How to Convert Large-Sized OST File?

Outlook’s OST file is a crucial element of this email client. It provides access to previously downloaded data in case of extreme circumstances like the unavailability of the Internet or Exchange Server. This data file is linked to a specific Exchange account. It is heavily encrypted. Also, it utilizes a distinctive MAPIEntryID GUID key for security. All these elements make this file secured and safe. But such robust security features sometimes create hurdle in accessing mailbox data when the file becomes orphaned or corrupted.

Now the question arises, whether such conversion is a simple exercise. Then the answer is ‘NO’. There are certain reasons for this argument. Firstly, there is no Microsoft tool for such conversion. Secondly, Outlook is equipped with certain functionalities (like Import/Export Wizard) to execute such conversion. But these manual methods are perfect only for converting a small mailbox data. These functionalities will struggle to convert a large sized OST file. To overcome from such a situation, a user must utilize a professional OST to PST converter software. These tools can efficiently convert a large sized OST file. Checkout our guide titled “How to Convert Large-Sized OST File?” to know more about this topic.

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Scenarios That Needs Conversion of OST file to PST

Some of the events that require the user to perform such conversion include the following:

When the user needs to access OST data in a changed environment.
When the user wants to migrate the data from one device to the another.
In the event of OST file corruption or in case the data file becomes orphaned due to any technical reason.
When the user requires to recover crucial email messages, contacts, etc. from a corrupt data file.
When the user needs to create a backup of the mailbox data.

Ways to Convert Large-Sized OST File?

In the previous section, we have explored possible scenarios that require .ost to .pst conversion. In this part of the post, we will discuss manual ways to execute this task. Follow the below guide.

1: Import/ Export Wizard: The user needs to access the Outlook. Use the same credentials that were used to create the .ost file. After gaining access, follow the steps below:

Open Files.
Go to Open & Export.
Press the ‘Import & Export’ tab.

Now choose ‘Export to a file’ option. Then click ‘Next.’

A box with ‘Export to a File’ name will appear.
Select Outlook Data File (.pst) option. Click Next.

Select folders. Check Include sub-folders option as well. Hit on Next.

Provide file path to export/save the new PST file.
Also select ‘Replace duplicates with items exported’ option (To avoid data duplication).
After this click the ‘Finish’ tab.

2: Drag & Drop Method: It is another simple method to perform this task. The user needs to perform below actions:

Create a fresh, black PST file.
Now select the desired .ost folders (data folders that need to be exported).
Drop those selected folders to the newly created PST file.

Note: This method is recommended if the transfer of small data files. Experts warn to use such methods in case of large data files migration.

Limitations of Manual Methods:

The above discussed manual methods are perfect for converting small .ost file to the PST format. These functionalities are not recommended for converting large mailbox folders. Some of the shortcomings of the above methods are discussed below:

Longer Conversion Time: The manual ways are time taking. A user needs to invest enough productive hours in executing steps involved in the above methods. The processing time is long.
Expertise: The above methods require a person with in-depth knowledge of all processes and stages. Any miscalculation will lead to data loss.
Large Folders: These methods are not recommended for large data files transfer.
Disturbs Hierarchy: The above methods may distort the folder structure and hierarchy.
Orphaned Files: Such methods may fail to bring results in case of orphaned as well as inaccessible .ost files.

Use Professional OST to PST Converter Software (Recommended)

Now the question arises what is the quickest and efficient way to convert a huge OST. A user can utilize third-party tool like Stellar Converter for OST. The USP of this software is its quick speed. It is also applauded for its friendly GUI. A user can perform the conversion task without any technical expertise and assistance. It can easily convert a large as well as an encrypted OST. Some other features of this software are listed below:

Easy to Use: As discussed earlier, this tool is extremely easy to use. Anyone can just upload the file, convert it and download the converted file in PST or other formats.
Easily Convert a Large and Encrypted OST: This tool is smart enough to convert even a large data file (.ost). Based on advanced algorithm, it can easily convert even an encrypted OST to PST.
Entire Mailbox Extraction: A user can extract entire mailbox data using this software. Mailbox folders like attachments, email messages, contacts, etc. can be extracted and converted into portable PST format.

Conclusion:

We have discussed many details regarding OST to PST conversion. The discussion started from technicalities involving Outlook’s OST file. Then we have moved forward towards decoding scenarios that require the conversion of .ost to .pst format. After unearthing situations that require such conversion, we have explored 2 manual approaches viz—the Import/Export Wizard and Drag & Drop Method. But these methods have some limitations. They are not apt for converting a large sized OST file. The best way for converting huge data files is utilizing a professional OST to PST converter tool. Try now!