file conversion

Ultimate Guide to Convert OLM File to PST

If you're looking for an effective way to convert OLM files to PST, this article is here to assist you. Within this post, we will delve into the definitions of OLM and PST files, and explore techniques for importing OLM files into Outlook for Windows. We will cover two methods: a manual approach with detailed steps and an automated solution using an effective application i.e., Advik OLM to PST Converter. Before delving into these methods, it's essential to grasp the difference between OLM and PST file formats.

OLM files are utilized by Mac Outlook to store mailbox data, while PST format is employed by Windows Outlook to save items such as emails, calendar events, and contacts. These file formats are tailored for specific operating systems. Many Mac Outlook users may find themselves in the situation of needing to open OLM file in Windows Outlook. Consequently, they seek ways to open OLM files in a Windows environment. We will also explore various reasons behind this conversion.

Factors Responsible for OLM to PST Conversion

It's important to be aware of the following reasons for converting Outlook OLM files to PST before proceeding with the migration:

  1. Transitioning from a Mac to a Windows environment on a permanent basis within your organization.
  2. The necessity to access and extract content from orphaned OLM files residing on your system.
  3. Temporary use of Windows OS, prompting the migration of Mac OLM to PST.
  4. Opening and viewing the contents of a received OLM file.
  5. Enhancing the portability of email data.

With these motivations in mind, let's now delve into the methods for importing OLM files into Outlook for Windows.

Method 1: Manual Conversion of OLM to PST Using Gmail and Outlook

This method involves utilizing a Gmail account and requires Microsoft Outlook to be installed on your Mac device. Additionally, you'll need a Windows-based device with Outlook installed to store the OLM file data in Windows Outlook. Let's begin the conversion process:

Step 1: Enable IMAP Protocol

  1. Sign in to your Gmail account.
  2. Access the Settings icon and choose the Settings option.
  3. Select the 'Forwarding and POP/IMAP' tab.
  4. Enable the IMAP option.
  5. Click the 'Save Changes' button.

Step 2: Generate an App Password

  1. Visit https://myaccount.google.com/.
  2. Click on the Security option and enable the two-step verification.
  3. Select 'App Password' and sign in to your Gmail account.
  4. Choose 'Other (custom name)' as the app option.
  5. Enter 'Outlook Desktop Mac' and click the 'Generate' button.

Step 3: Configure Gmail in Outlook Mac

  1. Launch MS Outlook and go to the File option.
  2. Click the 'Add Account' button.
  3. Enter your name and Gmail email ID.
  4. Provide your App password and re-enter it.
  5. Click the 'Next' button to initiate the verification process.

Step 4: Move OLM File to Gmail

  1. Right-click on your Gmail mailbox and select the 'New Folder' option.
  2. Assign a name to the folder and press Enter.
  3. Right-click the Mac Outlook folder and choose 'Copy Folder.'
  4. Select the recently created folder and click 'OK.'
  5. Your copied folder will be imported into your Gmail account.

Step 5: Sync Gmail to Windows Outlook

  1. Generate another app password for Windows Outlook, following the steps in Step 2.
  2. Open MS Outlook and click the File option.
  3. Click the 'Add Account' button.
  4. Enter your name and Gmail email ID.
  5. Enter your App password and re-enter it.
  6. Click the 'Next' button to start the verification process.
  7. Once the validation process is complete, click on the 'Finish' button.

Step 6: Import Data into PST Using Outlook

  1. Click the File option.
  2. Select Open & Export and then choose the Import/Export option.
  3. Opt for 'Export to a file' and click 'Next.'
  4. From the 'Export to a File' window, choose 'Outlook Data File (.pst)' and click 'Next.'
  5. Select the Gmail folder you wish to import.
  6. Check the 'Include the Subfolders' checkbox and click 'Next.'
  7. Click the 'Browse' button, specify a location to save the PST file, and click 'OK.'
  8. Choose 'Do not export duplicate items' and hit the 'Finish' button.

While this manual technique is effective, it can be time-consuming and requires access to two different machines. In the next method, we will explain an automated approach that eliminates the need for these lengthy steps.

Convert Outlook OLM to PST with Professional Software

While we've explored the manual approach, it's worth noting that it can be quite time-consuming. What we need is a straightforward and reliable solution suitable for both technical and non-technical users. In this regard, I recommend utilizing a third-party utility known as the Advik OLM to PST Converter With this converter tool, you can effortlessly transform Mac Outlook OLM files into PST format, even handling large OLM files, and offering the flexibility to convert OLM to PST in batch also.

Conclusion

In wrapping up this blog, we've covered various methods, including both manual and automated approaches. Nevertheless, it's important to acknowledge that novice users may encounter challenges when attempting the manual method. As such, I recommend opting for the automated approach for a smoother conversion from OLM to PST.