OST File Is Full? Fix the “OST File Too Large” Error Quickly

Furthermore, take a look at this query from a user worried about the OST file size issue:

Outlook OST File Too Large: What You Must Know

OST (Offline Storage Table) is an offline copy of Outlook’s cache exchange data stored on your OS locally. You can easily work on it without the internet, and the changes sync automatically when you go online. But Microsoft has some specified size limits for OST files to prevent performance degradation. These are:

• 2 GB for Outlook 2002 and earlier versions
• 20 GB for Outlook 2010 and earlier versions
• 50 GB for Outlook 2013 and later versions

Moving ahead, let’s understand the causes and symptoms of the Oversized OST File.

Reasons and Results of the OST File is Full Error

Why does the OST File Get Large?

• Accumulated cache mail data (emails, contacts, etc.) for many years locally.
• Stored media-heavy emails, shared files, and attachments within Outlook.
• Deleted items don’t necessarily free server space until the OST file compacts.
• Connecting multiple shared mailboxes and archives increases offline cache data volume.

What happens when the OST is Large?

• MS Outlook starts to hang or crash during startup or in between processes.
• Triggered “OST is in use and cannot be accessed” and “OST file size not reducing” errors.
• Blocked synchronization with the MS Exchange and IMAP servers for data transfer.
• Results in partial data loss, missing files, or OST corruption during the sync.

Furthermore, check out this “User Query ” for a similar issue:

How to Fix the OST File Too Large Issue?

If your Outlook OST has reached maximum size and you need an immediate resolution for it, then the best way is to use the advanced OST Splitter Tool. However, if you have time, then you can also try out some free methods to fix and resolve the issue manually. You can briefly understand all the available fixes in this section.

Troubleshoot the OST File Is Full Issue Free

If you are comfortable with the Outlook settings and well aware of its functions, then these manual fixes can help you free up storage without costs. The methods are:

1) Compact Outlook OST File

1. First, from your Outlook profile, open Account Settings under the File tab.
2. Then, from the Data Files tab, choose your OST and click Settings.
3. Further, in Advanced, move to Outlook Data File Settings.
4. There, click Compact Now. It will reduce your OST file size by compressing the unused storage space.

2) Reduce the Size of the Cache Mail

1. Within your Account Settings, double-click the email account with the OST file.
2. Then, adjust the slider for Mail to Keep Offline to a smaller duration (say, 6 months).
3. Finally, restart your Outlook profile to re-sync and manage the Outlook OST file too big.

3) Archive Old OST Emails

1. Within the Outlook File, move to the Tools and click on Cleanup Old Items.
2. Or, choose the Mailbox Cleanup >> Auto Archive to empty the space.

4) Empty Deleted Items Folder

1. Initially, clear your Deleted Items/Trash folder on a regular basis in Outlook.
2. Also, for emails with large attachments: either move them to OneDrive or delete those that are not needed.

5) Turn RSS Feed Off

1. In your Account Settings within Outlook, find RSS Feeds.
2. Then, Delete or Disable it.

Resolve OST File Is Full Issue Like A Pro

Manual cleanup processes are a temporary solution to reduce OST file size and resolve the issue. However, for deep structural issues, like when your Outlook starts to lag because of the size conflicts, an automated solution is needed. The SysInfo OST Splitter Tool helps compress bulk volumes of large OST files easily. Additionally, it has multiple split options for an OST file too large, removes duplicates, and works flawlessly on all versions of your Windows OS. Moreover, with its fast speed, efficiency, and precision, you can regain control over your data without loss and with no downtime in a minimal period.

Steps to Fix the Outlook OST File Too Big

1. Launch the OST File Splitter and click Add File/Add Folder as needed.
2. Then, choose the OST files from your system and click Open to load.
3. Tap Next. Further, choose the folders you want to split from the file.
4. Afterward, pick to Split by Size, Date, Sender, and Folders, and tap Next.
5. Later, apply the filters and click Choose to input a destination.
6. Finally, click the Split button to manage the Outlook OST file too large.

Now, you have regained control over your Outlook OST file successfully and smoothly.

Conclusion

Unfortunately, “OST file is full” is simply a warning from Outlook that it’s time to maintain the file. Ignoring this indication can lead to poor performance and syncs. In most cases, the first action required means cleaning and compacting manually. Although for an OST file that is corrupted, has sluggish performance, or is just too big, a professional fix means using an OST File Splitter to provide a fast and effective way to recover files.

FAQs

About The Author:

Suman Rawat

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.