There are several precautions we advise before you start importing an OST file into Outlook, Such as,
Backup: Take a backup of the original file before performing any actions on it. To ensure you have the file intact.
Use the copy of the OST file: Avoid directly modifying or tampering with the original OST file.
Check for Permissions: Make sure you have the necessary permissions to access the OST file.
Encryption keys: Ensure you have the correct encryption keys or password for encrypted or password-protected OST files.
Avoid Overwriting: Do not overwrite any existing data in the destination profile. Always choose the option to import the data into a new folder or merge it carefully, depending on your needs.
Methods to Import OST into Outlook
Follow the step-by-step process to import an OST file into Outlook:
Method 1: Convert OST to PST File and Import into Outlook.
Step 1: Converting the OST to PST File
- Open Outlook, click on File and select Open & Export.
- Click on Import/Export.
- Click on Export to a File and click Next.
- Select Outlook Data File (*.pst) and click Next.
- Select the folders you want to convert, select the location to save the converted PST File, and click on Finish.
Step 2: Importing the converted PST File
Now import the PST file into Outlook profile using the Import/export wizard:
ALSO: If the OST File is inaccessible, consider using a third-party OST to PST converter tool to convert it into a PST File.
- Open Import/Export wizard
- Click on Import from another program or file and click Next.
- Choose Outlook Data File (.pst) and then click on Next.
- Browse for the PST file and choose replace duplicates with items imported and click on Next
- Select all the mail items and account, then click on Finish
Method 2: Outlook’s Archive Feature
- Open Outlook, click on the File, and click on Options.
- Select the Advanced option, then click on Auto Archive Settings.
- Set the auto archive settings as per your requirement. Set the day count to run auto archive and set a count to clear old mails.
- Once done, click OK, and Outlook will automatically create an OST email archive in PST form.
Now you can import the PST file into Microsoft 365 or Outlook using the Import/Export wizard (Follow the above-mentioned steps)
Method 3: Using Outlook Transfer Tool
If you have multiple OST files or large .ost files, there is a risk of data loss during the import process.
To simplify this, you can use an Outlook Transfer tool to complete the import and export outlook data files in just a few clicks for Office 365/Exchange Server accounts.
We recommend using Rikvr Transfer for Outlook to import OST files to Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010, and other versions of Outlook.
Backup the OST File:
- Close Outlook and related applications.
- Open Rikvr Transfer For Outlook and click on Transfer Outlook and then Backup.
- Select Advanced Backup and create a backup of the OST file.
Import the OST File:
- Select the Transfer option, select the recently generated backup file and click Next.
- Select the OST file and click Next
- Choose all the PST files or select your choice.
- Click on Finish to import the OST file into Outlook
Conclusion
We hope this article helped you import the OST file into Outlook. Ensure you choose the method that works best for you and follow the necessary precautions before starting the import process. If you’re dealing with critical emails or important information, be sure to back up the PST file and store it in a secure location.
Frequently Asked Questions
As OST files are tied to the specific account that created them and are meant for offline access, they cannot be directly imported into Outlook.
Simply add an Exchange, IMAP, or Office 365 account, and Outlook will automatically create an OST file for offline access. The OST file is linked to your account and synced with the mail server.
Outlook might not load an OST file if the OST is corrupted, or a mismatch between the OST file and the associated account, or problems with the Outlook profile.
