Brief About - What is Outlook/Exchange OST File:

OST(offline storage table) files are created when Outlook is used in conjunction of Microsoft Exchange Server and cache exchange mode of Exchange Server is enabled. Microsoft Outlook's OST file allows user to work in downtime of exchange server so that users can work with their mailbox data even in downtime of Exchange Server. As soon as the server is connected, all the saved emails will be started updating with Exchange Server mailbox data. OST file is proving beneficial in the areas where network connection is very slow.

Working Process of OST File?

When Exchange Server's cache exchange mode is enabled, Outlook creates an exact copy of user mailbox on Exchange Server named as an offline folder with an extension of .ost format. Every change made while working offline is synchronized when connection with exchange server is established.

Try OST File Creation You'll Like It

(1) Select work offline mode from file menu while the connection between Microsoft Outlook and Exchange Server is established.

(2) All the data of mailboxes saved in Exchange Server automatically get copied to new offline storage table file and OST file is created.

(a)Collect all mailbox folders, calendars and other OST data for offline utilization. In order to select any other folder, then follow the instructions given below:

(b)Go through Tools menu >Send/Receive > Send/Receive Settings > Define Send/Receive Groups.

(c)Under Accounts, choose your Exchange account.

(3) In the Folders option, select the folders that you want to use Offline.

It's wise to use OST file in downtime of Exchange Server, so that you can continue with your work without a secure connection.OST files are widely used when users have to work in offline mode, i.e. without a secure connection.

Final Conclusion:

If an OST file is corrupted or having an accidental mailbox deletion, OST file serves as a backup of your previous important email items. Users can also Microsoft Exchange OST Converter and split larger PST file according to their convenience.