Find Out How To Convert Corrupted OST Data From Offline Mailbox

Encryption is the strongest aspect of an OST file that ensures its security. The OST files come with a built-in encryption that only allows the OST file to be opened with the mailbox having the matching encryption key to it. However, the integrated encryption was removed since Outlook 2007 version. Though, OST files remained rigid enough to not open on just any client-server environment at least not in its true form. Thus, in this blog we will cover some of the way through which you can both; convert an OST and also know how to convert corrupted OST data from offline mailbox just in case the file is detected to be damaged.

How To Convert OST Data Without Complications?

In cached mode activated, Outlook is programmed to store an offline copy of any mailbox residing on Exchange Server this offline copy of the mailbox is what we know as OST file which usually has the following storage path:

c:UsersAppdataLocalMicrosoftOutlook

Now, to start with the conversion of an OST is done commonly in PST data file format. PST is the proprietary data storage of Outlook when working individually or in a server-less environment. Thus, the purpose of conversion is evident by the fact, i.e. an OST file depends on a client – server environment while a PST is independent.

Following is a list of the handful options that you can try for converting OST file data to PST:

If there is not much that needs to be converted from your offline data file then, select the desired set of messages and forward them to a preferred Outlook account for them to be transferred on to the account indirectly. However, this will destroy the originality of the messages, just in case it is an important factor for you. Create a PST file on the same Outlook profile and use the simple procedure of dragging and dropping items from your OST to this PST file. Custom view will be retained in this procedure. If you want to move bulk of messages, then choose dragging and dropping folders. However, this is only applicable on the default folders (Inbox, Drafts, Sent Items, etc.).

Though it isn’t a suggested method of conversion, but is a good workaround for the same. You can export the OST as a PST file.

The above mentioned options are applicable only if the condition is fulfilled, i.e. OST is in a healthy state and not corrupt. However, the next part also discusses options that help discover how to convert corrupted OST data from offline mailbox.

You can reuse the old OST file by first disabling the Cached mode and then enabling it to use the OST created earlier. This may possibly restore the contents but the success ratio is not guaranteed. Use a third party application which would be the most reliable option in case of corruption, as it will treat the damage as well as convert the data completely without manual input required.

OST to PST is a suggested application that is tested for the purpose of finding out how to convert corrupted OST data from offline mailbox to an Outlook PST. Trying the demo version prior to complete conversion could prove to be an effective step in the process.