Outlook OST stands for Offline Storage Table. This data file is crucial for Outlook operations. It is created when the user configures Outlook with Exchange, IMAP, or Microsoft 365 accounts. This highly secured file ensures offline access to the mailbox. OST is also linked with the original Outlook profile and server for enhanced data security. But this multiple security layer becomes problematic sometimes. If anything goes wrong with the profile or server, this data file (.ost) becomes inaccessible. This is where the problematic phase started. An inaccessible data file (.ost) means the user has lost its access to the mailbox. The only solution to this issue is to convert OST to the PST format. It is the best approach. Checkout our guide titled “Fix OST File Issues by Converting to PST Format Free” to explore more about the subject. This post will cover factors that can create OST problems. It will also shed light on OST converter tool.
Causes of an Inaccessible OST:
Below is the list of factors that can cause an inaccessible data file:
- Conflicts caused by poor or unstable network connection can lead to this issue
- Sever issue is the main reason for OST File Corruption
- Power failure can also damage the .ost file
- An oversized Outlook data file (.ost) and abrupt shutdown can also lead to corruption, making this crucial data file inaccessible
- In case of accidental deletion of the original mailbox from the server can also make this file inaccessible
Consequences of OST File Corruption: Data file corruption is a direct threat to the sensitive data. It not only causes severe performance issues but also leads to inaccessibility to the mailbox data. Some key consequences are listed below:
- The user is unable to access Outlook mailbox
- Email messages or mailbox folders go missing
- Consistent synch issues with the server
- Slow Outlook operations
- Popping up of error messages while accessing data
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Manual Ways to Fix OST Issues:
After analysing the causes and consequences of OST issues, let’s move on to explore the ways to fix them. There are some built-in functionalities that we explore under this section. Follow the below guide:
1: Utilizing the Import/ Export Wizard: We must consider one basic fact. It is only an exporting functionality. Follow the below steps:
- Access the Outlook app. (The user needs to use the same credentials with which the data file (.ost) was created).
- Go to Files.
- Press Open & Export.
- Navigate to ‘Import & Export’ tab.
- Now choose ‘Export to a file.’
- Then hit on ‘Next.’
- A dialogue box reading ‘Export to a File’ will pop up.
- From the options choose “Outlook Data File (.pst)”.
- Press Next.
- Select the folders.
- Check Include sub-folders option as well. Hit on Next.
- At this stage, the user needs to provide file path (to export/save the new PST file).
- It is advisable to check ‘Replace duplicates with items exported’ option. It will avoid data duplication.
- Now select ‘Finish’ tab.
2: Drag & Drop Approach: This is a very simple approach. Experts recommend this approach only when the transfer of small data is required. The user needs to follow the below actions:
- Create a blank PST.
- Select .ost folders.
- Drop the selected .ost folders to the newly created PST file.
Are Manual Methods Sufficient?
The answer to this question is ‘No.’ Manual functionalities may fail. They have several shortcomings. Some of them are discussed below:
- Built-in features consume loads of productive hours
- Built-in functionalities require an active Outlook profile
- These methods require an Exchange Server availability
- They fail in case of inaccessible or orphaned OST
- Manual ways may fail in case of an oversized OST
What is the Most Effective Way to Convert an OST to PST?
In this part of the guide titled “Fix OST File Issues by Converting to PST Format Free” we will explore the expert recommended methods. IT admins strongly advocate to utilize professional tools for such conversion. These tools perform independently. In fact, tools like Stellar Converter for OST can convert even an inaccessible OST of any size. Is Stellar a free OST converter tool? Yes, it provides a free trial/demo version. Using a free version, a user can scan, preview, and save 20 items per folder. It is the best way to check software’s capability before making an investment. But thnis tool allows limited functionalities in the free version. The user needs to buy a licenced version to enjoy full features. Plus, the desktop version also needs installation. It may create problem for users who are wary of downloading third-party tools.
Understanding Online OST Converter and Why it is the Best Choice:
So, we have explored the free OST converter tool. But the free version offers very limited features. Besides investment, the desktop tool also needs to be installed. This is again a problem for a user who prefer data safety. So, what is the best solution for such concerned users. For them, the simplest way is to utilize any Online OST Converter. It is basically a web-based service. Using platform like Stellar Online OST Converter a user can convert an inaccessible OST into a working, portable PST format. It may be noted that online platform neither needs software installation nor it requires Exchange Server connectivity.
Advantages of Employing Stellar Online OST Converter:
- It is purely a web-based service (Doesn’t require software installation or setup)
- No Outlook installation required
- No active Exchange Server required
- Can convert orphaned or inaccessible OST files
- Cost effective than desktop converter tools
- It doesn’t require high-level permissions on the computer
Conclusion:
OST file issues can disrupt the workflow of the user. They need to be fixed at the earliest. In the above guide titled “Fix OST File Issues by Converting to PST Format Free,” we have explored the reason for OST file corruption. We have learned the consequences of such corruption. The post shed light on 2 manual ways—Import/Export Wizard and the Drag & Drop Method. Both these methods have certain limitations. They may fail in case of an inaccessible OST. We have also explored a free OST converter tool. But the free version offers limited features. The simplest, cost-efficient option is to employ an online OST converter. Such web-based platforms are extremely easy to use. They offer safe, fast, and complete recovery of mailbox data. Platforms like Stellar Online OST Converter are the best. They offer advanced features for handling large and complex files.
