Changing Microsoft Outlook OST File Location

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Changing the location of a Microsoft Outlook Exchange offline cache data file, those ending with a file extension of “.OST”,  is not as straight forward as changing the file location of an Outlook “.PST” file. However, it is possible and this article will cover how to do so.

The easiest way to change the directory where the Outlook OST file is located is to set the “ForceOSTPath” registry key. However, you need to set that key before you add the email account to your profile. Not to worry if the account has already been added. Simply remove the account and add it back after setting the ForceOSTPath registry key.

 

To change the directory where your OST file is located set the ForceOSTPath registry key as detailed below:

  • Open the “Registry Editor” by clicking on the “Start” button (Windows logo) down at the bottom left of your screen.
  • Type “regedit“, (just start typing as a search window will automagically appear) and select the “Registry Editor” app from the list.
  • Browse to the Outlook key for your version.
    • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Office\16.0\Outlook
      • Outlook 2013 is 15.0
      • Outlook 2010 is 14.0
  • Right mouse click within the pane on the right and select “New” then “Expandable String Value” and give it a name of “ForceOSTPath“

 

Moving Outlook OST File

 

  • Right click on the new “ForceOSTPath” entry and select “Modify“
  • Paste the path into the desired directory location in which you want to store your OST file and press Enter.
    • Example (note the trailing slash at the end): C:\Users\Myname\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Outlook\

 

Conclusion

I welcome your thoughts, questions or suggestions on my article on how to change the location of the Outlook OST file or Exchange offline cache data file.

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