Convert MSG to OST

Understanding MSG and OST file formats

MSG files are individual email message files created by Microsoft Outlook. Each MSG file contains a single email, including its attachments, metadata, and formatting. These files are commonly used for archiving or sharing specific emails.

OST files, or Offline Storage Table files, are used by Microsoft Outlook to store a synchronized copy of mailbox data from an Exchange server. OST files allow users to work offline and automatically sync changes when reconnected to the server. Unlike MSG, an OST file contains the entire mailbox, including emails, calendar items, contacts, and more.

Why convert MSG to OST?

Converting MSG to OST is useful when you need to import multiple individual email messages into an Outlook profile that uses an OST file, such as when migrating or consolidating emails into an Exchange or Office 365 account.

How to convert MSG to OST

Direct conversion from MSG to OST is not natively supported by Microsoft Outlook. The process involves importing MSG files into an Outlook profile connected to an Exchange or Office 365 account, which then updates the OST file automatically. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Open Microsoft Outlook with the profile connected to your Exchange or Office 365 account.
2. Drag and drop the MSG files into the desired folder (such as Inbox or a custom folder) within Outlook.
3. Outlook will import the messages, and the OST file will be updated with the new content.

This method ensures that all imported MSG emails are included in the OST file, which is managed by Outlook for offline access.

Best software for MSG to OST conversion

For bulk or automated conversion, specialized third-party tools can streamline the process. The best software for this task is SysTools MSG to Outlook Converter. This tool allows you to import multiple MSG files directly into an Outlook profile, which then updates the OST file accordingly.

Steps using SysTools MSG to Outlook Converter:

1. Install and launch SysTools MSG to Outlook Converter.
2. Add the folder containing your MSG files.
3. Select the destination Outlook profile connected to your Exchange or Office 365 account.
4. Click Export to import the MSG files. The OST file will be updated automatically.

Other reliable alternatives include Stellar Converter for MSG and KDETools MSG to PST Converter (followed by importing the PST into Outlook).

Summary

While there is no direct MSG to OST file conversion, importing MSG files into an Outlook profile connected to an Exchange or Office 365 account will update the OST file with the new emails. For bulk operations, use professional tools like SysTools MSG to Outlook Converter for efficient results.