How to Backup Outlook Files

This article demonstrates how to create a backup and restore files from a backup using Outlook 2010. If your email is managed by a Microsoft Exchange Server, backups are performed regularly as part of system maintenance, and it may not be necessary to create backup. For a home computer, creating a local backup copy of your emails is essential in the event of a system failure or program corruption.

For instructions on creating backups in Outlook 2002/2003/2007, go to Microsoft Support’s website for assistance.

To Export Outlook .pst File:

1. Start Outlook program.
2. Click File » Open » Import.
   
   
   
   
   
3. In the menu box, select Export to a file.
   
   
   
   
   
4. Click Next.
5. Select Outlook Data File (.pst).
   
   
   
   
   
6. Click Next.
7. Select folder to export from.
   
   
   
   
   
8. Click Next.
9. Rename file or keep default name.
   
   
   
   
   
10. Click Finish.

Note: The system may prompt you to create a password for your backup file for additional security. Click Cancel if you do not want to password-protect the file.

To Import Outlook .pst Backup:

1. In Outlook, go to File » Open » Import.
   
   
   
   
   
2. Select Import from another program or file.
   
   
   
   
   
3. Click Next.
4. Select Outlook Data File (.pst).
   
   
   
   
   
5. Click Next.
6. Locate the .pst file using the Browse button.
   
7. Click Next.
8. Select folder to import from.

9. Click Finish to initiate import process.

Reference:
Microsoft Support. How to manage .pst files in Outlook 2007/2003/2002. http://support.microsoft.com/kb/287070