How to Open a PST File

If you have an Outlook data file ending in .pst, open it with Outlook to view the email and other items it contains. A PST file stores Outlook data, such as messages, contacts, and calendar items. Opening the file lets you browse its contents; importing it copies selected items into a mailbox.

On Windows, open the file with classic Outlook or with new Outlook if your setup meets Microsoft’s requirements. The steps depend on which version you use.

Open the file in classic Outlook #

In classic Outlook for Windows, select File > Open & Export > Open Outlook Data File, then choose the PST file. Its folders appear in Outlook’s folder list, where you can select a folder to view its contents. Microsoft’s instructions for opening Outlook data files cover opening and closing the file.

Opening the PST keeps its contents in the data file. If you want those messages or other items in your mailbox, use an import option instead.

Open the file in new Outlook for Windows #

Microsoft’s current instructions require classic Outlook to be installed on the same computer. Both Outlook versions must have the same architecture, meaning both are 32-bit or both are 64-bit. The account in new Outlook must have a Microsoft 365 subscription. PST files are not supported in the ARM version of new Outlook, and Outlook cannot use them in Safe or Recovery mode.

To add the file to new Outlook, go to Settings > Files (or Data files) > Outlook Data Files, select Add file, choose the .pst file, and select Open. Microsoft’s PST opening instructions explain how to add the file.

New Outlook lets you read and search the file and manage its email and folders. You can also move or copy email between the PST and mailbox. To disconnect it later, go to Settings > Files > Outlook Data Files, select Manage for the file, then choose Close file.

Import PST items into a mailbox #

Choose Import when you want PST items copied into your mailbox. In new Outlook, go to Settings > Data files > Import, select Outlook Data File (.pst), and choose the folders to import. Then select how Outlook should handle duplicates, choose a destination folder, and select Import. Microsoft’s PST import instructions describe this process.

Opening connects Outlook to the file so you can browse it. Importing copies selected items into a mailbox.

If Outlook cannot find or open the file #

Check that you selected the correct .pst file and folder. PST files created in Outlook 2013 or later are commonly saved in Documents\Outlook Files. Older PST files on computers upgraded from earlier Outlook versions might be in a hidden AppData\Local\Microsoft\Outlook folder, according to a Microsoft Q&A response.

If Outlook reports that the file is damaged, make a backup copy before trying to repair it. Outlook includes the Inbox Repair Tool, also called ScanPST. The tool scans a PST and tries to fix errors in its structure. A Microsoft Q&A discussion describes the tool. Repair can leave some content missing, so keep the original file unchanged.

Outlook for Mac and other viewers #

Windows Outlook steps do not necessarily apply to Outlook for Mac, which uses its own OLM data format. Community guidance says imported PST folders appear under On My Computer. Check the instructions for your Mac version before moving or importing mail; the Microsoft Q&A discussion of Mac PST files explains the format difference.

If Outlook is unavailable, a third-party PST viewer is another option for inspecting a file. For example, a PST viewer listed on Microsoft Marketplace says it can open and display PST files. Review the provider and its privacy practices before using any third-party tool with personal or work email.

$ curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/vincentsch/mailmd/main/install.sh | sh

Set up mailmd so you can read my email. Use https://github.com/vincentsch/mailmd: read its AGENTS.md and follow the steps. Connect my mailbox and run the first sync. Then show me where the files are.