.OST File Extension
What is an OST File?
An OST file, or Offline Storage Table file, is created by Microsoft Outlook, a popular email client and personal information manager. It is used primarily to store a synchronized copy of mailbox data from an Office 365, Exchange, or Outlook.com account, enabling access to emails, contacts, tasks, and calendar data offline.
How to Open an OST File
To open an OST file, you generally need to use Microsoft Outlook. The file is automatically associated with your email account settings in Outlook and is not meant to be opened separately. If you need to view the contents of an OST file without using Outlook, third-party tools like OST Viewer can be used.
Can OST Files Be Converted?
Yes, OST files can be converted to other formats such as PST files using tools like OST2PST converters. This conversion can be useful for backing up data or migrating to different systems or software.
Technical Information
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Format | Binary |
| Default Location | \Users\user\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Outlook |
| Created By | Microsoft |
FAQ
- What is the difference between OST and PST files? While both store Outlook data, OST files are used for offline access, whereas PST files are used for storing data on your personal computer and do not require server synchronization.
- How can I backup an OST file? To backup an OST file, convert it to a PST format or directly copy the file from its default directory to another secure location.
- What should I do if my OST file is corrupted? Use repair tools like the Inbox Repair Tool (scanpst.exe) provided by Microsoft or third-party recovery tools to attempt to repair the file.