Where Is Outlook OST File Location in Win 11? Learn More Now!

If you're an Outlook user on Windows 11, you may have wondered about the location of Outlook OST (Offline Storage Table) file. Whether you're troubleshooting, managing data, or backing up important information, knowing where the OST file is stored is essential. This file plays a key role in allowing you to work offline and sync with your email server when you're back online.

In this guide, we'll explain where is the OST file located and how to find, change Outlook OST file location in Win 11, and even recover lost OST file using AnyRecover. Keep reading to find the answer.

When & Why Do You Need to Know Outlook OST File Location?

The OST file in Outlook is where your mailbox data is stored locally when you're using a Microsoft Exchange, IMAP, or Office 365 account. It’s important to know where the OST file is located because:

• Troubleshooting Email Errors: If Outlook isn't syncing correctly or you're facing issues with email downloads, locating the OST file can help you identify and fix the problem.
• Backup and Recovery: If you need to back up or recover your mailbox, knowing the location of Outlook OST file can save time and effort.
• File Management: If you want to optimize your storage, you might want to change the default OST file location or move it to a different drive.
• Migrating to a New System: You might need the OST file while moving Outlook data to a new computer.

Now, let's look at how you can find the Outlook OST file location in Win 11.

How to Find Outlook OST File Location in Windows 11

There are several ways you can locate your Outlook OST file in Windows 11, including File Explorer, Outlook Settings, and Control Panel. Next, we'll introduce them one by one. No matter which one you choose, it is certain that you can locate OST file in minutes.

1Using File Explorer

Open File Explorer (Windows + E) on your Windows 11 PC.

Navigate to the following default folder locations where the OST file is usually stored:

• C:\Users\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Outlook
• C:\Users\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Outlook

Here, you should find the .ost file named after your email account or profile.

If you can't see the AppData folder, make sure to enable hidden files and folders in File Explorer:

Click View in the top menu of File Explorer, select Show, and then choose Hidden items.

2Using Outlook Settings

Open Outlook.

Go to File > Account Settings > Account Settings.

Click on the Data Files tab.

In the list of data files, select your account and click Open File Location. This will open the folder containing your OST file directly.

3Using Control Panel

Open the Control Panel on your PC (search for it in the Start Menu).

Navigate to Mail > Email Accounts.

Select your account and click on Data Files.

This will show you the location of your .ost file, and you can click Open File Location to directly access the folder.

How to Change the Location of Outlook OST File

If you want to change the default location of your Outlook OST file (perhaps to a different drive to free up space on your system disk), you can follow these steps:

Open Outlook and click on File > Account Settings > Account Settings.

BIn the Data Files tab, select the account for which you want to change the OST file location.

Click Settings and then choose Change Folder.

Browse to the new location where you want the OST file to be stored and select it.

Click OK to confirm your changes.

You'll need to restart Outlook for the changes to take effect. Keep in mind that Outlook will now store all offline data in this new location.

Safe and Quick Way to Recover Deleted Outlook OST File

Losing access to your Outlook OST file can be a serious issue, especially if it contains important emails and contacts. In cases of accidental deletion or corruption, AnyRecover can help you recover your deleted or lost OST file quickly and securely.

To recover your OST file using AnyRecover, follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Install AnyRecover on your PC. Launch the software and choose the PC data recovery mode.

Step 2: Select the location where your OST file was stored (e.g., the folder listed above in File Explorer).

Step 3: Initiate the scan, preview the recovered files, and restore your OST file to a safe location.

With AnyRecover's help, you can easily recover your deleted Outlook OST file and restore it without the risk of permanent data loss.

FAQ About Outlook OST File Location

1Where is Outlook OST file location in Windows 10?

The location of the OST file in Windows 10 is similar to Windows 11. You can typically find it in:

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

2.OST file vs .PST file vs .NST file: What’s the Difference?

The .OST, .PST, and .NST files are all Outlook data files, but they serve different purposes:

• OST (Offline Storage Table): This file is used when you are working with Exchange, IMAP, or Office 365 accounts. It allows you to work offline and sync your data when you're online again. It's created automatically when you configure an Outlook account for the first time.
• PST (Personal Storage Table): This file stores all your personal data, including emails, contacts, calendars, and tasks. It is typically used for POP3 accounts or when users want to archive their data locally. PST files are often larger and can be stored anywhere on your system.
• NST (Navigation Store Table): This file is used by Outlook for storing your navigation data, such as the folder structure and settings. This file is not something users typically interact with but is important for Outlook's internal processes.

3Can I move my Outlook OST file to a different drive?

Yes, you can move your Outlook OST file to a different drive. Outlook allows you to change the location of the OST file by following the steps mentioned above under "How to Change the Location of Outlook OST File".

4How can I back up the OST file in Windows 11?

To back up your OST file in Windows 11, you can simply copy the file from its default location and paste it into your backup drive or cloud storage. For added security, you can also use a backup software to schedule regular backups of your Outlook data.

Final Words

In conclusion, knowing the location of Outlook OST file will give you greater control over your Outlook data and peace of mind. Whether through File Explorer, Outlook settings, or Control Panel, you can easily find Outlook OST file location in Win 11, which is important for troubleshooting, backing up data, and managing your Outlook setup.

Additionally, if you accidentally lose or delete your OST file, tools like AnyRecover can help you quickly recover it, ensuring that your important email data is safe.