How to Split PST Files: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Keeping your Outlook PST file is important in managing your emails. But when these files get too big they can become hard to manage. Let's talk about why it is important, how you can split PST files using manual methods, the downsides of manual processes and a professional tool to make it all easier.

Why You Should Split a PST File?

1. Large PST files make Outlook operate slowly. Splitting them improves Outlook's performance and dependability.
2. Huge PST files are readily damaged, especially if something unexpected occurs, such as your computer quickly shutting down. Splitting PST files lowers the risk of losing critical data.
3. Large PST files might make it difficult to locate and manage your emails. Splitting PST files allows you to view and manage your data in Outlook.
4. It also simplifies moving emails to a new computer or sharing them with others.
5. Some computers struggle with large PST files. Splitting them solves these problems and ensures everything works smoothly.

Want to split a PST file without extra tools? Here are some manual methods.

Method 1: Use the Archive Feature to Store Old Data

Find and store old emails, calendar events, and other items you don't need for daily tasks. Archiving creates a new PST file with this stored data.

1. First, launch and Open Microsoft Outlook.
2. Then, navigate to the File tab.
3. Now, select the Info option and go to the Cleanup tools.
4. The Cleanup Tool Wizard will show up; select "Archive."
5. The Archive wizard will now display, and you can click Archive this folder and its subfolders.
6. After selecting Archive this folder and all subfolders, choose any one of the folders to divide.
7. Now, tick the box and choose the Browse option.
8. Give the destination path where you want to save the split data then click the OK button.

Method 2: Use Outlook "Move to Folder" Option

Here is how to do it:

1. To start open Outlook and choose "New Items" from the Home menu.
2. In the new items window, select More Items.
3. Choose Outlook Data Files.
4. A small window will appear after clicking "Outlook Data Files."
5. Create a new file or select an existing one.
6. Open the file you've just made.
7. Choose any folder from the list to move it into a newly made folder.
8. Now click the OK button.

Downsides of Manual Methods

1. Manual methods need technical knowledge to work properly.
2. It can be time-consuming.
3. You might accidentally lose some data permanently.
4. There's no assurance of data safety.
5. It can be difficult, and people without technical skills might struggle to manage it.

Given these disadvantages you should consider other solution like using a trusted tool.

Can You Suggest Any Third-Party Software for Splitting PST Files?

Sure! If you want a tool to split PST files I recommend DataVare Outlook Split PST Tool a great tool for safely dividing your PST files into smaller ones. It's super easy to use and works well with any Windows or Microsoft Outlook version, so you won't have any trouble with compatibility. The coolest thing? Its easy interface makes it easy for anyone to understand and use. There is a free demo version where you can process a few items per folder to see how it works.

Steps to Use It

1. Download and Install the Split PST tool on your system.

1. Use the "Search" or "Browse" option to find and add your PST files.

1. After that, select a location for the output location.

1. After that, click on the Split Now option to pick the method that suits your needs (Split by Size, By Folder, By Year).

What Important Features Make This Tool Reliable?

1. It is the best tool for breaking down large PST files into smaller ones, no matter how big.
2. You have three options to divide your files: size, year or folder.
3. This tool works smoothly on all versions of Windows and can handle both old and new versions of Outlook files.
4. It is compatible with all Outlook PST file types.
5. It has a user-friendly interface that makes splitting tasks easier.

Final Thoughts

In managing Outlook keeping your PST files manageable is important. When these files grow too large they can slow down Outlook and risk data loss. This guide explains why splitting PST files is important and provides manual methods. It also introduces the professional solution as a reliable tool for simplifying the process. If you are dealing with large PST files this tool is worth considering to improve performance and organization effortlessly.