PST Compress: A Step-by-Step Guide to Shrink Large PST Files without Corrupting Your Outlook Data

PST Compress: A Step-by-Step Guide to Shrink Large PST Files without Corrupting Your Outlook Data

Safely Reduce PST File Size without Affecting Emails or Attachments


One of the biggest problems when using Outlook is a large PST (Personal Storage Table) file. When a PST file becomes too large, Outlook slows down, freezes, and can sometimes even crash. Therefore, it's crucial to compress your PST file periodically. In this blog, we'll show you how to shrink your PST file in two ways:


DOWNLOAD NOW


  1. Manual method (within Outlook)
  2. Through a third-party tool
  3. We've also included FAQs to answer all your questions.

Read: How to Fix “Cannot start Microsoft Office Outlook”?


Manual Method: Compressing a PST File in Outlook


Compressing a PST file in Outlook is easy and doesn't require any additional software. Below is a step-by-step process:


Step 1: Open Outlook and locate the data file.


Open Outlook.

Go to File > Account Settings > Account Settings.

Go to the Data Files tab and select the PST file you want to shrink.


Step 2: Back up the file


Click on the PST file and select Open File Location.

Keep a copy of the original file somewhere safe. This is just for safety.


Step 3: Auto-Archive and Delete Unused Items


In Outlook, go to File > Options > Advanced > AutoArchive Settings.

Delete or archive old emails, junk, and unused items.

This will reduce the size of the PST file.


Step 4: Compact the PST File


Click File > Account Settings > Data Files > your PST file.

Click Settings > Compact Now.

Outlook will scan the file and shrink the PST file by removing any spaces.


Note: After compacting, Outlook must be closed and reopened for all changes to take effect.


Compressing a PST File Using a Third-Party Tool


At times, the PST is too big, or manual techniques are ineffective. The quickest and safest way is to use specialized software.


DataVare Outlook PST Compact Expert is a software designed to efficiently shrink large PST files. Whether your PST file is ANSI or Unicode, this tool supports both formats & delivers fast, secure results.


Key Features of PST Compact Expert


Secure PST Compression


Managing Large PST Files Made Easy


Supported for All Windows Versions


User-Friendly Interface


Support for Multiple PST Files


How to use PST Compact Expert


Step 1: Download & install the software



Step 2: Add the PST file



Step 3: Get the compression process started.



Step 4: Look at the results.



FAQs: Popular Questions About PST Compress


Q1:- Can data be lost after compressing a PST?

No, the data is safe, no matter if you use a trusted outside application or personally condense Outlook.


Q2:- How often can a PST file be compressed?

You can compress it whenever the PST file size becomes too large or Outlook slows down.


Q3:- Is it necessary to close Outlook before compacting a PST?

Yes, it is vital to restart Outlook after compacting in order to delete any unused space.


Q4:- Are third-party tools free?

Some tools offer limited features in the free version. Paid tools are more reliable for complete & secure compression.


Q5. How much does Outlook speed up after compressing a PST?

This depends on the current size of the PST file and the system. The speed boost is usually between 20% & 50%.


At last:-

The performance of Outlook may be affected by a large PST file. External programs are more efficient & safe, even though the manual method is easier. You can keep Outlook operating efficiently by routinely reducing the size of your PST.