PST (Personal Storage Table) files are used by Microsoft Outlook to store copies of messages, calendar events, and other items on your computer. Here are some key details about PST files:

Key Features of PST Files

1. Local Storage:

   • PST files store email data locally on your computer, which allows you to access your emails even when offline.

2. Backup and Archiving:

   • You can use PST files to back up your Outlook data or archive older emails to free up space in your primary mailbox.

3. Transferability:

   • PST files can be moved and imported into another Outlook installation, making it easy to transfer email data between computers.

Common Uses of PST Files

1. Email Backup:

   • Regularly back up your Outlook data to a PST file to prevent data loss.

2. Archiving Emails:

   • Archive older emails to a PST file to keep your mailbox organized and reduce the size of your primary mailbox.

3. Data Migration:

   • Use PST files to transfer email data when moving to a new computer or setting up a new Outlook account.

How to Create and Use PST Files

1. Creating a PST File:

   • Open Outlook, go to the File tab, select Account Settings > Account Settings. Click on the Data Files tab, then Add. Choose Outlook Data File (.pst) and give it a name.

2. Backing Up Emails to a PST File:

   • Go to the File tab, select Open & Export > Import/Export. Choose Export to a file, select Outlook Data File (.pst), and follow the prompts to choose what to export and where to save the file.

3. Importing a PST File:

   • Go to the File tab, select Open & Export > Import/Export. Choose Import from another program or file, select Outlook Data File (.pst), and follow the prompts to import the file.

Managing PST Files

• Compressing PST Files: If your PST file becomes too large, you can compact it to free up space. Go to File > Account Settings > Account Settings, select the Data Files tab, choose your PST file, and click Settings > Compact Now.

• Repairing Corrupted PST Files: If your PST file becomes corrupted, you can use the Inbox Repair Tool (SCANPST.exe) to fix it. Locate in your Office installation folder, run it, and follow the prompts to repair the file.

PST files are a versatile tool for managing and storing your Outlook data.