How to open a PST file with and without Outlook

PST files are used by Microsoft Outlook to store emails, contacts, calendars, and other user data. However, many people encounter difficulties when opening these files, either because they have changed computers, lost access to Outlook, or simply need to access their content in an alternative way. In this detailed guide, we will explain how to open a PST file both with and without Outlook using different methods.

Throughout the article, you will learn how open these files directly in Outlook, how to access its content without this program and what alternatives exist to view its content. We will also discuss possible problems that may arise and how to solve them.

What is a PST file and what is it used for?

A PST file (Personal Storage Table) is a format that stores all the information an email account in Outlook locally. This includes emails, calendar events, tasks, notes, and contacts. Its main function is to allow users to manage and backup emails without relying on an online server.

How to open a PST file in Outlook

If you have access to Microsoft Outlook, opening a PST file is a simple process. Follow these steps:

1. Open Microsoft Outlook on your computer.
2. Click on the tab Archive on top.
3. Choose Open and export and then choose Open Outlook data file.
4. Browse to the location where the PST file is located and select it.
5. Click on Open and it will automatically appear in the Outlook sidebar.

From this moment, you can access the emails and other items stored in the PST file.

Alternatives to open a PST file without Outlook

In case you do not have Outlook installed or you want to access PST data without this program, there are several options:

Convert PST file to TXT format

A simple option is convert emails stored in the PST to plain text format:

• Select the PST file you want to convert.
• Click on Archive > Save as.
• Choose the option to save in format TXT.
• Save the file in the desired location.

Once converted, the file can be viewed with any text editor.

Convert PST file to MSG format

The MSG format is another alternative for access emails without Outlook:

• Open Outlook and select the desired email.
• Drag the email to your desktop or a folder.
• The mail will be saved in MSG format, which can be opened with various third party programs.

Save PST file in HTML format

Another useful solution is convert emails in HTML format, allowing them to be viewed from any location Web navigator:

• Open Outlook and select an email.
• Click on Archive > Save as.
• Select HTML format and save the file to an accessible location.

Import emails from a PST to Gmail

If you want to access your emails more flexibly, you can import the PST content to a Gmail account using the tool Google GAMMO:

1. Download and open the Google GAMMO tool.
2. Select the PST file and choose the data you want to import.
3. Click on Migrate and wait for the content to be transferred to your Gmail account.

Using a free PST file viewer

There are multiple Free that allow you to open PST files without needing Outlook. Some of the most recommended ones are:

• Kernel Outlook PST Viewer: allows you to view the contents of PST files, even if they are corrupted.
• SysTools PST Viewer: a free tool that allows you to open and read emails stored in PST files.

To use this type of tool, simply download the application, select the PST file and access its contents easily.

Tips for working with PST files

• You cannot edit a PST file while it is open in Outlook. To copy or move it, close Outlook first.
• If Outlook does not find a PST file, a message appears asking you to select the new location.
• Always perform backup from your PST files to avoid data loss in case of hard drive problems.
• Use PST files as storage additional to avoid saturating the mail server.

PST files are essential for managing emails in Outlook, but there are many ways to access their content without Outlook. From conversion methods to viewing tools, there are options for every need. If you use Microsoft Outlook, opening a PST file is quick and easy, but if you don't have it, you can turn to alternatives such as free viewers or importing to Gmail. The most important thing is to choose the method that best suits your needs and make sure you keep backups of your data.