How to Create a New Outlook PST File in Outlook 2010, 2013, and 2016

Outlook PST files are portable, making it easy to transfer email data between systems. As your Outlook data grows, you can transfer old or important items to a new PST file for safekeeping. Creating a new Outlook PST file is useful for compliance or legal requirements, as well as keeping your data organized.

But how can you create a brand-new PST file? You can do it right within Outlook itself using its built-in features, with no need for external tools. This article will guide you through the easy steps for creating a PST file in Outlook 2010, 2013, and 2016.

Creating a PST File in MS Outlook: Two Easy Methods

If you’re looking to create a new PST file in Outlook, you’re in the right place. We’ll walk you through two simple methods, so you can get started quickly.

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1st Method: Using the “New Items” Option

This method works in Outlook versions 2010, 2013, and 2016.

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Open Microsoft Outlook.
2. Go to the Home tab and click on New Items.
3. Select More Items, and choose Outlook Data File.
4. In the new window that appears, name your new PST file.
5. If you want, add a password to secure the file. Click OK to finish.

Once completed, your new PST file will appear in the left pane under your list of email folders. You can now move emails into the PST file as needed.

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2nd Method: Using Account Settings

This method is another easy way to create a PST file, especially in Outlook 2010.

Here’s how:

1. Open Outlook and go to File > Info > Account Settings.
2. In the pop-up box, click the Data Files tab.
3. Click Add to create a new PST file.
4. Name the file, then click OK.

Once the file is created, it will be available in your Outlook folder list, and you can start organizing your emails.

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Why You Might Need a New PST File

• Archiving: To store older emails and free up space in your main mailbox.
• Compliance: To meet legal or organizational data retention policies.
• Organizational Needs: To keep personal and professional data separate.

PST File Location

By default, PST files are saved in the C:\Documents\Outlook Files folder on your computer. You can easily access them from there if needed.

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Important Notes

While creating a new PST file is straightforward, it’s essential to keep in mind that PST files can become corrupted over time, especially as they grow larger. If you encounter any issues with your PST file, a reliable Outlook PST Repair tool can help you recover data quickly.

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FAQs

1. Can I add a password to protect my PST file?
Yes, when creating a new PST file, you’ll have the option to add a password. This ensures your data is secure and can only be accessed by entering the correct password.

2. Where are PST files stored on my computer?
By default, Outlook stores PST files in C:\Documents\Outlook Files. You can also specify a different location when creating the file.

3. Can I move emails to the PST file automatically?
Yes, you can use Outlook’s AutoArchive feature to automatically move older emails to your PST file, helping you manage mailbox size.

4. Can PST files get corrupted?
Yes, especially as they grow larger. Corruption can occur, but using Outlook’s built-in repair tool (ScanPST) or third-party tools can help fix most issues.

5. Can I create folders within my new PST file?
Yes, once your PST file is created, right-click the file in the folder pane, select New Folder, and name your new folder.

With these easy steps, creating a new PST file in Outlook is simple. It’s a great way to organize your emails, back up important data, and keep your Outlook running smoothly. If you ever run into issues, reliable PST repair tools are available to get you back on track quickly.