Top 3 Strategies to Convert DBX to PST – A Complete Tutorial

Introduction

Converting DBX to PST is a big task especially when you are moving emails from Outlook Express to Microsoft Outlook. With the discontinuation of Outlook Express many users are left wondering how to access their old email data stored in DBX format. This guide will walk you through the top three methods to convert DBX to PST in a smooth, efficient and reliable way.

Why Convert DBX to PST?

DBX is the proprietary format used by Outlook Express to store emails while PST is the format used by Microsoft Outlook. Since Microsoft has discontinued Outlook Express many users are facing compatibility issues with their old email data. Converting DBX to PST will make your emails accessible in the latest version of Outlook and provide a more modern and secure environment to manage your emails.

Let’s get started with the top three methods to convert DBX to PST.

Method 1: Manual DBX to PST Conversion Using Outlook Express and Outlook

One of the old school way to convert DBX to PST is through manual method involving both Outlook Express and Microsoft Outlook. Though this method may take time and attention to detail but is a good solution if you still have Outlook Express.

Step by Step Guide for Manual Conversion:

Export Mail from Outlook Express:

·         Open Outlook Express.

·         Go to File > Export > Messages.

·         Select the email folder you give to export and then click Next.

·         Choose Microsoft Exchange and click OK.

Your email data will be exported and ready to import into Microsoft Outlook.

Import Emails into Microsoft Outlook:

·         Open Microsoft Outlook.

·         Go to File > Open & Export > Import/Export.

·         Choose Import Internet Mail and Addresses.

·         Select Outlook Express and follow the prompts.

Your DBX files will be imported into Outlook and you have successfully converted DBX to PST.

Advantages of the Manual Method:

·         No third party software required.

·         Simple and free if you have both programs.

Disadvantages:

·         Time consuming and both Outlook Express and Microsoft Outlook should be installed on the same machine.

·         Not suitable for large DBX files or users with many folders.

Method 2: Using Third Party DBX to PST Converter Software

If you don’t have Outlook Express or manual method seems complicated, you can use ZOOK DBX to PST Converter Software designed to convert DBX files to PST. It is a simple program that allows you to convert Outlook Express data to Outlook in seconds. It converts DBX files into PSTs with 100% accuracy. The application runs smoothly on any version of Windows. It is compatible with all Windows OS versions listed below, as well as 10, 8.1, 8, and 7.

Just follow the simple guide to DBX to PST Converter

·         Download and install ZOOK DBX to PST Converter on your PC.

·         Select DBX Files in the Software Panel.

·         Set you’re save location.

·         Press the Convert Button.

Method 3: Convert DBX to PST Using Windows Live Mail

Another method that involves an intermediate email client is using Windows Live Mail. Though Windows Live Mail is also discontinued many users still have it installed and it provides an alternative way to convert DBX to PST.

Steps to Convert DBX to PST Using Windows Live Mail:

·         Import DBX Files into Windows Live Mail:

·         Open Windows Live Mail.

·         Go to File > Import Messages.

·         Select Outlook Express 6 and browse to the location of your DBX files.

·         Complete the import process.

Export Emails to Microsoft Outlook:

·         In Windows Live Mail, navigate to File > Export Email > Email Messages.

·         Choose Microsoft Exchange as the format.

·         Follow the prompts to export all the email messages to Microsoft Outlook.

Access the Emails in Outlook:

Once exported, open Outlook, and the emails will be available in PST format.

Advantages:

·         Useful for users who still have Windows Live Mail installed.

·         Avoids the need for third-party software.

Disadvantages:

·         Time-consuming.

·         Requires installation of Windows Live Mail, which is no longer officially supported by Microsoft.

Final Thoughts on DBX to PST Conversion

Each of the methods outlined above provides a reliable way to convert DBX files to PST. The manual method is ideal for users who have both Outlook Express and Outlook installed, while third-party converter software offers a fast and efficient alternative, particularly for users dealing with large DBX files or lacking Outlook Express access. The Windows Live Mail method is another option for those who prefer to avoid external software but still require an intermediary email client.

When choosing the right method, consider the size of your DBX files, the complexity of the task, and whether you have access to both Outlook Express and Microsoft Outlook. Each solution comes with its pros and cons, but with the right approach, your email data will be safely transferred to PST format.