Summary: Undoubtedly, when it comes to converting OST files to PST or other formats, users get various solutions, but users must consider a few things while choosing the solution & one most important aspects is ‘preserving folder hierarchy.’ So, users should wisely choose a method that converts the OST file while preserving the folder hierarchy.
In this comprehensive post, we will learn the techniques to preserve folder hierarchy while converting an OST file. We promise to provide you with the perfect solution to convert OST files.
Know why convert the OST file
Due to various requirements, users need to convert the OST file. Here are the key reasons for the conversion of the OST file:
Data Recovery and Backup: To backup all important data of the OST file, like emails, contacts, notes, calendars, etc., converting the OST file is the best way. This backup in a PST file ensures smooth data recovery when the Exchange Server becomes unavailable.
Accessibility and Portability: For data accessibility and portability, users need to convert the OST file. Unlike OST files, PST files can be easily shared and accessed using Outlook, no matter the actual Exchange account is available or not.
Archiving: To archive email data, users find OST mailbox conversion to PST format an ideal solution as PST files can be easily archived and opened without the need for the Exchange Server.
Smart Data Management: One can effectively manage data in a PST file in a better way than in OST files. With PST or other formats like EML, MBOX, etc., users find flexibility in data management.
Migration: Migration and the need for data transfer become simple with PST or other file formats rather than the OST file. Thus, users prefer converting OST files to PST, EML, MBOX, or other formats.
Also read: How to Convert OST to PST using Outlook
Techniques to preserve folder hierarchy while converting OST files
Numerous techniques are used for the conversion of the OST file. But users must choose the solution that preserves the folder hierarchy while converting the OST file. Let us find the solutions in detail.
Technique 1. Using Outlook Import/Export Feature
The very simple and straightforward way to convert an OST file is the import/export feature of Outlook. This method needs access to the original Exchange account linked with the OST file.
Steps with Outlook’s Import/Export feature to convert OST files:
- Open Outlook on your computer.
- Choose the Import/Export option by visiting File – Open & Export
- Then, in the Import & Export wizard, pick the option ‘Export to a file’ and hit the ‘Next’ button.
- Choose the Outlook data file (.pst) option and tap on the ‘Next’ button.
- Now, choose the folders that you want to export from the OST file. Then, hit the ‘Next’ button.
- Pick a path to save the new PST file on your computer
- Pick the ‘Don’t export duplicate items’ option and finally press the ‘Finish’ button.
Technique 2. Convert OST file with a professional tool to preserve folder hierarchy
To safely and easily convert the OST file by preserving folder hierarchy and other items, you can use Softaken OST Converter. This is an amazing way to convert numerous OST files without any glitches. In a few minutes, it can convert any size OST file to PST and other formats. This app swiftly converts any heavy OST file with all items to the selected file format. It ensures trouble-free conversion of Exchange OST files into the required file format.
This solution contains various marvelous features like preview, date filter, etc., to effectively convert OST files. After a deep scan of OST files, users can smoothly export OST mailbox data. This app can easily work with password-protected OST files and completely retains all email components. You can freely convert any Outlook version OST file with this program.
Step-wise instructions to convert the OST file:
- Launch the suggested tool to convert OST files.
- Browse the required OST file for conversion.
- Preview the data items of the OST file and select the desired email items using the filter option.
- Pick the desired format in which you wish to convert the OST file.
- Enter a desired path to save the outcomes and press the ‘Convert’ button.
Conclusion
Through this post, we have outlined two methods to convert OST files. However, to safely preserve folder hierarchy while converting an OST file and other email components, the professional tool discussed above is highly recommended. It smartly and securely converts Outlook OST file items by retaining the actual folder hierarchy. Moreover, it allows conversion of various OST files at a time without any dependent applications. For complete details about this program, use the trial mode before upgrading to the licensed one.