How to Backup OST File of Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010? – Solved
Maintaining a backup is essential to safeguard against data loss and manipulation. In this guide, Outlook users will learn the necessary steps to back OST file. Let’s dive in and get started!
OST file is formed when Outlook on the local machine is configured with the Exchange Server or IMAP account is configured. But, the main question is what will happen if the OST file is corrupted. How can one access the data? In this scenario, the best way is to backup OST file. The most important method to do this is to convert OST file to PST file.
In this way, the data will be stored in the local system. The post deals with the best possible method to the backup Offline OST file from Microsoft Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010, 2013, 2010, 2007, and 2003 versions.
Recommended:
IMAP or Exchange profile configuration will automatically create an OST file locally. In case of any damage or issue in the OST file, the data cannot be accessed. Hence, it is recommended to take a backup of the offline OST file. This can be done by converting OST file. For this, various manual approaches have been proposed in the write-up to backup the OST files.
Reasons to Backup OST File
There are numerous situations that result in creating an archive file of OST (Offline Storage Table) in Outlook. Some of the primary causes of file conversion are explained here:
OST Synchronization Problem: A user can work with OST files in offline mode. But, it is not possible when it is about Exchange Server. So, when Outlook is synchronized with the Exchange Server, it becomes difficult to work on the file. That is why it is needed to backup OST files.
Authentication Issue: To access the data on Exchange Server, proper credentials along with the validation are required. To avoid all the complex procedures, it is better to archive the OST file.
Data Recovery: In case of accidental file deletion, file corruption, or highly damaged OST files, the data cannot be accessed. So, to make data available, it is recommended to make a backup of the offline .ost files for the accounts.
OST Corruption: Due to virus attacks, abrupt shutdown, and other software-related issues, the OST file becomes out of reach and its data cannot be availed. So, just to rely on the OST file is a mistake. Hence, it is necessary to back up the Offline OST files.
Manual Approaches to Backup OST File
Method 1: Using Export Option
This technique can be used to take make a backup of offline OST files in Outlook all versions. A user has to follow the given steps to archive Outlook OST file:
Step-1. Launch the Outlook application on the local system
Step-2. Then, move to the File menu. Choose the option of “Export to a file” and click on Next
Step-3. Select an Export to a file >> Personal File Folder (.pst) and then, hit on Next
Step-4. Choose the folder that is to be archived and select the checkbox stating Include Sub-Folders
Step-5. Browse the location where the archive file is to be saved
Step-6. Click on the Finish button.
Note: This procedure holds good in the case when a user is using Microsoft Exchange Server.
Method 2: Using Archive Option
This feature is used to make a backup of the OST file in order to create the backup. A user has to follow this set of instructions to backup OST file. Use the below-mentioned steps to archive OST file (for the IMAP account) or backup Exchange OST File (if Outlook is configured with an Exchange account):
Step-1. Open Outlook on the local system
Step-2. Navigate to the File menu, and select the option of the Archive
Step-3. A screen will open up on the screen. A user can select a desired file or folder that is to be archived
Step-4. Browse the destination location where the archived PST file is to be saved
Step-5. Once the OK button is pressed, the archiving process will begin.
Note: With the above manual solutions, ensures the successful OST file backup.
Method 3: Using New PST File
In this approach, the OST mailbox items are exported. However, It is needed to follow these steps to backup OST file.
- Open the Outlook application in the local system.
- Then, Generate a new Outlook PST file.
- In the Next step, drag the complete mailboxes that are to be exported.
Conclusion
Above, we have described all the possibilities to backup OST files from Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010, 2007, and 2003 versions. Therefore, try the manual method that suits your requirements. You can use the archived OST file in the future easily.