How to Convert NSF to PST File Format? – Step-by-Step Guide

Microsoft Outlook and Lotus Notes are the widely used email service providers among the users. Lotus Notes supports the NSF (Notes Storage Facility) file format to store all its mailbox data whereas MS Outlook supports the PST (Personal Storage Table) format to store all the mailbox data. Due to various reasons, many users want to convert NSF to PST file format. Outlook offers several features that make its users choice for professional use and Accessing NSF files in Outlook can be challenging. So, In this blog, we will provide the best reliable methods to convert NSF to PST file format so that you can easily access your NSF data in Outlook. If you want a hassle-free solution then you can opt for a DRS NSF to PST Converter Tool.

Before moving further on converting NSF to PST format, let’s understand why most users want to do this.

Why Convert NSF to PST?

There are various reasons for which many users want to convert NSF to PST file format. Here we have mentioned some of the common reasons for NSF to PST conversion below:

  • Outlook is a much more cost-effective email service provider as compared to Lotus Notes.
  • Users can easily configure multiple accounts simultaneously in the MS Outlook application.
  • Microsoft Outlook email service provider is a more user-friendly interface in comparison to Lotus Notes.
  • Outlook also offers a great feature that allows users to access their mailboxes without any internet connection.
  • Outlook offers better security and data management than Lotus Notes

These are some common reasons for migrating Lotus Notes to Outlook PST format. Now, we will move further and see how to convert NSF to PST Format.

How to Convert NSF to PST File Format?

Users can use the manual technique to convert NSF to Outlook PST file format. The process of conversion is bit lengthy and complex. It is recommended to create a copy of the original file, as there is a risk of data loss due to human error. Follow the steps below:

Manual Method to Convert NSF Files Into PST Files

Phase 1: Export NSF Files into CSV Format

  1. Run the IBM Lotus Notes program on your PC.
  2. Go to the menu then click on the File tab > Open > select Lotus Notes application.
  3. In the Open application window, browse to pick the NSF files to export and then click Open.

Step1

  • In the File menu, select the Export option.
  • In the export dialog box, enter the file name, saving type, and location of the file.
  • Choose the Comma-Separated Value format.

step2

  • In the CSV export dialog box, select the options at your convenience.

step3

  • The data will be saved in the defined location.

Phase 2: Import CSV File into Outlook

  • Launch the MS Outlook application.
  • Open the File menu.
  • Choose the open & export option
  • Select Import/Export option.

step4

  • Select Import from another program or file in the next window.

step5

  • Select the file type as Comma-Separated Values.

step6

  • Click on browse to select the CSV file path.

step7

  • Select the location where you want to save the exported file.

step8

  • In the import file dialog box, check on the checkbox.

step9

  • All the CSV files are now imported to Outlook.

Above are the manual steps to export NSF to PST file format. However, there are several limitations as well with the manual technique.

Common Issues While Converting NSF to PST

  • Manual conversion involves multiple steps, and each step requires technical precision, making the process complicated for non-experts.
  • During manual conversions, there is a significant chance of missing or corrupt data if the process isn’t followed correctly.
  • Manual methods usually lack filtering options, meaning you must convert the entire NSF file, even if only specific emails or folders are needed.
  • Handling multiple NSF files at once is not feasible with manual methods. You need to convert each file individually, which can become overwhelming if there are many NSF files to migrate.

Right Approach to Convert NSF to PST File Format

There are several limitations to using the above technique to convert Lotus Notes to PST file format. So, to avoid all these issues, you can also use follow which provides an effortless and safe conversion process. You can use the Best NSF to PST Converter tool which is capable of performing the batch conversion of the NSF files. Any technical and non-technical user can easily perform the conversion using the advanced utility. The tool offers some amazing features that will help users with a quick and easy conversion.

Key Features Of DRS NSF to PST Converter Tool

  • Exports Complete Mailbox Data: Easily exports all Lotus Notes data, including emails, calendars, contacts, and more, to Outlook.
  • Batch Conversion Supported: Allows converting multiple NSF files at once for faster migration.
  • Advanced Filters and Search: Offers search functionality, date filters, and preview options for selective migration.
  • Removes Encryption: Capable of removing encryption from Lotus Notes emails.
  • DocLink and Internet Header Options: Provides the option to save DocLinks and Internet headers during conversion.
  • No File Size Limitation: Handles large NSF files without performance issues.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Features an intuitive GUI, making it easy for users of all experience levels.
  • Free Demo Version Available: A trial version is provided for evaluation before purchase.

Also Read: Difference between OST and PST Files

Conclusion

In this blog, we have discussed how users can convert NSF to PST file format and the common needs for NST to PST conversion. We have discussed manual methods but also there are several limitations and risks of data loss. So it is highly suggested to use the professional NSF to PST converter tool which provides a hassle-free conversion.

About The Author:

Shivam is a digital marketer and technical content writer at DRS Solution®, specializing in topics like databases, email recovery, and migration solutions. He enjoys researching and crafting content that assists database administrators, businesses, and beginners in resolving various issues related to MS SQL, MySQL, and Microsoft Exchange.

© Copyrights 2018-2025 DRS Softech - All Rights Reserved.