.PST File Extension
What is a PST File?
A PST file, short for Personal Storage Table, is a data file used by Microsoft Outlook to store user's email messages, contacts, calendar events, and other personal information. It is a proprietary file format developed by Microsoft and serves as a local archive of Outlook data.
How to Open PST Files
PST files are primarily opened with Microsoft Outlook. To open a PST file in Outlook, go to the File menu, select Open & Export, and then choose Open Outlook Data File. Navigate to the location of the PST file and select it. Outlook will then load the contents of the PST file into the sidebar.
Can PST Files Be Converted?
Yes, PST files can be converted to other formats such as CSV for contacts or EML for emails. Tools like Stellar Converter for PST or online services can be used for conversion, depending on the specific needs.
Technical Information
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| File Type | Data File |
| Created by | Microsoft |
| Format | Binary |
| Maximum Size | 50 GB (Unicode PST), 2 GB (ANSI PST) |
FAQ
- What happens if a PST file gets too large? - Large PST files can cause performance issues in Outlook. It's advisable to archive old data or split the file to maintain optimal performance.
- Can I access a PST file on a Mac? - Yes, though Outlook for Mac doesn't use PST as its native format, you can import PST files into Outlook for Mac.
- Is it safe to convert PST files? - While conversion is generally safe, it's important to back up the original PST file before attempting any conversion to prevent data loss.