How do you create a new OST File?

To create a new .ost file in Outlook, browse to the location where you want to save it, type the desired file name, and then select Open. Outlook will then create the new .ost file.

Detailed Explanation:

While the initial statement is technically correct, the process usually involves Outlook creating the .ost file as part of configuring an Exchange, Microsoft 365, or Outlook.com account. You don't directly create a blank .ost file independent of an account. Here's a more complete explanation, covering the common scenarios:

Scenario 1: Recreating a Corrupted .ost File

If your existing .ost file is corrupted, Outlook may not function correctly. In this case, you would remove the existing .ost file, and Outlook will automatically create a new one when you restart it, assuming your Exchange/Microsoft 365/Outlook.com account is properly configured.

1. Close Outlook.

2. Locate the existing .ost file. The location depends on your Outlook version and operating system, but a common location is:

   C:\Users\<Your Username>\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Outlook

   You may need to enable "Show hidden files and folders" in File Explorer to see the AppData folder.

3. Delete the existing .ost file.

4. Restart Outlook. Outlook will detect the missing .ost file and automatically create a new one, synchronizing your mailbox data.

Scenario 2: Moving the .ost File Location

You might want to move the .ost file location, perhaps because your C: drive is running out of space. In this case, you can specify a new location:

1. Close Outlook.
2. Open Control Panel.
3. Search for "Mail" and open the Mail (Microsoft Outlook) applet.
4. Click on "Show Profiles..."
5. Select your Outlook profile and click "Properties."
6. Click on "Email Accounts..."
7. Select your Exchange/Microsoft 365/Outlook.com account and click "Change..."
8. Click "More Settings..."
9. Go to the "Advanced" tab.
10. Click "Outlook Data File Settings..."
11. Click "Browse..." and navigate to the new location where you want to save the .ost file.
12. Type the desired file name for the new .ost file and click "Open". (This is where you "create" the new .ost file by telling Outlook where to create it).
13. Click "OK" on all the open dialog boxes.
14. Restart Outlook. Outlook will create the new .ost file in the specified location and synchronize your mailbox data.

Important Considerations:

• The .ost file stores a synchronized copy of your Exchange/Microsoft 365/Outlook.com mailbox data.
• Ensure you have sufficient disk space at the new location.
• Do not manually modify the .ost file.