If you are using Outlook together with Microsoft Exchange Server, then you need to know where the data are stored to save them properly.
The default location for delivery and storage of Outlook data is a mailbox on an Exchange Server. An Exchange Server administrator typically backs up mailboxes on a server.
At the same time, some Exchange Server administrators store Outlook data in a .pst file on the user’s computer.
In this review, you will find out how to use personal information folders, how to open without Outlook PST files, and how to store data backups created in Microsoft Office Outlook 2007 and 2010.
Also, we discuss the subject of how to find out how to back up messages to PST files and perform other basic tasks within the system.
Ways To Save Files In Microsoft Outlook
There are two ways to save files in Microsoft Outlook, via OST or PST folders. Let’s take a closer look at how this works:
- Folder with OST files. This is a storage area that can be used offline. It is used in the exchange environment, i.e., using Microsoft Exchange Server. This allows users to work offline and is very useful in areas with unreliable or limited connections. Files that are stored and updated in the OST will be updated and synced when the user logs in. When Microsoft Outlook is configured to communicate with the Exchange environment, it allows users to read, reply, compose, edit, and delete emails even when offline. In Cached Mode, Microsoft Outlook copies emails to an OST file.
- Folder with PST files. On the other hand, the folder with PST files is private and is not recommended for general settings. It is stored on the client hard drive and servers other than Microsoft Exchange Server. HTTP and IMAP use a folder with .pst files. Emails and their attachments can be delivered and stored in the PST file folder. Other information or data such as calendars, contacts, and tasks that are stored locally on the computer are placed in folders with PST files. When deleting or migrating an Outlook mailbox, there is a possibility of losing data stored in .ost files. If you need to quickly convert from .ost to .pst format, use online services. The process will take a minimum of time.
How To Convert Formats?
The conversion can help you deal with file decryption. To solve this problem, special software or various online services are used:
- Programs (both paid and free) have advanced functionality — for example, they can restore damaged documents. The range of possibilities depends on the type of paid subscription;
- The online service will help if there is no free memory on the PC or the user does not want to install the application. All that is required for the operation to be complete is an Internet connection, with Windows operating system and Microsoft Outlook being on.
The choice of the file access/ conversion method depends on the personal preference of a user.
The fastest and most convenient option is using utilities that work without downloading. The online application will easily handle most files.
If you are unable to recover your data, please contact technical support or try the operation again using the PC program.
