Questions
- How do I export my email and contacts from Outlook for Windows to a file?
- How do I create a PST file of my Bowdoin mailbox?
- How do I save a copy of my email before my Bowdoin account is closed?
- How do I move my Outlook email to another computer or another version of Outlook?
- How do I archive my Outlook mailbox to a file?
- Where does Outlook save an exported PST file?
Environment
This article applies to Bowdoin students, faculty, and staff using the Outlook desktop app on Windows. Exporting creates a Personal Storage Table (PST) file, which is a single file that holds a copy of the mailbox and can be imported into another copy of Outlook or kept as an archive. Outlook on the web does not offer PST export.
Resolution
- In Outlook, select File.
- Select Open & Export, then in the right pane select Import/Export.
- In the Import and Export Wizard window, select Export to a file, then select Next.
- Select the mailbox to export, then select Next. If more than one account is added to Outlook, scroll through the list and confirm the correct mailbox is selected. The Bowdoin mailbox is identified by the Bowdoin email address.
- Under Save exported file as, select Browse to choose a destination folder.
- In the File name box, type a descriptive name for the file, then select OK.
- Select Next.
- Select Finish to complete the export.
Note: The export and import process can take a significant amount of time, depending on the size of the mailbox.
Important: Individual contacts in the address book are included in the export, but contact groups are not. Anyone who uses contact groups should note them before exporting so they can be re-created afterward.
Additional Help
If you need further assistance, you have several options:
- Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
- Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
- In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
- Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.