Outlook data can become very extensive, making it challenging to manage, especially when you need to transfer it to a new computer. It is a headache to move OST files, as they store mailbox data, such as emails, contacts, and calendars. The situation becomes difficult when you want the files for offline access, but it is not possible to copy and paste them onto a new system.
Let’s put this scenario like this: You have recently switched from an old-gen laptop to a new one and want to move the OST file. The issue occurs when you have already deactivated your account, and you can’t reconfigure it on your new device.
That’s why it’s essential to find a suitable method or a trusted OST converter to transfer an OST file to a new computer. Here, we’ll walk you through the detailed process of transferring OST file data, along with some valuable solutions.
What Difficulties Occur when Moving OST Files to a New Computer?
OST file is connected to the user’s email profile, mailbox configurations, and the server. Therefore, it is not as easy as simply copying and pasting OST files. There are problems you may face like:
- Outlook Read Fail: Outlook profiles have their specific OST file synchronized. Therefore, the chance of rejection is high when you transfer an OST file to a different Outlook profile.
- Denied Access: Even if you copy the file, Outlook may throw access errors due to security settings tied to the original account.
- Orphaned OST: If the original email account is no longer active, the OST becomes orphaned. Outlook can’t connect it to any mailbox.
- Corruption: Copying large OST files or moving them through external drives can sometimes cause file corruption.
- Unsynced Issues: Drafts, notes, or other data saved offline may not exist on the server and can’t be recovered by simply re-syncing.
How to Export Outlook OST file to a New Computer?
The complexities of OST file ask you to rely on authorized manual methods for positive and accurate outcome. Here are the best methods to move your OST file: -
Method 1. Outlook’s Export and Import Feature
Export OST File From Outlook
While using the built-in utility of Outlook, you can simply save the entire OST file data locally. Follow the steps below: -
In your Outlook profile, click on File.
Click and extend the Open & Export option on the side pane. Then, select the Import/Export option.
Now, from the Import and Export Wizard, select the Export to a file option and click on Next.
Select the file type to save your OST file, so choose Outlook Data File (PST) from the list and click Next.
Provide a specific location to save the file and choose between the options to manage file duplication. Then, click on Next, and the PST file is saved.
Import PST File
Make sure to carry a backup file data of your old Outlook profile into the new system for easy access. You can simply import the PST file to access saved data. Follow the steps below:
In Outlook, click on File>Open & Export > Import/Export options.
From the Import and Export Wizard, choose the Import from another program or file option.
To import the file, select the Outlook Data File (.pst) option and click Next.
Browse to add the file location for the import and click on Next.
Method 2. Use Advanced OST Converter
The use of manual methods may support moving OST files for small-level exports only. But when you deal with extensive Outlook data, it can fail miserably. If you're unable to access your old Outlook profile, you can't rely on manual methods to recover it. Under such a scenario, you may need to find an OST to PST converter.
We recommend using Kernel OST to PST converter for error-free and quick conversions. It helps to move data from corrupted, orphaned, or easily inaccessible OST files. You can achieve instant results while transferring complete data, including emails, contacts, calendars, attachments, and more, with full integrity.
Here are some scenarios where Kernel OST to PST Converter becomes your best option:
- You’ve changed jobs and lost access to your corporate email account.
- Your Outlook profile is corrupted or is not opening.
- The OST file contains important offline data that wasn’t synced.
- You want a fast, error-free way to move your emails to a new device.
Conclusion
It’s not easy to move OST files between computers, as Outlook handles account and file security; that’s why direct file transfer may not work. When you try manual solutions, such as importing and exporting as PST files, you can achieve results, but they come with the risk of failures and work only under limited conditions.
That’s where the need for a professional OST Converter tool arises. We mentioned above the use of this tool, which helps you recover and move your data with minimal effort. Take the free trial today to know more.
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