-
Written By
Suman Rawat -
Approved By
Sonika Rawat -
Updated on
June 3rd, 2025 -
Read Time
5 minutes
How to Open OST File on Another Computer (Mac & Windows)
Summary: Outlook Exchange files, or OST files, store data offline and are a copy of all the Outlook data present on the Exchange. However, sometimes users have to change the system, need data on a different computer, or encounter file damage. In all cases, choosing to open OST file on another computer is an ideal way to keep continuous access to files. This blog thus describes the same and also suggests an OST to PST Converter Tool for quick data export with guaranteed security.
But wait, why are we doing this exactly? What’s the purpose here, the driving factor to transfer OST file to another computer?
Move OST File to New Computer: Is it Possible?
Like Outlook PST files, OST (Offline Storage Table) files also contain the same Outlook mailbox items. It generates when Outlook connects with Microsoft Exchange and maintains the data on a local storage device. These can also be created when connected to an IMAP Server. Users can easily work with it without internet connectivity. But here’s a catch.
“OST files are bound with the Outlook profile and the system they were created. Just copying them to another computer won’t help you out. It is because Outlook won’t recognize the file and display its contents; instead, it’ll show an error.”
Still, some reasons prevail to open Outlook OST file on another computer, such as:
- Change of workplace
- Upgrading Outlook
- Creating OST Backup
- Legal or Forensic review of email
- Recovery of data
Methods Available to Open OST File on Another Computer
As we read above that OST files, even if directly transferred to another computer, cannot be viewed. So, better to first convert OST to PST, Outlook’s most compatible file format that opens on both Mac and Windows. You can either perform this manually for free or with a dedicated tool. The guide for the processes is mentioned below.
Open Outlook OST File on Another Computer Free
Follow these steps to briefly save the OST file as a PST on any Mac or Windows OS:
- First, locate the OST file on your source system.
- Then, ensure that it is added within your Outlook profile; if not, import it.
- Next, open the Import/Export dialog from the Open and Export.
- Further, press Export to a file. Click on Next and >> opt PST.
- Again, click Next and choose the OST file or entire folder from the tree list.
- Afterward, click Next and browse to give the storage location for PST.
- Finally, hit Finish, and the OST changes to PST, which can now be moved to a new computer.
(In Account Settings, under Data Files, select OST and press Open File Location.)
Note: For the transfer, you can use any external device or cloud storage, like Gmail, etc. Access it in Outlook again via Import/Export.
Optimal Utility to Open OST File on Another Computer
Since the manual method is a one-by-one file transfer solution, it becomes lengthy and time-consuming. So, why not use the OST to PST Converter Tool, i.e., an explicit tool to automatically convert data into multiple compatible formats with ease? The tool is highly secure and maintains complete data integrity, structure, and formatting. Additionally, it is perfect for both novice and techies to run the simple utility on all Mac and Windows OS versions.
How to Transfer Outlook Emails to New Computer Mac?
- Download and launch the OST File to PST Converter Software.
- Then, with any of the radio options, proceed to it with Next.
- Add your OSTs into the software’s wizard and click Next.
- Further, assess and pick up the folders needed from the tree.
- Click Next and opt for PST format. If needed, you can choose others.
- At last, set the target computer location and hit the Convert.
Manual Method vs. Automated Tool Comparison
| Features | Manual Method | Professional Tool |
| Process | Tiring and takes Time | Automatic and Quick |
| Data Security | Low | High |
| Bulk Conversion | Not Possible | Possible & no size limits |
| Outlook Installation | Needed | No Need |
| Customization Options | Limited | Many features available |
Apart from these, the professional tool to move OST file to new computer also has a demo version. With it, you can perform a few conversions for free without manual hassle.
Conclusion
Opening OST file on another computer is a major thing needed due to the limitation of OST accessibility. It is restricted to local use and cannot work outside the particular MS Outlook environment. This guide helped with two possible solutions that are easy to perform and give the desired results. However, for the manual method, you need technical knowledge, and there are cons as discussed above. Whereas, the professional tool is the best bet in all situations.
FAQ
Q. How to move OST files to another computer?
Ans- You can move Outlook OST file to new PC with an external drive like USB or via cloud transfer with Gmail. Since any direct import is not possible and anyhow you have to convert OST to PST.
Q. Can I move OST files to another hard drive?
Ans- Yes. You can store OSTs on a different hard drive, but they are of no use unless you convert them into another compatible format like PST, MBOX, CSV, or others. For it, the best way is to use the OST to PST Conversion Tool.
Q. Does this software support Windows 11?
Ans- Yes. The above-given OST to PST File Converter Tool works smoothly on all Windows versions, including the latest 11.
About The Author:
Suman Rawat is a technical content writer and expert in the fields of email migration, data recovery, and email backup. Her passion for helping people has led her to resolve many user queries related to data conversion and cloud backup.
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