Handling email data can be tricky, especially when you're changing email programs. For example, if you use Microsoft Outlook, you'll know about OST files. They save your emails so you can see them offline. But, if you want to switch to a different email program like Mozilla Thunderbird or Apple Mail, you'll run into a problem because they use a different file type called MBOX.
Both OST and MBOX are important for their respective email programs, but they're not compatible with each other. So, if you're moving from Outlook to a program that uses MBOX, you'll have to change your OST files into MBOX format. This might sound tough, but this blog post is here to help make it easier for you. It'll guide you through the steps to convert your files so you can start using your new email program without any trouble.
Why Convert OST to MBOX?
OST file basics: OST, or Offline Storage Table, is a file type used by Microsoft Outlook. It's like a copy of your mailbox on the Exchange Server, but stored on your computer. This setup lets you read and write emails even when you're not connected to the internet. Once you reconnect, Outlook updates your mailbox on the server with any changes you made while offline.
Sensitivity to corruption: OST files have a downside - they can be prone to corruption. This means they can get damaged easily, which might lead to loss of email data or difficulty in accessing your emails.
Compatibility issues: Here's a key point - OST files are specific to Outlook. This means they aren't compatible with other email clients. So, if you decide to switch from Outlook to another email program like Mozilla Thunderbird, Apple Mail, Eudora, or Entourage, you can't directly use your existing OST files with these programs.
Need for conversion to MBOX: This is where MBOX format comes in. MBOX is a more universal file type used by many email clients other than Outlook. To use the emails stored in your OST file with these other email clients, you need to convert them into MBOX format. By doing this, you make sure your emails can be read and managed in the new email program you choose to use.
So, in summary, converting OST to MBOX is necessary if you're moving from Outlook to another email client, want to avoid the risk of OST file corruption, and ensure that your emails are accessible and usable in your new email program.
How to convert OST to MBOX?
Converting OST to MBOX can be achieved through both manual methods and third-party software solutions. We'll delve into both options below.
Method 1: Import OST to Thunderbird
In this method, we will first convert the OST file used by Microsoft Outlook into a PST file. Afterward, we will import this PST file into Mozilla Thunderbird. The process involves a series of actions within both Outlook and Thunderbird.
Step 1: Convert OST to PST
This step is all about converting the OST file into a PST format using MS Outlook.
- Launch MS Outlook.
- Go to the File menu and click on the Open & Export option.
- Select the Import/Export option, choose Export to a file from Import and Export Wizard, and click on the Next button.
- Select Outlook Data File (.pst) from Export to a File window and click on the Next button.
- Select folders which you want to Export and click on the Next button.
- Provide a path to save PST and select the include subfolder checkbox.
- Click on the Finish button.
- Set Password and click on OK (optional).
Step 2: Import PST to Thunderbird
Now, we'll move the PST file into Mozilla Thunderbird.
- Launch Outlook.
- Make Outlook the default program for email.
- Launch Mozilla Thunderbird.
- Go to the Tools and select the Import option.
- From the Import window, select Mail and click on the Next button.
- Select Outlook and click on the Next button to start the import process.
- Once the Import process complete, then imported emails will be displayed.
- Click on the Finish button.
After the import process, all emails will be stored in the Outlook Import folder under the Local Folders directory.
Note: This method can be quite time-consuming and may require some technical know-how. If Thunderbird doesn't find the emails to import, or if the process seems too complex, using a third-party OST to MBOX converter might be a more efficient solution.
Convert OST to MBOX using OST to MBOX Converter
If you're searching for a simple and straightforward way to convert your OST files to MBOX format, the SysCurve OST Converter tool is an excellent choice. This tool is renowned for its ease of use and risk-free conversion process, making it ideal for anyone, regardless of their technical background.
- Download and install the software.
- Open OST Converter and click on the Add file option to select OST.
- Click on the Ok button to start the loading process.
- After the process, the software will manage your data and create a preview mode inside the software window.
- Click on the Export option and select the Export All folders option.
- Choose Single MBOX for each OST file or Separate MBOX file for each folder as an Export option and provide a location to save the log file
- Provide a destination path to save the resultant file and click on the Next button to convert OST to MBOX.
Other helpful features
- Convert OST to MBOX, PST, MSG, EML, EMLX, HTML, MHTML format.
- Import OST to Office 365 and Live Exchange Server.
- Generate a complete preview of your data inside the software dashboard.
- Quickly scan and repairs the corrupted or damaged OST files.
- Maintain the metadata properties like To, From, Subject, Cc, Bcc, etc.
- Support all versions of MS Outlook, including 2019.
- Support all Windows OS like Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7, etc.
- Free OST to MBOX conversion for the first 20 items from each folder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I convert a damaged OST to MBOX?
Yes, the SysCurve OST Converter tool can process and recover data from damaged OST files, then convert the recovered data to MBOX format.
How to open converted MBOX file in Thunderbird?
To open MBOX files in Thunderbird, follow the steps below.
- Start Thunderbird and click on Tools.
- Select ImportExportTools and choose Import MBOX file.
- In the MBOX Import window, choose the 'Import directly one or more MBOX files' option, and click OK.
- Select the MBOX files you want to import.
- Click on the Open button to start the import process.
Can I convert OST to Apple Mail using this software?
Yes, the SysCurve OST to MBOX Converter can convert OST files to the MBOX format, which is compatible with Apple Mail. After conversion, you can import the MBOX files into Apple Mail easily.
Does the SysCurve OST Converter tool support batch conversion?
Yes, the software supports batch conversion, allowing you to convert multiple OST files to MBOX format simultaneously, saving time and effort.
Is it possible to preview emails before conversion?
Yes, SysCurve OST Converter tool offers a preview feature where you can view your emails before converting them. This helps ensure that you're converting the correct data.
How does the tool handle email attachments during conversion?
The SysCurve OST to MBOX Converter preserves all attachments during the conversion process, ensuring no data loss for attachments in your emails.
Can I convert selective items from my OST file?
Yes, the software allows for selective conversion, enabling you to choose specific emails or folders within the OST file for conversion.
Will the converted MBOX files retain the original email folder structure?
Yes, the conversion process maintains the original folder hierarchy, ensuring that your emails are organized in the same way as they were in the OST file.
How long does the conversion process typically take?
The duration of the conversion process depends on the size of the OST file and the performance of your computer. However, the SysCurve OST File Converter is designed for efficient processing, so conversions are generally quick.
The Final Word
Switching from Outlook to other email clients like Thunderbird or Apple Mail is much easier than it seems, especially when it comes to converting OST to MBOX files. The SysCurve OST Converter is a great tool for this job. It's quick, simple to use, and it safely turns your OST files into MBOX format without any hassle. With this tool, you can easily access your important emails in a range of different email programs. Managing your emails doesn't have to be complicated - with the right tool, it's a smooth and straightforward task.
