Here in this write up we will discuss OST file and its usage in different platforms. One can access the OST file in the same profile that created it, if one wants to open the OST file in another Outlook profile, then one needs to convert OST to PST file for that. Other than that, one can also use the OST file on other mailing platforms. We will discuss it in this blog.
OST File - Overview
An OST (Offline Storage Table) file is a data file used by Microsoft Outlook to facilitate offline access to mailbox data in combination with Exchange Server or Microsoft 365.
When Outlook is configured to work with Exchange Server in Cached Exchange Mode, it creates an OST file on the user's computer. The purpose of the OST file is to store a local copy of mailbox data, including emails, calendar events, contacts, tasks, and other items, allowing users to access and work with their mailbox data even when they are not connected to the Exchange Server.
The OST file maintains a synchronized copy of the user's mailbox on the Exchange Server. When Outlook is connected to the server, any changes made to the mailbox data are synchronized between the server and the OST file, ensuring that the data is up to date. Similarly, when working offline, any changes made to the mailbox data in the OST file will be synchronized with the server once the connection is restored.
The OST file acts as a cache for the mailbox data, improving performance and enabling users to access their emails and other items quickly without relying on a continuous internet connection. It allows users to work with their mailbox data, make changes, compose new messages, and manage their schedules offline. Once a connection is established, the changes are synchronized with the server and other devices.
It's important to note that OST files are specific to the Outlook application and its integration with Exchange Server or Microsoft 365. They are not meant to be manually opened or manipulated outside of Outlook and are primarily used for offline access and synchronization of mailbox data.
How to Open OST Emails in Another Outlook?
To open OST emails in another Outlook installation, you can follow these steps:
1. Export OST to PST using Outlook: If you have access to the original Outlook profile and the OST file, you can use the export feature in Outlook to convert the OST file to PST format. Here's how:
Note: if you are trying to open an orphan OST file in another Outlook, then you need an OST Converter tool for that. There are various tools available you can use them as per your choice.
a. Open Outlook on the computer with the OST file.
b. Go to the "File" tab and select "Open & Export" > "Import/Export."
c. In the Import and Export Wizard, select "Export to a file" and click "Next."
d. Choose "Outlook Data File (.pst)" as the file type and click "Next."
e. Select the folder(s) you want to export (e.g., Inbox, Sent Items, etc.), choose a location to save the PST file, and click "Finish."
f. Enter a password if you want to protect the PST file, or leave it blank for no password protection.
Transfer the PST File to Another Computer: Copy the generated PST file to the computer where you want to open the OST emails. You can use methods like USB drives, network transfer, cloud storage, or email attachments to move the PST file.
2. Import the PST File into Another Outlook Installation: Once the PST file is on the other computer, you can import it into Outlook to access the OST emails. Here's how:
a. Open Outlook on the other computer.
b. Go to the "File" tab and select "Open & Export" > "Import/Export."
c. In the Import and Export Wizard, choose "Import from another program or file" and click "Next."
d. Select "Outlook Data File (.pst)" and click "Next."
e. Browse to the location of the transferred PST file, select it, and choose the import options you prefer. Click "Finish."
f. The OST emails and other data will be imported into the Outlook installation on the new computer.
Note: When importing the PST file, you may have options to select folders, specify duplicate handling, or set the import location. Adjust these settings according to your preferences.
By following these steps, you can effectively open OST emails in another Outlook installation by converting the OST file to PST format and importing it into the desired Outlook application.
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