What is an OST File Format?

Introduction of .ost

OST stands for Offline Storage Table. OST file created automatically through Microsoft Outlook “Offline Folder” feature. It stores email messages and other data saved by MS Outlook from an exchange server. When the Exchange connectivity gets offline it becomes active and synchronizes all the updated information when exchange turns online. With OST files you can work offline and the server is automatically synced. Microsoft Outlook makes an exact copy of users information on Exchange server when you are working offline. It is an exact replica of the folders of a separate user mailbox on Exchange. Every modification is done in “offline mode” is automatically synchronized when you connected to the Exchange server.

Application Supported

OST file supports all the versions of Microsoft Outlook.

Default Location of OST File

• Microsoft Outlook 2000 and 2003- C:\Documents and Settings\%username%\Local Settings\Application Data\Microsoft\Outlook\
• Microsoft Outlook 2007- C:\Users\%username%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Outlook\
• Microsoft Outlook 2010- C:\Documents and Settings\%username%\My Documents\Outlook Files
• Microsoft Outlook 2013- C:\Users\%username%\Documents\Outlook Files

How to Create .ost File

• Go to File Menu and select the Offline option.
• The offline file is created on your system and all the data from the server is copied to the new OST.
• Select the folder for offline utilization. (Inbox, Sent items, Calendar, Contacts, Deleted items and Task folder) are automatically made available offline.