Technical

Complete Guide to Backup PST File to OneDrive

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Alice Wilson
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4 min read

backup pst file to onedrive.jpg PST file is an Outlook data file that stores Outlook emails and other data. If the PST file gets corrupted, you may lose your PST file data. The file may get corrupt due to many reasons, such as Outlook crash, large PST file size, etc. Therefore, it is important to have a backup of your PST file. This will help restore your Outlook data in case your PST file gets corrupt or you face any other issue.

Since PST file is stored on your system storage, it is best to back up the file on OneDrive – a cloud-based service, for better security and accessibility. Let’s explore about OneDrive and the steps to backup PST to OneDrive.

What is OneDrive?

OneDrive is a cloud-based service by Microsoft that allows you to store files and other data on the cloud. You can safely store your files, share them further, and access them using any device and from anywhere.

How to Find PST File Location?

When you setup your MS Outlook account, the PST file is automatically created at a default location on your system. If you do not know the PST file location, follow the below-mentioned instructions:

  • For Outlook 2007 and earlier versions: Navigate to Tools > Options > Mail Setup > Data Files.

  • For Outlook 2010 and later versions: Navigate to File > Info > Account Settings > Data Files.

How to Backup PST Files to OneDrive?

You can backup your PST files to OneDrive by following the below-mentioned steps:

  • Launch File Explorer on your system and navigate to C:\Users[username]\OneDrive\Documents\Outlook Files.

*Note: If you do not find the PST file at the above location, you can launch Outlook, right-click on the account having the PST file that you wish to backup and then choose Data File Properties > Advanced. This way you can find the complete file path.*

  • Now, copy the PST file that you want to backup and then paste it into your OneDrive location.

Features of OneDrive

Below-mentioned are some features of OneDrive cloud storage:

File Sharing Options: All the files stored on OneDrive automatically have a Private setting. You can make these files Public using your Office 365 account.

Synchronization with Local System: OneDrive can be easily synced with your local system with the help of a desktop sync application.

Security: You get advanced protection, with multiple layers of security, when you use OneDrive. You can encrypt your data, add security information to your account, and add extra layer of security by using two-factor verification.

Shortcomings of OneDrive

Although OneDrive offers many benefits, it has some shortcomings too, such as:

Limited Size Support: The OneDrive cloud storage does not support a file size over 15 GB. So, if your PST file is larger than this, you should not try to upload it.

OneDrive Desktop App File Upload Issue: The OneDrive desktop app attempts to upload the PST file continuously, but the sync won’t be successful as PST file remains locked when Outlook is running. Hence, the PST file may get corrupt during the upload attempt.

Causes Slow Network Speed: When OneDrive is synced with your system, it will try to upload your PST file constantly, even if there are no changes in the file. If the file size is large, it will consume network speed. This will impact the upload process.

What to Do If Your PST File gets Corrupt?

If your PST file gets corrupted, you can use a professional PST repair tool , such as Stellar Repair for Outlook to repair it. The software will help you repair the corrupt PST file, irrespective of the file size. It also allows you to preview the recovered mailbox items before saving them. The software also provides an option to Split and Compact large PST file to prevent further corruption chances.

Conclusion

OneDrive is the cloud storage service provided by Microsoft. You can use OneDrive to backup your PST files. It helps you restore your PST file data, in case of any untoward incident.

If your PST files get corrupted, you can use a professional PST repair tool, such as Stellar Repair for Outlook. This outstanding tool repairs the corrupt file and recover all its data. It is compatible with Outlook 2019, 2016, and older versions. You can try the free version of the software to evaluate its functionality before purchasing the licensed version.