How to Take Backup of Outlook OST File to PST Format?

There are two data files in Microsoft Outlook: first is PST and another one is OST. The emails along with other data items are stored in a PST file. PST is saved on the local system. The OST file is formed when Outlook on the local system is configured with the Exchange Server on the IMAP Outlook account is configured. But, the main question is what will happen if the OST file is corrupted. How can a user access the data? In this query, the best method is to take a backup of OST file in Outlook PST file. The most important solution to do this is to take a backup of Outlook OST to PST file. In this method, the data will be kept in the local machine. The blog deals with the best possible techniques to take a backup of the Outlook OST file of Microsoft Outlook 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010, 2007, and 2003.

Reasons to Take Backup OST File to PST File in Outlook 2016, 2013, 2010

There are many situations which result in creating an archive file of Offline Storage Table OST to PST in Outlook. A few of the primary reasons for the file migration are described here:

OST Synchronization Problem: One can work with OST files in the offline mode. But, it is not thinkable when it is about Exchange Server. Therefore, when MS Outlook is synchronized with the Exchange Server, it becomes problematic to work on the file. That is why it is required to take a backup of Outlook OST file into PST file.

Authentication Issue: To access the data on the MS Exchange Server, the correct credentials included with the validation are required. To avoid all the problematic process, it is better to keep an archive of the OST file in Outlook 2013 PST file.

Data Recovery: In case of accidental file deletion, file corruption or highly damaged OST file, the data cannot be accessed. Therefore, to make data accessible, it is suggested to take a backup of Outlook Offline data files (.ost) for the accounts.

OST Corruption: Because of virus attacks, abrupt shutdown, and other program-related difficulties, the OST file becomes out of reach and its data cannot be availed. Therefore, just to trust the OST file is a mistake. Hence, it is required to take the backup of the OST file of Outlook 2019, 2016, 2013 & Exchange OST file.

Manual Ways to Take a Backup of OST File into PST File of Outlook 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010 & 2003

Techniques #1. By Using Export Option

This method can be used to take the backup of offline OST file into Outlook 2019, 2016, 2013, or any below version. A user has to follow the below steps to archive Outlook OST file 2007:

1. Open Outlook application on the local machine.
2. Then, move to the File menu. Select the option of Export to a file and then hit on the Next.
3. Now choose the option of Export to a file >> Personal File Folder (.pst) and then press on the Next.
4. Select the folder that is to be archived and choose the checkbox starting Include Sub-Folders.
5. Browse the saving location where the archive file is to be stored.
6. Then, hit on the Finish

Note: This technique keeps good in a case when a user is using MS Exchange Server.

Technique #2. Using Archive Option

This archive feature is used to take the backup of the Outlook OST file in order to take the backup. One has to follow these below-mentioned guide to solve the query of “how to take backup of Outlook OST file 2019, 2016, 2010, 2010 & Exchange OST file:

1. Open Outlook on the desktop.
2. Navigate to the File menu, and choose the option of the Archive.
3. A screen will display on the screen. One can choose the desired file or folder that is to be archived.
4. Browse the destination location where the archived PST file is to be stored.
5. Once the Ok button is clicked, the archiving procedure will start.

Note: When the above manual methods, the whole OST file is backed up to the PST file except contacts.

Technique #3. Using New PST File

In this way, the OST mailbox items are moved to the new Outlook PST file. It is required to follow these steps to take the backup of the OST file into Outlook 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010, etc.

1. Open MS Outlook app on your system.
2. Then, create a new Outlook PST file in your Outlook account.
3. And then, drag the whole mailboxes that are to be moved to the Outlook PST file.

Recommended: OST Converter (A Third-Party Tool)

OST file is created when Outlook on the local system is configured with the Exchange Server. In case of any damage or corruption in OST file, the data cannot be accessed. Hence, it is compulsory to take a backup of the offline OST file of all Outlook editions and Exchange OST files. This can be achieved by exporting OT. For this, many manual ways have been suggested in the write-up to resolve the problem of “how to take backup of Outlook OST file”. Moreover, a professional solution or third-party tool like OST Converter can also be used.