3 steps to open file with OST extension
Usually solving problems with OST file is simple – just install proper software and open the file. Read the guide and open OST file now!
OST File Extension
- File type Outlook Offline Folder Format
- File developer Microsoft
- File category Misc Files
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File popularity rating
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What is a(n) OST file?
The Outlook Offline Folder File (OST) is a Microsoft Exchange Server data file used to connect Outlook clients to an Exchange Server computer. It allows users to work in an Exchange environment when they are not connected to the server, by storing copies of their inbox, contacts, calendar events, and other mailbox data locally.
OST files are encrypted and can only be opened with an email client that has been configured to connect to an Exchange Server. They can be used to back up mailbox data including messages, contacts, attachments, and user preference settings. As such, they are essential for archiving Outlook data for future use.
How to open OST file?
There could be multiple reasons for which the system does not support given file. In the case of OST extension, it is probable that none of the installed programs support given file type. Therefore, user should undertake the following steps
Step 1: Install a program that supports OST files
If an application that supports OST files is installed on user’s system, but is not used to open such files by default, right-click on the file icon and choose "Open with" option from the menu. Next, select the proper application and check the "Always use the selected application to open this kind of files" box. The system will store this information in its registry and use the selected program to open files with OST extension by default.
Hint for Mac OS users
For Mac OS users the procedure is analogous – open the file menu by right-clicking on the OST file and choose "Information" option and select "Open with program" option. From the submenu select an application and click on "Change all" button.
Step 2: Find and download proper software
Inability to open OST files may also be related to the lack of any application that supports given file being installed on the system. Should that be the case, user needs to download and install one of the following applications. Once installed, the system will automatically associate newly installed application with OST files. If this step fails, see step 1.
Programs that support files with OST extension
Step 3: Check the OST file for errors
Sometimes, although relatively rarely, steps 1 and 2 might not lead to expected results. There can be several reasons for such situation to occur:
- OST file has been downloaded from the internet but for some reason it is incomplete. In such case the file should be re-downloaded and opened again.
- Structure of given OST file could be corrupted and as such the program is not able to open the file
- Storage medium on which the file was stored is damaged
- It is important to ascertain that the icon representing given file is not a shortcut a related OST file no longer present in the location to which the shortcut points
- If the user account has restricted access privileges it is advised to contact the system administrator or an IT expert
