Does AI works?

I ask Copilet: how to read the outlook .ost file

Copilet answers:

Method 1: Using Microsoft Outlook

1. Open Microsoft Outlook:
   • Launch Outlook on your computer.
2. Navigate to the File Menu:
   • Click on File in the top menu.
3. Open & Export:
   • Select Open & Export and then click on Open Outlook Data File.
4. Select the .ost File:
   • Browse to the location of your .ost file, select it, and click OK.

Outlook will now display the contents of the .ost file, allowing you to read and manage your email data¹.

Method 2: Converting .ost to .pst

If you need to access the .ost file without Outlook or want to move the data to another system, you can convert the .ost file to a .pst file using third-party tools. Here’s a general approach:

1. Download a Conversion Tool:
   • Tools like Advik OST Converter or Stellar Converter for OST can help convert .ost files to .pst format.
2. Install and Run the Tool:
   • Follow the installation instructions and launch the tool.
3. Select the .ost File:
   • Use the tool to browse and select your .ost file.
4. Convert to .pst:
   • Follow the tool’s instructions to convert the .ost file to a .pst file.
5. Import the .pst File into Outlook:
   • Open Outlook, go to File > Open & Export > Import/Export.
   • Choose Import from another program or file and select Outlook Data File (.pst).
   • Browse to the converted .pst file and import it.

Method 3: Using OST Viewer Tools

There are free OST viewer tools available that allow you to open and read .ost files without Outlook. Here’s how to use one:

1. Download an OST Viewer Tool:
   • Tools like DRS OST Viewer or Kernel OST Viewer are available for free.
2. Install and Run the Tool:
   • Follow the installation instructions and launch the tool.
3. Open the .ost File:
   • Use the tool to browse and open your .ost file.
4. View the Contents:
   • The tool will display the contents of the .ost file, allowing you to read your emails and other data.

I said: the “Method 1” is wrong, are you mess up something?

Copilet answers:

I apologize for the confusion. You’re right; Outlook doesn’t allow direct opening of .ost files. Instead, .ost files are typically used by Outlook to store data for Exchange, Office 365, or IMAP accounts and are not meant to be opened directly. Here’s the correct approach:

Accessing .ost File Data

Method 1: Reconnect to the Original Account

• Reconnect to the Exchange or Office 365 Account: If you still have access to the original email account, you can reconnect Outlook to the account, and it will automatically use the .ost file to sync your data.