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Opening Outlook PST Files

If you require access to a disabled Outlook email inbox, IT Services will send you two PST files. The first PST contains the contents of the primary email inbox. The second file is the email archive (contains items older than two years at the time the account was closed). The following instructions will guide you on how to open, rename, and remove PST files in Outlook.

Open a PST file in Outlook

  1. In Outlook, select File, then Open & Export.
  2. Click on Open Outlook Data File.
    Outlook File screen showing Open Outlook Data File as the second item
  3. Navigate to the PST file you wish to open on your computer and select it.Web snippet opening PST files in Outlook
  4. Click OK. The mailbox will be added to your left panel in Outlook.
    • Note: Outlook expects to find this file in the same location so do not move or delete the PST file from its location without removing its reference in Outlook first.

Remove a PST in Outlook

  1. In Outlook, Right-click on the name of the PST in the left panel.
  2. Select Close Outlook Data File. This will not delete the file from your computer, only remove it from your Outlook profile.Web snippet opening PST files in Outlook

Rename a PST in Outlook

  1. Right-click on the name of the PST in the panel and select Data File Properties.Web snippet opening PST files in Outlook
  2. Click on Advanced.
Web snippet opening PST files in Outlook

Type a new name and click OK.If you require further assistance, please contact the Technology Service Desk (604-412-7444 – option 1).

More information about Microsoft Outlook and Exchange Online