Outlook backup - pst file enough?

Question

I'm making a backup of my Outlook folder. In Outlook I pressed export to a .pst file. Will this backup all my contacts and mails stored locally? And what with the .ost file, is this needed?

Answer 1

(1) While exporting, did you select export "Outlook Data File (.pst)" option and then selected the entire Outlook Data File - Profilename (with "include subfolders" option checked) under "Select the folder to export from" on a next window?

here are Outlook 2010 screenshots:

(2) Regarding .OST file, from the Outlook data files help page:

The primary distinctions between the two types of Outlook data files are:

-- The Outlook .ost files are used only when you have an Exchange Server account and choose to work offline or use Cached Exchange Mode.

-- The Outlook .pst files are used for POP3, IMAP, and HTTP accounts. When you want to create archives or back up your Outlook folders and items on your computer, including Exchange Server accounts, you must create and use additional .pst files.

Answer 2

In case you want to backup only some selected Outlook data like emails, contacts etc then you can export .pst file data by following the below steps:

1. Start Outlook. Go to File menu > click Import And Export. In case the menu item is not available then at the bottom of the menu, hover your pointer over the chevrons. Now click Import and Export.
2. Click on Export To File and then click Next.
3. Select Personal Folder File (.pst) and click Next.
4. Select the folder that you need to export to the .pst file and click Next.
5. Click Browse to select the location where you want to save the new .pst file.
6. Enter the name in the File Name box for the new .pst file and click OK. Click Finish.

There is no need to backup .ost file as only by exporting .pst file you can easily backup your emails and contacts.