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How to Open an OST Data File With & Without Outlook

Easy ways to deal with OST files on the new MS OS

3 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Key notes

An OST (Offline Storage Table) file is a local copy of an Exchange mailbox stored on a user’s computer. It allows users to access their email, calendar, and contacts even offline or disconnected from the Exchange server.

However, the OST file can become inaccessible if the user’s computer crashes or if the file becomes corrupt. This article will discuss different ways to open an OST file, both with and without Outlook.

What are the benefits of OST files?

What are the benefits of OST files?

OST (Offline Storage Table) files offer several benefits, including:

It’s important to note that OST files are specific toMicrosoft Outlookand are used in conjunction with Microsoft Exchange Server.

So, let us now explore the opening of OST files on Windows 11.

How can I open an OST Data File?

How can I open an OST Data File?

1. Open OST data files with Outlook

The OST file should now be opened, and its contents will be displayed in the Outlook folder hierarchy.

2. Open an OST file without Outlook

A specialized OST file viewer or converter software does not require Outlook to be installed. These tools include OST Viewer Pro, SysTools OST Recovery, and Stellar OST to PST Converter.

They work similarly to the Recovery Toolbox OST viewer but are more robust and offer more functionality.

In conclusion, OST files are a valuable tool for accessing Exchange mailbox data offline, but they can become inaccessible if the user’s computer crashes or the file becomes corrupt.

By understanding these different methods of retrieving them, you can ensure that you can access your essential email, calendar, and contacts even if your OST file becomes inaccessible.

More about the topics:Microsoft Exchange

Afam Onyimadu

Windows Software Expert

Afam is a geek and the go-to among his peers for computer solutions. He has a wealth of experience with Windows operating systems, dating back to his introduction to Windows 98. He is passionate about technology amongst many other fields. Aside from putting pen to paper, he is a passionate soccer lover, a dog breeder, and enjoys playing the guitar and piano.

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Afam Onyimadu

Windows Software Expert

Afam is a geek and the go-to among his peers for computer solutions. He has a wealth of experience with Windows operating systems.