Description

where are outlook pst files stored ?

# Where Are Outlook PST Files Stored?

When you use Microsoft Outlook to manage your email, contacts, and calendar, it stores your data in Personal Storage Table (PST) files. Knowing where these files are located can be crucial for tasks such as backing up your data, migrating it to a new computer, or restoring it from a backup. This blog post will guide you through the typical locations of PST files in different versions of Microsoft Outlook, from 2007 to 2016, and provide helpful advice on how to find and manage them.

## PST File Locations for Different Versions of Outlook

### Outlook 2007 and 2010
For Outlook 2007 and 2010, the default location where PST files are stored is within the AppData folder. The exact path to the PST files would be:

`C:UsersAppDataLocalMicrosoftOutlook`

Where “ is your actual Windows user account name. You might need to enable the display of hidden folders in your file explorer to locate AppData, as it is normally hidden by default.

### Outlook 2013 and 2016
Starting with Outlook 2013, Microsoft shifted the default location of PST files to the Documents folder. The new default location is as follows:

`C:UsersDocumentsOutlook Files`

If you upgraded Outlook 2013 or 2016 to a newer version or if you are using a computer that already has PST files from a previous version, you might find them in the following locations:

– `C:UsersAppDataLocalMicrosoftOutlook`
– `C:Documents and SettingsLocal SettingsApplication DataMicrosoftOutlook` (for older versions of Windows)

It’s also worth noting that Outlook stores Offline Outlook Data Files (OST) in the same locations as PST files, regardless of the Outlook version.

## Changing the Location of Outlook PST Files

While the above paths are the default locations for PST files, you can actually move them to a different location if required or desired. Here’s how you can change the PST file location:

1. **Open Outlook**.
2. Go to `File` > `Account Settings` > `Data Files`.
3. Select the PST file you want to move, then click `Settings`.
4. Click `Advanced` under the `Delivery` tab, and click `Change Folder`.
5. Choose the new location for your PST file and click `OK`.

Moving the file does not delete it from its original location. Ensure that you are connecting to the correct file after moving it.

## Accessing PST Files in Windows 11
The process for finding PST files in Windows 11 is similar to that in Windows 10. For Outlook 2016 and newer:

– The files are located in `C:UsersDocumentsOutlook Files`.

For older versions of Outlook:

– The files can be found in `C:UsersAppDataLocalMicrosoftOutlook`.

Remember to replace “ with your actual Windows username.

## Additional Resources

– [How to find an OST or PST data file in Microsoft Outlook](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/find-and-transfer-outlook-data-files-from-one-computer-to-another-0996ece3-57c6-49bc-977b-0d1892e2aacc)
– [Where to find your PST files in Outlook](https://www.thewindowsclub.com/location-of-outlook-pst-file)
– [How to move or copy a .pst file](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/move-or-copy-a-pst-file-fd573507-4539-4491-8974-c406ad4c7193)
– [How to find your Outlook PST file in Windows 10](https://www.keys.direct/blogs/guides/where-are-outlook-pst-files-stored-windows-10/)

## Troubleshooting Tips

– **Hidden Folders**: If you’re unable to find the AppData folder, you might need to show hidden folders in your file explorer:
1. Go to `File` > `Options` in File Explorer.
2. Select `View` from the sidebar.
3. Check the `Hidden items` option.

– **Backup Your PST Files**: Before moving your PST files, consider creating a backup of your current setup. This can help you restore your data if something goes amiss during the migration process.

## Conclusion
Understanding where and how to find your Outlook PST files can save you a lot of time and stress. It’s a good practice to periodically check the size of these files and manage their storage effectively to avoid issues with running out of disk space and to ensure your data is safe and secure. Remember to adjust the file location if necessary, and always keep your data backed up.

If you encounter any trouble locating or managing your PST files, consider consulting the official Microsoft documentation or seeking support from a professional. Happy managing!

Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions or additional tips to share!