Complete Guide to Merge OST Files Safely

It is not easy to manage multiple OST files at once, as this could lead to confusion. So, an easy solution to this problem is to bring together the OST files. This is a simple way to combine email data from multiple OST data files into one single location. Since OST files keep a local copy of your mailbox, a user can access their emails without requiring an internet connection. In this article, you will learn why there is a need to merge OST files, the possible methods, and common mistakes to avoid to organize and manage them effortlessly. 

OST File Explained

It is important to understand the basic concept of an OST file before we move ahead. In easy terms, a local copy of mailbox data created by Microsoft Outlook is known as an OST file or Offline Storage Table. A user can simply read, organize, delete, compose, or even manage their emails just like normal online usage. After reconnecting, Outlook automatically updates all changes, such as email delivery, calendar updates, and editing contacts in the server. Although OST files are very helpful, sometimes managing multiple OST files can be challenging. That’s why it’s important to merge OST files. 

Reasons to Merge OST Files

When a user carries multiple OST files, it becomes difficult to manage their Outlook data. That is why merging the OST file is an absolute solution. Here, one can easily organize, keep track of emails, contacts, calendars, and events by simply merging them into one place. Below are some key reasons why a person needs to merge OST files: 

1. By bringing multiple mailbox data together into a single file, makes it easier to access and manage all your data 
2. Scattered OST files can confuse anyone, so they should be avoided
3. Make sure that all your important emails, contacts, and calendar events are all in one place
4. Outlook will work more smoothly when the OST files are combined
5. Merging the OST file will make backing up and restoring your data simple and easy.

Author’s Suggestion: Read this article if you wish to convert OST to DOC easily. 

Steps to Merge OST Files

Now that we have understood the need of combining an OST file. Let us now know the correct way to merge an OST file. So, with the correct approach, it is a straightforward process. However, OST files cannot be merged directly as it is linked to only some specific Outlook profiles. Hence, there are some methods a user can use according to their requirement that will help them to manage and access their mailbox easily. 

#1. Expert Way to Merge OST Files

An effortless way to put together all your OST files, the user can use a professional tool like the SysTools OST Merge Software. Such a tool helps to safely combine all your multiple OST files into a single PST file without losing your mailbox data. As compared to manual methods, professional software can easily handle large files, reduce data corruption, and save you time. So, a person who wants to manage multiple mailboxes and to merge OST files in a quick and hassle-free way, then this method is very useful for them. 

1. To begin with, download and install a reliable OST merge on your system.
2. Start the software and select the option to add multiple OST files.
3. Then, browse and pick all the OST files you want to merge.
4. After that, choose the option to merge all OST files into a single PST file
5. Select a destination folder to save the merged file.
6. Begin the merging process and wait for it to complete.
7. After completion, you can now open Outlook and import the merged PST file.

#2.  Merging OST Files in Outlook Manually 

Many users don't prefer using additional software, so in that case, they can opt for using a manual method, which is another way to merge OST files using Microsoft Outlook. As we know, OST files cannot be combined directly; hence, using Outlook, a user can first convert OST files to PST and then combine them into one single profile. Although this method is safe and free to use, it can take a lot of time, especially when working with multiple or large OST files. It is best suited for those users who want to merge a small number of OST files or need a simple method to merge their mailbox data. 

1. Start by opening Microsoft Outlook on your system.
2. Then click on File and select Open and Export.
3. Choose Import/Export to open the tool
4. Select Export to a file and continue to the next step
5. Select the PST format and proceed
6. Choose the mailbox that is linked to the OST file.
7. After that, choose a location to save the PST file and select finish.
8. Repeat the same steps for all OST files.
9. Go to Import/Export again and import all PST files into one Outlook profile.

Issues Faced While Merging OST Files

There may be times when a user experiences multiple problems when trying to merge OST files. Such obstacles can occur when there is an incorrect Outlook setting, file corruption, or an account access limitation. Hence, it is essential to take precautions and avoid common mistakes to ensure a smooth merging process. 

1. You may not be able to open the OST file if the linked Outlook profile is deactivated
2. A user can face issues when exporting or importing an OST file
3. There  are chances of data loss or missing folders after merging
4. Large OST files usually cause poor performance
5. Damaged OST files can stop the merging process
6. The merge process may fail due to not enough access rights or storage space.

End Note

Let’s conclude by saying that combining OST files is a practical solution, especially for those who want to manage Outlook data efficiently. A person dealing with multiple accounts, system migration, or outdated Outlook profiles can choose to merge OST files, which will help them to keep all their mailbox data organised and reachable. So, using a manual or a professional method and avoiding mistakes can make the process smooth without facing any kind of hassle.