How to Search for PST Files

PST files are the personal folders on a computer in which Microsoft Outlook files are contained. A user's PST file, which stands for "personal storage file," contains all of the email messages in that user's inbox and mail folders, as well as the Outlook contacts, calendar data and other information. To back a PST file up or move it to another computer, you must first locate it on your system. A search will achieve that goal.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
    

   Open Microsoft Outlook to the main Outlook window. If the "Navigation Pane" is not displayed on the left side of the window, go to the "View" menu and select "Navigation Pane."

2. 
    

   Find "Personal Folders" in the "All Mail Folders" of the "Navigation Pane." Right-click "Personal Folders." A menu will appear.

3. 
    

   Select "Properties for Personal Folders" in the right click menu. The "Outlook Today Personal Folders Properties" dialog box will open.

4. 
    

   Click the "Advanced" button at the bottom right side of the dialog box. The "Advanced" dialog box will open.

5. 
    

   Place the cursor at the beginning of the "Filename" field and select the entire file path. Right click it and select "Copy." Right click the Windows "Start" button and select "Open." Paste the file path into the window's address bar and click "Go" to open the PST file location.

Resources

• Microsoft Outlook Home Page