How to Copy Outlook Ost File to Another Computer?

Copying an Outlook OST (Offline Outlook Data File) to another computer can be a bit tricky because OST files are typically tied to a specific Outlook profile and aren't meant to be portable like PST files. However, if you need to transfer an OST file to another computer for some reason, you can follow these steps:

Note: OST files are designed for offline access to your mailbox when connected to Exchange Server. If you're moving to a new computer and still have access to your Exchange Server account, it's often easier to set up Outlook on the new computer and let it create a new OST file by syncing your mailbox.

Here's how you can attempt to move an OST file:

Step 1: Locate the OST File

1. On your current computer, open Outlook.

2. Click on "File" in the top left corner.

3. Select "Account Settings" and then choose "Account Settings" again.

4. In the Account Settings window, go to the "Data Files" tab.

5. You'll see a list of data files, including your OST file. Note the location of the OST file on your computer.

Step 2: Copy the OST File

1. Close Outlook on your current computer.

2. Use a USB drive, external hard drive, or a file-sharing method like email or cloud storage to copy the OST file from your current computer to the new one.

Step 3: Set Up Outlook on the New Computer

1. On the new computer, if you haven't already, install and set up Microsoft Outlook.

2. Open Outlook. It will try to create a new OST file for your email account.

3. Before Outlook fully synchronizes with your email server, close it.

Step 4: Replace the New OST File with the Copied One

1. Locate the new OST file created by Outlook on your new computer. It will be in a similar location to the one on your old computer.

2. Rename the new OST file (e.g., add "_old" to the filename) to keep it as a backup.

3. Copy the OST file that you copied from your old computer into the same location on your new computer.

Step 5: Reopen Outlook

1. Reopen Outlook on the new computer.

2. Outlook should recognize the copied OST file and use it to sync with your Exchange Server mailbox.

Important Notes:

• This method may not work in all cases, as OST files are tied to specific profiles and Exchange Server configurations. It's often easier to set up a new profile on the new computer and let Outlook create a new OST file.

• Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to access the OST file on both computers.

• Always make backups of important data before making changes or transferring files.

If the above process fails to work for you, simply convert OST to PST file format using Magus OST to PST converter, take the PST to your new PC via any external drive. Next import the PST file to the Outlook on other PC via import/export wizard.