Importing emails into Outlook is commonly done using the Import/Export wizard, particularly when bringing in data from a backup or another account stored in a .pst file.
Importing Emails into Outlook from a .pst File
Outlook stores your emails, contacts, calendar items, and other data in Outlook Data Files (.pst). Importing a .pst file allows you to add this data back into your Outlook profile.
Here is the step-by-step process to import emails from a .pst file, based on the official Microsoft guidance:
Step-by-Step Guide
- At the top of your Outlook ribbon, select File.
- Select Open & Export, and then choose Import/Export.
- Select Import from another program or file, and then select Next.
- Select Outlook Data File (.pst) and select Next.
- Browse to the
.pstfile you want to import, choose the desired options for duplicates (e.g., Replace duplicates with items imported, Allow duplicates to be created, Do not import duplicate items), and then select Next. - Choose the folder to import from (you can often import the entire file, which usually includes emails) and where you want to import the items (e.g., into the current folder or a new folder). Select Finish.
Outlook will begin the import process. The time it takes will depend on the size of the .pst file. For more detailed information, you can refer to the Microsoft Support article on importing PST files.
