How to Import OST Files to Outlook: A Comprehensive Guide

Microsoft Outlook is a powerful email client that is widely used by individuals and organizations for managing emails, contacts, calendars, and more. One of its key features is the ability to work offline by storing data in Offline Storage Table (OST) files. However, there are times when you need to import OST files to Outlook, such as when switching to a new computer or recovering data from a damaged profile. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of importing OST files into Outlook step by step.

Step 1: Locate Your OST File

Before you can import an OST file into Outlook, you need to locate it on your computer. By default, OST files are stored in specific folders based on your Windows version:

• Windows 7 and Windows 8: C:\Users<Your Username>\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Outlook
• Windows 10: C:\Users<Your Username>\Documents\Outlook Files

Step 2: Convert OST to PST

Outlook does not offer a direct option to import OST files. To make them compatible, you must first convert the OST file to PST (Personal Storage Table) format. To do this, you’ll need a third-party OST to PST converter. Here’s how to convert:

1. Download and install a reputable OST to PST conversion tool.
2. Launch the conversion tool and select the OST file you want to convert.
3. Choose the destination folder where you want to save the resulting PST file.
4. Start the conversion process. The tool will extract data from the OST file and create a PST file with the same information.

Step 3: Import PST File into Outlook

Now that you have a PST file, you can import it into Outlook:

1. Open Microsoft Outlook on your computer.
2. Click on “File” in the Outlook ribbon.
3. Select “Open & Export,” then choose “Import/Export.”
4. In the Import and Export Wizard dialog box, select “Import from another program or file” and click “Next.”
5. Choose “Outlook Data File (.pst)” as the file type to import from and click “Next.”
6. Click the “Browse” button to locate and select the PST file that you converted from the OST file.
7. Choose your preferences for handling duplicates, such as replacing, allowing, or not importing duplicates. Click “Next.”
8. Select the destination folder where you want to import the PST file. You can import it into an existing folder or create a new one. Click “Next.”
9. If you want to include subfolders in the import, check the “Include subfolders” box.
10. Choose the option for importing items: either import them into the current folder or specify a different folder. Make your selection and click “Finish.”
11. Depending on the size of the PST file and the amount of data to be imported, the process may take some time. Be patient while Outlook completes the import.
12. Once the import is finished, you will receive a notification indicating that the import was successful.

Conclusion

Importing OST files to Outlook is a crucial process when you need to access your mailbox data or recover information from a damaged profile. By following this comprehensive guide, you can successfully import OST files into Outlook, ensuring that your emails, contacts, calendars, and other data are readily available within the Outlook application. This process allows for a seamless transition and efficient email management within the Outlook environment.