How to Backup OST File – The Ultimate Guide

Summary: OST (Offline Storage Table) is a file format used by Microsoft Outlook for Windows to keep a replica of mailbox data. This situation occurs when Outlook is corrupted or you want to move to another email program. when users wish to migrate to another email program. As a precautionary measure against potential data loss, users often back up their OST files. However, many users encounter issues during the backup process of these OST files.

To do this process, we will offer the topmost procedures to backup OST data including manual and OST to PST Converter. Among them, the OST Converter is the best choice for quick and effective outcomes. 

Additionally, we will discuss the different reasons or requirements to take a backup of OST emails. 

Different Scenarios to Backup Outlook OST File

In this section, we will thoroughly discuss several situations that necessitate backing up OST data.

• As the OST file is prone to corruption, backing up Outlook mailbox items is necessary. 
• Using the OST file, you will be able to work offline. This will help you preserve the data if something happens to your Outlook profile. 
• When you switch from Outlook to a different email client, a backup is required to effectively move OST file data. 

Now, we will discuss the solution to do this process without hassle. 

Reliable Ways to Backup OST File in Outlook

Read this section to learn about different techniques and choose the best approach from them. As a result, the process will end easily and quickly. 

#1 Backup Outlook OST Data – Native Procedure

Using this approach, the process will finish for free. Here, we will provide two effective manual ways. Let’s describe them sequentially. 

Method 1. Use Export Option

1. To start, run MS Outlook > tap File > select Export to a file > Next.
2. Later, click Export to a file > Personal File Folder (.pst) or Comma Separated Values > Next.
3. Thereafter, tap Browse to select the OST file from your system. Hit Finish to back up the OST file.

Method 2. With Archive Feature

1. Open Outlook – – File – – Archive – – Cleanup Tools.
2. After this, choose the required OST files under Archive this folder and all subfolders. 
3. Later, assign the path to save the backed-up OST file data. Hit OK. 

Further, take a look at the restriction of this method. So, you can avoid them before you face heavy data loss. 

Limitations of Manual Approach

• Through this process, you will not be able to backup corrupted or orphaned OST mailbox items.
• Using this method, you might lose data as it doesn’t give you any guarantee. 
• This approach is time-consuming and insecure. 
• There is a high chance of losing data integrity.

#2 Professional Way to Outlook OST File Backup

MacSonik OST to PST Converter Tool is an excellent wizard to do the task as efficiently as possible. Through this utility, you can choose to back up OST files in bulk without any difficulty. Besides this, it has a user-friendly user interface which helps users with a lack of technical expertise to do this task. 

Furthermore, it has various notable features to simplify the process. For instance, you can preview the OST file content including email text, date, subject, and attachments before you initiate the backup. Additionally, it allows you to exclude duplicates from a bunch of OST files. Similarly, there are various other features to complete the process in minimal downtime. 

Easy Steps to Backup Outlook OST File

Now, read and follow the below section to start the process.

1. For this process, install and open the OST to PST Converter Tool on your system.
2. Later, hit Select Files or Select Folder to browse and add single or multiple OST files. Tap Open. 
3. Thereafter, select the OST file to view and tick to backup OST files. Click Next.
4. Then, select PST as the destination path from the drop-down list. 
5. After that, create the path to keep the resultant PST file on your computer. 
6. In the end, click Convert to start the backing-up process.

With the given steps, the process will end in no time without putting in extra effort. 

Also Read – Convert OST to Text Format

Conclusion 

After reading this blog, you might be able to find a reliable method to backup OST file. You can choose between manual methods and a professional OST to PST Converter Tool. While there are manual options available, they come with various restrictions that could potentially lead to data loss. Therefore, using a professional technique is the preferred choice for quick and secure results.

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