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How to Open OST file in Outlook PST without Outlook environment on Windows OS?

How to Open OST File in Outlook PST without Outlook Environment on Windows OST?


Outlook is getting popular among Windows users. OST (offline storage table) and PST (Personal storage table) are the database storage files of MS Outlook. OST file stores Microsoft Exchange mailbox items in offline mode on the local system. However, there are several instances where OST files create challenges for the users and the users won’t be able to work more with OST files. In this case, the users need to find solutions and conversion of OST files to Personal Storage Table is one smooth solution to get rid of these issues which are discussed in this write-up.


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To get rid of OST file and to convert OST to Outlook, the given below are the recommended tricks and circumstances for raising the need for conversion.

Why is offline storage table to PST format conversion required?

Before going in depth, it is necessary to know the reasons or situations that demand conversion of Exchange data to PST format.

  • OST file size issues – Due to continuous working, the size of the OST file becomes grow in size. Due to the large size, there are chances of file corruption. Hence from time to time, archiving old OST data in PST format is a good way.
  • Exchange Server Downtime – It becomes difficult for the users to access OST mailbox items in case of Exchange Server crash or Exchange Server maintenance. In this case, the PST file format will work.
  • OST inaccessibility – OST files become inaccessible due to several issues like software difficulties, hard disk issues, internet connectivity issues etc.
  • Data Moving – Data movement from one system to another system is possible only with PST file. OST file can’t be transferred from one system to another.

How to gain conversion of Offline storage table data to PST format?


There are manual as well as automated solutions available to convert OST to Outlook –

Trick 1. Exporting OST emails to PST format

Before picking this method, let us know some important things about this method. It is suitable when users have Outlook and Exchange Server. The method is less recommended since folder properties are not preserved after exporting data to PST format. Plus, the method exports single folder of OST file at a time.

  • Go to File Menu > Options > Advanced folder
  • Click on Export to a file and choose Outlook data file
  • Check for folders and subfolders as per the needs

Trick 2. Archiving OST file in Personal Storage Table

OST files are converted to Personal Storage Table using Archive feature of Outlook. Please note that the method works to save emails from OST file before utilizing this method. You can set an Auto Archive option by the following steps –

  • Go to the Tools menu
  • Choose options > Other > Auto Archive
  • Select options to apply to the folders
  • Go to File > Archive
  • Finally, click Ok

Trick 3. Drag and drop OST items to new PST


Drag and drop method sounds easy but some points a user should note while using this method – individual folder is dragged & dropped at a time. Moreover, there are chances of data loss and corruption. That’s why the method is less recommended by the professionals.

Trick 4. Use Third-party approach when Outlook is unavailable


Possibly the simplest and painless way without Outlook installation for users is GainTools OST to PST Converter third-party tool. The software converts all emails, contacts, notes, calendars, events and much more from OST file to Outlook. With this professional approach, the users can effortlessly perform Exchange to PST conversion and can store PST to the wanted location.

Bottom Lines

Once the users go through this write-up, they will be able to analyze the different solutions and their good & bad points and make an optimum choice as per their suited situation. Professionals recommend going for the software solution to make the conversion hassle-free.