Quick Guide to Convert OST to EML Files

The email data is stored locally in OST files, but the Outlook license has expired. Accessing an OST file is impossible as they are exclusive to Outlook. Therefore, they need to convert OST to EML to access them. Converting them to EML files makes them compatible with a wide range of email clients. So, what steps are involved in converting OST to EML? This blog will assist you in this conversion. We will discuss manual ways and the automated way by using a specialized Cigati OST to PST Converter. This converter will convert the files in EML format efficiently and securely. 

Reasons to Convert OST File to EML

OST to EML conversion enhances usability, easy sharing, and compatibility in cases such as email migration. The following are the reasons why users convert their OST files to the EML file format:

• An unexpected crash caused by the Exchange server can lead to serious system failures. This makes OST files inaccessible in Outlook. 
• Unlike OST files, EML files can be shared across systems and devices, making them ideal for collaborative or remote communication.
• By saving OST data as EML files, users can prevent data loss in case of sudden hardware or software issues. 
• To ensure cross-platform usability and flexibility, converting OST to a widely supported EML format is essential. 

How to Convert OST to EML? [2 Proven Methods]

There are two primary methods for performing OST to EML conversion. One is a manual method that needs to be done using IMAP, Thunderbird, and Outlook. However, for a faster, more efficient, and error-free transfer process, opt for a professional conversion tool. Let’s start with the manual methods first.

Manually Export Outlook OST Files to EML Using IMAP, Outlook, Thunderbird

This method will work only when the OST file is still connected to the Exchange Server or Outlook profile. The OST file should be accessible in Outlook. Also, a Gmail account should be configured as IMAP in the Outlook application.

Step 1: Copy OST Emails to Gmail in Outlook

1. Open the Outlook application.
2. Ensure that your Gmail account is configured as IMAP and is displayed in the side panel.
3. Now, drag and drop the desired emails or folders from the OST mailbox to the Gmail account folder.

Step 2: Configure the Same Gmail Account in Thunderbird

1. First, open the Thunderbird application on your desktop.
2. Then, click on the Menu icon > Account Settings > Add Mail Account.
3. Enter your Gmail Email ID and Password. Then, select IMAP.
4. Now, fill in the IMAP server details:

Incoming Mail Server	Server: imap.gmail.com
	Port: 993
	Encryption: SSL/TLS
Outgoing Mail Server	Server: smtp.gmail.com
	Port: 587
	Encryption: SSL/TLS

5. Click on Re-test > Done > Finish. 

Step 3: Export Email from Thunderbird as EML Files

1. Navigate to the folder containing your OST emails.
2. Select the email(s) that you want to convert to EML.
3. After selecting them, right-click on them and choose Save As > EML Format.
4. Then, select a folder to save the emails. 

Limitations: This method does not work with corrupt or orphaned OST files. The synchronization process may take a considerable amount of time when managing large mailboxes. Some formatting and metadata might not get transferred properly.

When an OST File is orphaned or it is no longer linked to its Outlook profile or Exchange Server, manual methods do not work. The only solution is to use a specialized OST Converter. 

A Specialized Way to Convert OST to EML in Batch

The OST to EML Converter tool is designed to help users convert their OST file into an accessible format like EML and more. It enables users to preview their mailbox data before conversion. With support for batch processing, the tool ensures efficient handling of multiple OST files while preserving data integrity. The tool also detects and eliminates duplicate emails using multiple fields. Moreover, it allows users to split oversized PST files to prevent corruption and improve manageability. Plus, the utility provides the flexibility to exclude attachments, apply date filters, and export to various formats. 

Quick and simple steps to begin converting OST files to EML:

1. Download, install, and run the tool.
2. Now, choose between Single File or Multiple Files/Folders and click on Next.
3. Then, browse the OST File that you want to convert and open it to load it.
4. Afterwards, tick and expand the tree structure. Select the folders and click on Next to continue.
5. Under the Saves/Backup/Migrate As tab, choose EML as the saving file format. 
6. Choose the optional features if required and select the path to save your file.
7. At last, click on the Convert button to start the process.

Conclusion

Converting OST to EML is an essential task for Outlook users. One of the effective methods is using Outlook, Thunderbird, and IMAP migration. This process requires advanced technical skills and proper setup. For those looking for a more direct way to convert OST to EML, choose the professional automated converter tool. It simplifies the process and is a more reliable, efficient, and error-free choice. In the end, choose the best method according to your requirements.

You May Also Read: Convert OST to MSG

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