Step-By-Step Guide to Convert PST to ICS Format

Summary: Do you need to access your Outlook calendar file in another calendar program? You can, by simply converting your Outlook PST file to ICS format. PST files are only supported by Outlook and contain your Outlook information, like emails and calendars. Whereas, ICS is a widely supported format used for sharing calendar data across different calendar applications. Therefore, this blog will show simple steps to convert your PST calendar into ICS format. Use a free manual process or a thoroughly tested PST Converter Tool to convert PST to ICS file securely

Reasons to Convert PST File to ICS

ICS offers more compatibility and convenience between devices. Users use these for easy sharing, access, and backups. 

Below are some related reasons for conversion:

1. Users are migrating from Outlook to other applications, such as Google Calendar, Apple Calendar, or Thunderbird. They lack PST file support, but support ICS completely.
2. ICS files are small and easy to email or post on the web server.
3. ICS files work on all devices and operating systems, so you can easily keep your calendar in sync no matter what device you’re using.
4. If the user wants to split calendar items from email and contacts in PST files for further separation.

Methods to Convert PST to ICS Efficiently

This section will deal with the methods to convert the PST file format into a broadly supported calendar format. The first subsection will let you convert a PST file with a free-to-use method. After that, a more resilient way to achieve your desired output file will be introduced. Stay on this blog post to explore both of these methods.

Method 1: Native Method to Export PST to ICS

This manual method uses Outlook to convert the user’s desired PST file into ICS format. Here, we will simply import our PST file containing calendar data into Outlook and export it into ICS format.

Follow these steps to export PST to ICS:

1. To start, first open MS Outlook on your desktop.
2. Next, click on the File menu, then go to Open & Export, followed by Open Outlook Data File.
3. Next, locate and open the PST file that includes your calendar data.
4. After that, return to the File menu and click on Save Calendar.
5. Choose a path on your system where you want to store the ICS file.
6. After that, from the Save as type dropdown, pick iCalendar Format (.ics).
7. Lastly, define the path to save the resultant file and click Save.

Constraints of Using a Manual Method for Conversion

While the manual method is free to use and can be effective, it has some limitations. Such as:

1. Using the manual method may lead to a rise in Formatting problems when exporting calendar data.
2. Converting PST files in bulk manually is not recommended because you will have to repeat the process.
3. Large PST files or multiple exports may cause the process to get stuck and take more time. 
4. It involves many manual steps, which can be time-consuming and more prone to mistakes.

Method 2: An Automated Approach to Convert PST to ICS

A fast and easy way to convert PST files to ICS is to take advantage of a PST Converter Tool. It converts multiple PST files, saving the user time and energy. The tool is perfect for individuals who have no technical background. Moreover, users don’t need to go through a long or complicated process like the manual method. It also helps users to remove duplicate files. Most importantly, it keeps the user’s calendar data safe and as-is during the process.

Here’s a simple guide to help you convert Outlook PST to ICS:

1. To start, install and launch the Converter tool on your device.
2. Now, pick SelectFile(s) or Select folder and select to open your PST file containing Calendar data, then click Next.
3. Then, expand tree hierarchies, select your file, preview, and click Next. (Tick, If you want to preview on Browser option to preview)
4. Now, select ICS from File Format, and Apply Filters as per your requirement.
5. In the end, provide a location to save the file and click Convert.

Read More: Convert PST File to MBOX

Conclusion:

Users find it best to convert PST to ICS when they need to access their calendar using other calendar apps. They can use a manual method for personal use. However, for professionals, manual methods can be time-consuming, inconsistent, and unreliable, so we encourage them to use a PST converter Tool. It is designed for professionals, which has a higher speed and simplifies the process. It preserves the original structure and secures your calendar events during the conversion process. This tool provides a dependable and efficient solution for both personal and professional use.

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