. Set Options: You can choose to include subfolders and set other options according to your preference.

  8. Finish: Click "Finish" to start the conversion process. Outlook will create a PST file with the contents of your OST file.

Method 2: Using OST to PST Converter Software

There are several third-party OST converter tools available that make the conversion process more convenient. Some popular options include Stellar Converter for OST, Kernel for OST to PST, and SysTools OST to PST Converter. Here's how to use a third-party tool:

  1. Download and Install: Download and install the OST to PST converter software of your choice.

  2. Launch the Software: Open the software and select the OST file you want to convert.

  3. Choose Output Format: Select PST as the output format.

  4. Start the Conversion: Click the "Convert" or "Start" button to initiate the conversion process. The software will create a PST file containing the data from the OST file.

  5. Save the PST File: Once the conversion is complete, save the PST file to your preferred location.

Method 3: Manual Conversion via Import/Export

If you prefer a manual approach, you can also convert OST to PST using the built-in Import/Export feature in Outlook:

  1. Open Outlook: Launch Microsoft Outlook on your Windows computer.

  2. Go to File: Click on "File" and select "Open & Export" > "Import/Export."

  3. Choose Export to a File: Select "Export to a file" and click "Next."

  4. Select Outlook Data File (.pst): Choose "Outlook Data File (.pst)" and click "Next."

  5. Select Folders: Select the folders from your OST file that you want to export to the PST file.

  6. Choose Destination: Specify the location where you want to save the PST file.

  7. Finish: Click "Finish" to start the conversion process.

Conclusion

Converting OST to PST in Windows is a valuable skill, especially when you need to migrate your mailbox data, recover lost data, or create a backup. Whether you use Microsoft Outlook's built-in feature or opt for third-party OST to PST converter software, these methods provide you with the flexibility to manage your mailbox data effectively. Always ensure that you have a backup of your data before attempting any conversion to avoid accidental data loss.