Outlook remains one of the most popular email tools used by professionals and organizations around the globe. Transitioning from Outlook to Gmail—or needing to work with OST files stored offline—presents challenges, as OST files are not compatible with Gmail. Gmail works with cloud-stored files such as MBOX and OST files are not directly supported.
The most seamless approach to solving this problem would be to first convert OST files to PST format and subsequently import the PST file into the Gmail account employing Google Workspace tools. This blog will walk you through the complete process with the help of MyDigiSoft OST to PST Converter—an intuitive and efficient tool designed to facilitate OST conversions and streamline access.
What is an OST File?
An OST file is shorthand for Offline Storage Table File, which serves as an offline copy of the Outlook mailbox stored on a user’s computer. Through the help of these files, users are able to complete work while offline, and will be able to sync once connected to the Internet.
Due to the fact that OST files are tied to the user profile and device, the workspace email account is not able to be accessed through Gmail. This is where MyDigiSoft OST to PST Converter proves its worth.
Why Import OST Files Into Gmail?
Though many people use OST files for storing Outlook information, there comes a time when these files must be imported into Gmail. Let us find Import OST to Gmail important for the following reasons:
- Migrating to Gmail from Outlook, mainly during a company cloud migration.
- Accessing outdated or inactive OST files.
- Consolidating all communication into a single Gmail inbox.
- Recovering data from a damaged or permanently disabled Outlook profile.
- Difficulties with Direct Import OST to Gmail OST Files.
Gmail does not recognize the format of OST files. Even Google Workspace Migration tools require PST files for uploading Outlook data. Hence, the process is two-phased:
- OST files must be Converted to PST.
- PST files must be imported into Gmail through Google Workspace Migration for Microsoft Outlook (GWMMO).
Step-by-Step Guide: Import OST to Gmail Using MyDigiSoft OST to PST Converter
Step 1: Download and Install MyDigiSoft OST to PST Converter
Start with the MyDigiSoft website to find the OST to PST converter. Remember that the device must be secure and compatible with all the latest Microsoft Windows.
Step 2: Open the Software and Append OST Files
- Once the conversion software has been installed, proceed to launch the software.
- Start the software.
- Select the Add File option and click on it.
- Locate and click on the OST file that needs to be converted.
- The software will process the OST file and provide a preview of the mailbox items, which generally include emails, contacts, calendars, and more.
Step 3: Select PST as the Output Format
Once the scanning process is done, make sure to select PST as the format for export. While MyDigiSoft has many export options, for this specific task, it is best to stick to PST as Gmail works with PST files through GWMMO.
Key features of MyDigiSoft Converter:
- Ability to convert large and orphaned OST files.
- Maintains structure of folder organization.
- Preserves attachments alongside metadata and the original formatted content.
- Selective conversion of folders is permitted.
Step 4: Saving the Converted PST File
Make sure to select a location on your local drives to effectively store the converted PST files. The underlying processes for these sorts of software convert files in a timely manner and thus, once completed, will provide a confirmation of completion.
Step 5: Getting Google Workspace Migration for Microsoft Outlook (GWMMO)
- GWMMO is a tool that you will need to download and install in order to import PST files into Gmail.
- Download the GWMMO tool from the link provided and install it.
- Once installed, open the GWMMO tool and login using your Gmail or Google workspace credentials.
Step 6: PST Over Gmail
- Upon logging in, you will be able to search for the PST file that you converted.
- Once located you will be able to select the folders and files that you wish to transfer into Gmail.
- Once content has been selected, make sure to click the migrate option.
- Depending on file sizes and internet connectivity, the process of importing files may vary in time.
- After importation, all your Outlook files which were present in the OST file will be available in Gmail with correct tagging.
Why Would You Use MyDigiSoft’s OST to PST Converter?
MyDigiSoft OST to PST Converter stands out because it:
- Works on severely corrupted OST files.
- Maintains 100% data integrity.
- Provides advanced filtering (by date, subject, etc).
- Converts encrypted OST files.
- Supports batch conversion for bulk migration.
MyDigiSoft’s OST to PST Converter’s self-explanatory features guarantee a streamlined process even for users lacking technical expertise.
Conclusion
While importing OST files to Gmail may appear convoluted, the process can be streamlined with the right software. MyDigiSoft OST to PST Converter ensures that users can execute the process with great precision while maintaining the structure of the data throughout the migration.
MyDigiSoft bridges the gap between a standalone Gmail account and Outlook, be it for personal email retrieval or organizational email migration.
Common Queries
1. Is it possible to directly open OST files using Gmail?
- Gmail does not support OST files. It must be converted into PST format and later on imported using GWMMO.
2. Does MyDigiSoft offer a no-cost option for the OST to PST Converter?
- There is a demo version available where users can preview the converted files. However, in order to access the entire dataset, a corresponding license will need to be bought.
3. Is it possible to convert several OST files simultaneously?
- Of course. MyDigiSoft Converter facilitates batch OST conversion, which is particularly useful for large scale corporate migrations.
4. Will it be able to convert OST files from Outlook 2019 and Office 365?
- Of course. It can work with OST files from all versions of Outlook, including Outlook 2019 and Microsoft 365.
