Where Are Outlook Ost Files Stored?

Are you an Outlook user struggling to locate your Outlook ost file? Do you have a need to access your Outlook data but don’t know where the ost file is stored? Look no further—in this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to locating Outlook ost files, no matter the version of Outlook you are using.

What Is An Outlook Ost File?

An Outlook OST file is a type of Outlook Data File used to store email messages, calendar events, contacts, tasks, and other Outlook items. It is an offline version of a user’s Exchange mailbox, stored on a computer’s hard drive or other storage device. OST files are used when Outlook is configured to use an Exchange server account and the user has enabled the Cached Exchange Mode.

The Cached Exchange Mode allows Outlook to store a local copy of the user’s Exchange mailbox on the computer. This local copy allows Outlook to work in an offline mode, and then it synchronizes the mailbox data with the Exchange server when an Internet connection is established.

What Is The Purpose Of An Outlook OST File?

The purpose of an Outlook OST file is to allow the user to access their mailbox data while they are not connected to the Exchange server. This is especially useful when the user is traveling or working remotely. It also helps to reduce the load on the Exchange server by storing data locally.

The OST file also stores the user’s Outlook settings, such as views, rules, signatures, and other preferences. This allows the user to access their mailbox data and settings, even when they are not connected to the Exchange server.

Where Are Outlook OST Files Stored?

The location of Outlook OST files varies depending on the version of Outlook and the operating system. In most cases, the OST file is stored on the computer’s local drive.

For Outlook 2019, 2016, and 2013 on Windows 10, 8, or 7, the default location of the OST file is:

C:\Users\username\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Outlook

For Outlook 2019, 2016, and 2013 on Mac OS X, the default location of the OST file is:

/Users/username/Library/Group Containers/UBF8T346G9.Office/Outlook/

For Outlook 2010 on Windows, the default location of the OST file is:

C:\Users\username\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Outlook

For Outlook 2007 on Windows, the default location of the OST file is:

C:\Documents and Settings\username\Local Settings\Application Data\Microsoft\Outlook

Few Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is an Outlook OST file?

An Outlook OST file is an offline storage file used to store a copy of the user’s Exchange mailbox. Outlook OST files are used to enable Outlook users to access their emails, contacts, appointments, and other data stored on their Exchange server when offline.

Q2. How is an Outlook OST file created?

An Outlook OST file is automatically created when you configure an Exchange account in Outlook and select the option to work offline. The file will be created in the same directory as your PST file.

Q3. Where are Outlook OST files stored?

Outlook OST files are stored in the same folder as your PST files. The default location for the PST file is C:\Documents and Settings\UserName\Local Settings\Application Data\Microsoft\Outlook. The OST file will be stored in the same folder.

Q4. Can Outlook OST files be moved?

Yes, Outlook OST files can be moved to a different location, however, it is important to note that the OST file must be moved to the same folder as the PST file in order for Outlook to be able to access the data stored in the OST file.

Q5. Can Outlook OST files be backed up?

Yes, Outlook OST files can be backed up. It is important to back up Outlook OST files to ensure that the data stored in the OST file is not lost in the event of a system failure or other disaster.

Q6. Are Outlook OST files secure?

Outlook OST files are secure and encrypted by default. The encryption used is determined by the server settings and is not something that can be changed by the user. Additionally, Outlook OST files are password protected to ensure that only authorized users can access the data stored in the OST file.

How To Find Outlook Data Files Location (.pst and .ost) Windows 10 || Microsoft Outlook

In conclusion, Outlook OST files are stored on your local computer and are used to store your data from Outlook when you’re working offline. They are typically stored in the “Local Settings” folder of your computer, but the exact folder may vary depending on your version of Windows. It’s important to note that OST files are not compatible with other email clients, and they are not meant to be shared. If you need to transfer your Outlook data to another computer, you should use the “Export” function in Outlook.