Download Buy Now

What is an encrypted Outlook OST file?

Outlook OST files are local cached copies of the mailbox data on the Exchange server. All changes in the Exchange server are synced with the OST file when Outlook connects to the server. The security of the data is paramount in such synchronization operations and as a result, the OST file is inherently encrypted with a MAPIEntryID GUID key. If you want to access your data or emails you must convert the OST file to a PST file. However, an OST file can also be encrypted using the Outlook's account settings feature, preventing data mishandling. In such cases, passwords are required before accessing the data. These encrypted Outlook database files are susceptible to corruption, rendering the email data inaccessible.

Export encrypted OST files to PST

In certain situations, it may become necessary to extract and convert the OST file to access the stored email data. This could occur due to a variety of reasons, such as file corruption, email backup, or inaccessible Exchange server mailboxes. However, extracting data from an OST file can become a challenging task, particularly when the file is created by an older version of MS Outlook.

The following are the reasons for OST file corruption

Abrupt Network Interruption: Suppose you are in the process of syncing OST files with the Exchange server and suddenly, a connected network device experiences malfunction or shuts down. This unexpected breakdown can corrupt the OST files.
Large-Sized OST Files: Large-sized OST files should be managed and should be exported to a more portable form such as PST files. An oversized OST file can become corrupted when retained for a long term.
Other reasons: There are few more reasons for the OST corruption such as virus infection, malware attacks, ransomware threats to the computer, data storage device failures, internal issues, incompatible Outlook plugins, faulty updates, Outlook crashes and more.

Recover encrypted OST file and convert OST to PST

With the EdbMails OST to PST conversion solution, you can recover encrypted OST files and convert OST to PST file. The application uses advanced algorithms that can recover encrypted OST files and export them to PST without any data loss. The tool can also recover OST files that are password protected and encrypted using standard encryption techniques. EdbMails supports the recovery and export of OST files from all Outlook versions including 2021, 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010, 2007 and 2003.