Free methods to convert OST to PST

If you're looking for free methods to convert OST to PST, here are some reliable approaches:

1. Using Microsoft’s Native Methods (Free)

a. Recreate Outlook Profile & Export to PST

Since OST files are offline copies of Exchange mailbox data, you can reconnect to the Exchange server and export data to PST:

  1. Open Control Panel > Mail > Show Profiles.

  2. Add a new profile and set up your Exchange account.

  3. Once synchronized, open Outlook, go to File > Open & Export > Import/Export.

  4. Choose Export to a file > Outlook Data File (.pst).

  5. Select the folders and save as PST.

Limitation: Requires access to the original Exchange server.

b. Use Outlook’s Archive Feature

If you can open the OST in Outlook:

  1. Go to File > Info > Cleanup Tools > Archive.

  2. Select folders and choose PST as the destination.

2. Using Free Conversion Tools (Third-Party)

Some tools offer limited free conversions:

  • RecoveryFix OST to PST Converter (Free Trial)
    → Exports a few items per folder for free.

  • OST2 Converter (Free Demo)
    → Allows preview and partial export.

  • Frre OST to PST Converter (Free Trial)
    → Limited free conversion.

Note: Free versions usually have limitations (partial export, watermarking).

3. Manual Conversion via Thunderbird (Workaround)

If you can’t access Exchange:

  1. Install Thunderbird and ImportExportTools NG add-on.

  2. Import OST via mbox format (indirect method).

  3. Export emails to PST (limited success rate).

4. Using Kernel for OST to PST (Free Scan)

  • Scans and previews OST files for free.

Which Method Should You Choose?

  • If you have Exchange access, use Outlook’s export feature.

  • If OST is orphaned, try a free tool (with limitations).

  • For complete conversion, consider a paid tool if data is critical.

Would you like recommendations for a paid tool if free options don’t work?

Parents
  • You can also try the manual way to convert OST to PST files for free, but it is hard to use and takes a lot of time. The expert way is better because not all users can use this one. No data is lost when you use the TrustVare OST to PST Converter Software. It is the safest and best OST to PST converter. Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010, 2007, 2003, and 2000 can all use it. It converts OST files into PST files without losing any information. Anyone can get the free trial version of the software and try it out to see what it can do because it is small and light. This software works with all versions of Windows OS, including 11, 10, 8, 7, XP, Vista, and more. To convert OST files to PST files, you don't need to use Microsoft Outlook. It's simple to convert all the features of an Outlook OST file to a PST file, including emails, contacts, notes, messages, and more.

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  • You can also try the manual way to convert OST to PST files for free, but it is hard to use and takes a lot of time. The expert way is better because not all users can use this one. No data is lost when you use the TrustVare OST to PST Converter Software. It is the safest and best OST to PST converter. Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010, 2007, 2003, and 2000 can all use it. It converts OST files into PST files without losing any information. Anyone can get the free trial version of the software and try it out to see what it can do because it is small and light. This software works with all versions of Windows OS, including 11, 10, 8, 7, XP, Vista, and more. To convert OST files to PST files, you don't need to use Microsoft Outlook. It's simple to convert all the features of an Outlook OST file to a PST file, including emails, contacts, notes, messages, and more.

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