Offline Outlook Data File (.ost)

Most other account types, such as IMAP accounts, Office 365 accounts, Exchange accounts, and Outlook.com accounts use an Offline Outlook Data File (.ost) file to store a synchronized copy of your mailbox information on your local computer. When your connection to the mail server is interrupted, for example, when you're on an airplane without WiFi or if your internet connection disconnects, you can still access all emails, calendar data, contacts, and tasks that have been previously downloaded. You can read and compose messages, create appointments, and add contacts. However, your email messages won't be sent and no new messages will be downloaded until your internet connection is restored.

When the connection is restored, changes are automatically synchronized, and the folders and items on the server and on your computer are identical again.

File locations

The fastest way to open the folder where your Outlook Data Files (.pst and .ost) are saved is to do the following:

  1. In Outlook, click the File tab.
  2. In right pane, click Account Settings, and then click Account Settings.
  3. On the Data Files tab, click an entry, and then click Open Folder Location.

Outlook Data Files (.pst) created by using Outlook 2013 or Outlook 2016 are typically saved on your computer in the DocumentsOutlook Files folder. If you upgraded to Outlook on a computer that already had data files that were created in Microsoft Office Outlook 2007 or earlier, these files are saved in a different location in a hidden folder at drive:UsersuserAppDataLocalMicrosoftOutlook.

Tip: If your Outlook Data File (.pst) becomes large it can slow down your OneDrive sync and may show 'Processing changes' or 'A file is in use'. Learn How to remove an Outlook .pst data file from OneDrive.
Outlook 2016 data file location windows 10

The offline Outlook Data File (.ost) is also saved at drive:UsersuserAppDataLocalMicrosoftOutlook. Most data remains on the server; however, any items that are saved locally should be backed up. For example, Calendar, Contacts, Tasks, and any folders marked Local only.

Tip: For information about hidden folders in Windows, see Windows Help and Support.

Related Topics

Create an Outlook Data File (.pst) to save your information
Import email, contacts, and calendar from an Outlook .pst file
Repair Outlook Data Files (.pst and .ost)