How to Split Large PST File into Multiple File

ByAkash Singh

Microsoft Outlook is an extensively used email client that uses its PST (Personal Storage Table) format for storing calendar, journal entries, contacts notes, tasks and information about web browsing. PST files decrease the amount of data stored on servers that store emails. After a certain amount of time, the PST files are more significant than the limit of 50GB, which is typical. The increasing size of PST files can cause many issues with Outlook and split large PST files.

Several Reasons to Divide the PST File into Multiple Files

The growing size of PST files to their maximum size can affect some tasks in MS Outlook. The efficient functioning process may be interrupted. It is the reason behind the necessity of split PST files into separate files.

  • The performance and speed of the Microsoft Outlook application slow down.
  • If the PST file is more extensive than its maximum capacity, then the data it holds could be not executed properly.
  • Data storage becomes more complicated.
  • Users have issues either sending or receiving emails.
  • Split large PST files into smaller ones, and separating the data will be organized more efficiently.
  • There is a high chance of losing the data that the PST file stores.

Manual methods for Split PST File into Small Files

Control large PST files by using the Import/Export option. The Import/Export option is extensively employed for various purposes within MS Outlook. Its primary function is to transfer files into and out of the software. But, it could be helpful in split large PST files into more manageable parts. Follow these instructions to successfully divide PST files by using the Import/Export feature.

  1. Start the Microsoft Outlook application on your computer system and click “File” from the menu.
  2. Click to open Setting up your Account under this tab.
  3. An additional dialog window will be displayed. Select ‘Add’ under the ‘Data Files section.
  4. To create a new PST file, type in the name in the search box and select ‘Outlook Data File’ as the file name. After that, press OK.
  5. You can check the newly-created PST file in ‘Data Files.’
  6. Click on File. Select ‘Open & Export from the left side and click on the Import/Export option.
  7. An Import & Export Wizard dialog box will open. Select ‘Export to a file, then click the Next button.
  8. Now, choose ‘Outlook Data File (.pst)’ and select ‘Next’.
  9. Select the folders, and make sure you tick the box that says Include subfolders; after that, click on ‘Next.’
  10. Select a location to save the exported files. Highlight the option to ‘Do Not export duplicate items then hit the Finish button.

Manage large PST files using Archive Feature

Another method to divide and manage large PST files is to employ the feature ‘Archive’ to get rid of older items. Follow these instructions to make use of this feature: Archive function to control PST files:

  1. Again open the MS Outlook software on your system and then click File from the navigation bar.
  2. Choose the tab “Info” and then press on the ‘Mailbox Settings. The dropdown menu for settings will pop up, then click on “Clean old Items.’
  3. Select the folder and the date to archive, then click OK.

Control the large PST files with the “Move to Folder” feature.

The Move to Folder function in the Outlook application can also Split large PST file into smaller ones.

  1. Press the File option. Then, go to the “Account Settings” under the Account Settings.
  2. Click on “Add” under the section “Data Files.
  3. Go back on the screen that you are currently using, and select the ‘Move’ button. Select ‘Copy to Folder’.
  4. Select to use the PST file to transfer the data you want to move into the new file.
  5. The copied files can be removed to reduce the size.

Why do Professionals not Prefer Manual Methods

Manual methods of split PST files offer advantages as they are entirely free. However, they tend to be complicated to divide PST files into multiple files. There are some limitations because of which professionals do not recommend manual methods of performing these methods.

  • There is a good chance of losing data that is important for a long time.
  • Furthermore, no assurance will maintain integrity and security for the data contained in PST files.
  • These are not easy for novices. They require professionals to have adequate knowledge of Outlook.
  • It is, at the very least, takes a long time.

Professional Method For Split Large PST Files

Manual methods’ drawbacks can be easily solved with these professional methods. Aryson developed Split PST software, which offers an exclusive and superior way to divide large PST files into smaller files. It’s ideal because it allows users to large PST files into smaller ones based on five factors: size, date, and sender email id. It creates a separator PST file for all the folders. The accuracy and security of data throughout the process. It is compatible with every version of the MS Outlook application and supports these versions 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010, 2007, 2003, 2002, 2000.

Conclusion

PST files contain all information in Microsoft Outlook, including tasks and events, contacts, notes, and browsing data, because its size tends to overflow the capacity limit. A large PST will cause a slowdown in the operation of Outlook. Additionally, there is the possibility of data being lost or becoming inaccessible. The new storage of data could be a challenging task. It is why there is a great demand to break your PST data into smaller files. It can be accomplished with the Import/Export feature, Archive, or Move to Folder feature in MS Outlook. But, manual methods can have some drawbacks also. A professional tool such as the Aryson used for PST Split are recommended to protect data integrity.