In today’s digital world, managing emails and data effectively is crucial. One of the common file formats users often deal with is the Offline Storage Table (OST) file, primarily used by Microsoft Outlook. However, sometimes users need to convert their OST file to PDF for different reasons. But how can you safely and effectively perform this conversion? In this article, we will explore a free and safe solution to convert OST files to PDF.

What is an OST File?

An OST file is a local copy of mailbox data stored on the user’s computer, primarily used by Microsoft Outlook when connected to an Exchange Server. It allows users to access their emails, calendars, and other Outlook data offline. When the user is back online, any changes made are synchronized with the server. However, an OST file is not easily accessible outside of Outlook, and this often creates a need for conversion to more portable and universally readable formats like PDF.

Free and Safe Method to Convert OST to PDF

While there are many tools available online that promise to convert OST to PDF, it's essential to choose a free yet safe solution to ensure your data's security and privacy. One of the best free methods to convert OST files to PDF is by using free software tools that specifically designed to this purpose.

Step 1: Convert OST to PST

Since OST files are Outlook data files and can only be directly opened by Outlook, the first step in the conversion process is to convert your OST file into a Personal Storage Table (PST) file. Fortunately, this process can be done easily within Outlook without the need for any third-party tools. Here’s how:.

1. Proceed to the File tab after launching Microsoft Outlook.
2. Choose Import/Export after clicking on Open & Export.
3. Choose Export to a file and click Next.
4. Choose the OST file you wish to export, then select Outlook Data File (.pst).
5. Follow the prompts to save the new PST file.

Note- If you find manual method to convert OST file to PST tricky then you can also utilize fully automated OST to PST Converter.

Step 2: Convert PST to PDF

Once you have successfully converted your OST file to a PST file, the next step is converting the PST data to PDF. You can use free software or built-in Outlook functionality to perform this conversion:

Using Outlook: Outlook doesn’t natively support saving emails as PDFs, but you can open the PST file, then manually save individual emails as PDF. Simply open an email, click File, choose Print, and select the Microsoft Print to PDF option.

Third-Party Free Tools: There are several free tools available online that allow you to convert PST files to PDF. Tools like  PST to PDF Converter offer a free trial version. They allow users to extract emails from PST files and save them in PDF format.

Direct Solution to Convert OST to PDF

For users with large numbers of emails in their OST file, manual conversion can be time-consuming. In this situation, users can use OST to PDF Converter of OST2PST Wizard, which offer a batch conversion option, allowing you to select multiple emails and convert them at once. It is a reliable and safe tool that does not compromise the integrity of your data during conversion.

Why Is This Method Safe

This method is considered safe because:

• No Risk of Data Loss: Using Outlook for conversion ensures that no data is lost or altered in the process. 
• Secure Third-Party Tool: It is reputed and safe tool, which offer a safe environment to convert your files without risking malware.
• Offline Process: Since everything is done offline, there is no risk of sending your files over the internet to an untrustworthy third-party server.

Conclusion

Converting OST files to PDF is essential for many users who need to access, share, or archive their Outlook data. Manual method can be quiet complex and time consuming because users need to first convert OST to PST and then saving emails as PDFs. That’s why users can opt for professional OST to PDF Converter. This tool maintain the security and integrity of your data throughout the conversion process, offering new users a free trial version.