How Do I Open An IMAP OST File?

Summary: OST files can’t be opened and accessed directly in any Outlook profile or account. To open and access an OST file in any version of Outlook, you must convert the OSTfile into PST format. In this write-up, you will learn the way to open an IMAP OST file with or without Outlook. We also compare both the solution 's merits and demerits to choose better as per user requirement.

Introduction

OST files are created when you configure Exchange server , IMAP account , Office 365 or Outlook.com email account in Outlook. If the user profile is deleted or the mailbox has been disabled from the server, the OST files associated with the profile become an Orphan OST file. Thus, it can’t be opened, accessed or Import OST file in Outlook profile or account using OST to PST Converter.

Technique to Open OST file with Outlook using Import/Export Wizard

1. In this manual technique, you can’t open and access an Orphan OST file and you can access an OST file if your Outlook profile is active and accessible. You can export an OST mailbox item to PST using inbuilt features. If your OST file has become orphaned or damaged then you can choose the Expert technique that we have mentioned in the next solution. Now, let’s see the process and its restrictions.
2. First, run Outlook and click on the file menu.
3. Here, hit on open and click on Import and export option.
4. Before hitting on next, choose Export to a file.
5. Here, choose Outlook data file(.PST) and tap on next.
6. Now, select the OST folder as you want to export as a PST.
7. At last, browse File location and click on finish.

Restrictions of Using Manual Approach

• It consumes a lot of time and doesn’t export entire IMAP OST mailbox data.
• Skipping steps or any human error will lose all over data.
• It’s not easy to keep the whole process in their mind.
• Technical expert is required during the manual process.
• Outlook installation and active profile is required.

Expert technique to Open Orphan OST file without using Outlook

OST Converter using SysTools software to convert inaccessible, orphaned, encrypted OST files to PST without facing any troubles. You can export multiple OST files without Outlook and it fully protects our data and maintains integrity during the process.

• Download and start software on your windows machine.
• Choose and upload the OST file as you want to open and export.
• Here, select PST file format as per your wish in export options.
• At last, choose a destination and click on convert.

Highlighted features of Using Expert technique

• This software is specially designed for non-tech as well as professional users.
• Basic knowledge of computers is required to operate this tool.
• You can convert OST to PDF, EML, EMLX using the same software.
• It allows you to convert an OST file without having an exchange profile or account.
• You can select a file or folder as per user requirements.

Wind Up

In this write-up, we have mentioned the top two techniques to solve your queries. There is manual as well automated technique, you can opt any of them. Manual solutions are free but not free from restrictions and limitations. So, we recommend you choose Expert technique to complete this task without worrying about your data. Now, the request has been properly resolved here if you have confusion or facing any difficulties you can connect with our technical expert anytime from anywhere to get solution immediately to prevent all the error and difficulties that you required to face in the manual approach.