OST file is a local copy of your mailbox stored on your computer by Microsoft Outlook. It allows users to access work with their emails, contacts, calendars, contacts and tasks even when offline. Once the connectivity is restored, Outlook automatically sync changes with the mail server.
Why Import OST to Microsoft 365?
- Organizations switching from Exchange Server to Microsoft 365 often find that users’ OST files contain important file data not stored on the server. Importing this data ensures a seamless migration and preserves mailbox content.
- When an Outlook profile becomes corrupted or deleted the OST file becomes orphaned meaning it can no longer be with the mail server.
- Microsoft 365 allows access to emails and calendar data from any device. Importing OST data into a Microsoft 365 mailbox ensures users can work from anywhere without being tied to a local copy on one machine.
- Importing OST data to Microsoft 365 adds an extra layer of security by storing it in the cloud, protecting against failure, theft or system crashes.
Can You Directly Import Outlook OST Files into Microsoft 365?
No, You cannot directly import Offline OST files into Microsoft 365 like PST files. As OST files are encrypted and linked to a specific Outlook profile. This means you cannot open or import directly into another account.
Methods to Import Outlook OST to Microsoft 365
Since, you cannot directly import an OST file into Microsoft 365, you must follow step-by-step instructions. Below are the most instructions to get this done, whether you are an individual user or managing an enterprise migration.
Method 1. Export PST file from Outlook and Import into Microsoft 365
- Open “Outlook” with the original OST profile.
- Navigate to File and click on “Open and Export”.
- Choose “Export to a file” and click on the Next button.
- Browse Outlook data file and click on Next button.
- After that, select the “OST folders” as you want to export and click on Next.
- Browse destination and press finish to “export PST from Outlook”.
- Configure “Microsoft 365 account” in Outlook and import PST via import/export option.
Method 2. Use Network Upload to Microsoft 365 Admin Center
- Upload exported PST using “Microsoft Azure Storage”.
- Map the PST file to the appropriate user mailbox in the “Microsoft 365 compliance center”.
- Start the “Import Job”.
Method 3. Use Drive Shipping Method
- Copy exported PST file to a “BitLocker Encrypted Hard Drive”.
- Ship the drive to “Microsoft data center”.
- Microsoft uploads the data to your “Microsoft 365 tenant”.
Alternative Solutions to Directly Import Outlook OST to Microsoft 365
If you want to transfer Offline OST file directly into Microsoft 365 or doesn’t have configured OST file with Outlook then we recommend you to opt Jagware OST Converter as it allows to transfer into Microsoft 365 with maintained each and every attributes of OST file and no risk of data loss with this solution.
Import Outlook OST to Microsoft 365
- Download and run the “Recommended Wizard” on your system.
- Click on “Convert Configured Outlook mailbox data” and press on Next button.
- Preview to “select Outlook folder or subfolder” as you are required to migrate.
- Choose “Office 365” in the list of Saving options and enter “Microsoft 365 credentials”.
- Select filters and “Advanced filters” for making specific migration.
- Press Next to start “import Outlook OST to Microsoft 365”.
Top-notch Elements of Recommended Tool
- This tool can also import OST to Outlook, Thunderbird, Entourage, Gmail and all IMAP Supported email platforms.
- It offers a simple initiative interface to easily perform by any professional or individual users.
- You can easily restore and convert corrupted, orphan, oversize, dismounted and inaccessible OST files.
- With this wizard, you can also use filter options such as date range, from, to, subject, exclude folders, organizer, root folder, exclude empty folders, mails, calendars and many more.
- This software also offers a preview feature to select the OST mailbox folder or subfolder as needed to convert.
Best Practices for OST to Microsoft 365 Import
- Before importing Outlook OST files to Microsoft 365, create a backup of original OST files. It helps you in case of corruption, conversion error or failed migrations.
- Check the OST file is properly linked to the OST file and all required permission enabled in Microsoft 365 to import your data.
- Always run a test migration for a smaller mailbox to check critical data. This helps to identify issues early and validate your methods for hassle free experience.
Final Thoughts
In this blog, we have provided value insights about the process to import Outlook OST to Microsoft 365. However, if you have connected Outlook with Exchange Server then you can perform it manually. Otherwise, we recommend you to opt for expert recommended software for quick and effective migration.
Common Questions about Import Outlook OST to Microsoft 365
How do I Import an Outlook data file to Outlook 365?
Go to File and click on open and export and next click on Import/Export. Choose Import from another program or file, then select Outlook data file and browse to your PST file, choose how to handle duplicates, and import into Outlook 365 mailbox.
What is the difference between Offline OST and PST files?
Let’s understand the difference between OST and PST file as OST file stores offline copies of your mailbox and sync with Exchange or Microsoft 365. PST files are portable and used for backups and manual imports. OST is tied to an account/profile. PST can be opened independently on any Outlook version.
How do I Add a New PST file in Outlook 365?
In Outlook 365, Go to File and click on Account Settings and again click on Account Settings and select data files. Click Add, choose a location and create a new PST file. It will appear in your folder pane where you can store emails, contacts and calendar items.
