How Can I Convert OST to MSG Files Easily?

Introduction

Managing Outlook data is key for professionals who use email daily. One of the common issues is when you need to convert OST to MSG files. OST files (Offline Storage Tables) store mailbox data for offline use, while MSG files are individual email messages. Converting OST to MSG can help in email archiving, data migration or forensic analysis.

In this comprehensive guide we will explore the best ways to convert OST to MSG files, both manually and using automated solutions. Whether you are an IT expert or an Outlook user, this article will help you do the conversion securely and efficiently.

OST and MSG File Formats

Before we get into conversion methods, let’s understand what these file formats are.

What is an OST File?

An OST (Offline Storage Table) file is created by Microsoft Outlook when it is connected to Exchange, Office 365 or IMAP accounts. It allows users to work offline, automatically syncing changes once reconnected to the mail server. However OST files are encrypted and tied to a specific Outlook profile, making them hard to access outside that environment.

What is an MSG File?

An MSG file is an individual email file used by Microsoft Outlook. It stores a single message along with all its metadata, attachments and properties. MSG files are flexible, easy to share and ideal for email backup, archiving or migration.

When an OST file becomes inaccessible (for example due to account deletion, corruption or server issues), converting OST to MSG becomes necessary to recover and reuse valuable mailbox data.

Why Convert OST to MSG Files

There are several scenarios where you might need to do this conversion:

Account Deletion or Exchange Server Crash: When the Exchange account is removed or corrupted, OST files become orphaned and inaccessible.

Data Migration: To move emails between different systems or store individual messages separately.

Backup and Archival: MSG files can be stored individually, making it easy to archive and retrieve specific emails.

Forensic and Legal Investigation: MSG files provide evidence in investigations, as each file contains complete message details.

Email Sharing and Portability: MSG files can be opened and shared without requiring full Outlook profiles.

Manual Methods to Convert OST to MSG Files

There are a few manual ways to convert OST data into MSG format. However these methods require an active Outlook profile associated with the original OST file.

Method 1: Using Microsoft Outlook’s Save As Option

Open Microsoft Outlook and select the email message you want to save. Click File and Save As.

From the “Save as type” dropdown select Outlook Message Format – Unicode (*.msg).

Choose a location on your computer to save the file.

Method 2: Drag and Drop to Save Emails as MSG

1.      Launch Outlook and open the desired mailbox.

2.      Create a new folder on your desktop.

3.      Select one or multiple emails in Outlook.

4.      Drag and drop the selected emails into the desktop folder.

5.      Each email will be automatically saved as an .MSG file.

Limitations of Manual Conversion

Manual techniques can only be used if the OST file is linked with a live Outlook account. In case the OST file becomes orphaned, corrupted, or disconnected, these methods will not work. Additionally:

1.      Manual conversion is slow and labor-intensive.

2.      There is a risk of data loss or metadata corruption.

3.      Attachments or embedded items may not export properly.

4.      Users cannot convert contacts, calendars, or other mailbox components easily.

To overcome these limitations, professionals often rely on automated OST to MSG converter tools.

Automated Solution: Use a Professional OST to MSG Converter Tool

For seamless, accurate, and fast conversion, it is recommended to use a dedicated ZOOK OST to MSG Converter Software. These tools can handle orphaned, encrypted, or large OST files efficiently without any data loss.

Key Features of an Advanced OST to MSG Converter

1.      Batch Conversion: Convert multiple OST files or entire mailboxes into MSG format in one go.

2.      Selective Export: Choose specific folders or emails to convert.

3.      Preserve Metadata: Retains email properties such as sender, receiver, subject, attachments, and timestamps.

4.      Preview Option: View email content before saving.

5.      Supports All Outlook Versions: Compatible with Outlook 2021, 2019, 2016, 2013, and earlier.

6.      Maintains Folder Structure: Keeps the same hierarchy after conversion.

How to Use a Professional Converter

1.      Install and launch a trusted OST to MSG Converter Tool.

2.      Click on Add File and browse to select your OST file.

3.      The software will scan and preview all mailbox items.

4.      Choose the output format as MSG.

5.      Select a destination folder and click Convert.

6.      The tool will export all selected items to MSG format within minutes.

This method ensures 100% data integrity, saves time, and works even if you do not have Outlook installed.

Benefits of Convert OST to MSG Files

Using MSG format offers several advantages for professionals and organizations:

1.      Independent Access: MSG files can be opened individually without connecting to Exchange or Outlook profiles.

2.      Ease of Backup: Store and manage emails separately.

3.      Portability: Transfer specific messages between systems easily.

4.      Data Recovery: Retrieve information from corrupted or orphaned OST files.

5.      Better Email Management: Archive important messages individually for quick access.

Tips for Successful OST to MSG Conversion

To ensure smooth and error-free conversion, keep the following in mind:

1.      Always create a backup of your OST file before starting the conversion.

2.      Avoid interrupting the process once initiated.

3.      If using manual methods, ensure Outlook is properly configured.

4.      For large or damaged OST files, prefer automated tools for reliability.

5.      Verify the converted MSG files after export to ensure data accuracy.

Final Thoughts

 
Convert OST to MSG files is a practical approach to regain access to crucial Outlook data, especially when OST files become orphaned or corrupted. While manual techniques are available, they are limited and not suitable for large or damaged files. Therefore, using a professional OST to MSG converter tool is the most efficient, secure, and time-saving method.