2 Free Methods to Convert NSF to PST Format

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  • Updated on April 16th, 2025

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Summary: If you’re planning to move from Lotus Notes to Outlook, you’ll need to convert NSF to PST format. This is because Outlook doesn’t support the NSF file type used by Lotus Notes. While tools like the DRS Softech NSF to PST Converter can simplify this task, many users prefer trying manual options first, especially when looking for a no-cost solution. Go through the complete blog to get simplified solutions, including manual and professional solutions, to convert your NSF file into PST format.

Why do we Need to Convert NSF File to PST?

NSF and PST are file formats used by two different email clients: IBM Lotus Notes and Microsoft Outlook. Since they aren’t compatible with each other, you can’t open NSF files directly in Outlook. That’s where file conversion becomes necessary. Here are some common reasons users need to convert NSF to PST:

  • Organizations and individuals often shift from Lotus Notes to Outlook for its user-friendly interface and better integration with Microsoft 365.
  • Outlook is more affordable and easier to manage compared to the high maintenance cost of Lotus Notes.
  • PST files work flawlessly with all versions of Outlook and Exchange, while NSF files are limited to Lotus Notes.
  • After conversion, you can easily access your old emails, contacts, calendars, and other data in Outlook.
  • Outlook doesn’t offer a built-in way to open NSF files, so conversion is the only option.

In short, converting NSF to PST ensures you don’t lose access to important mailbox data when you switch to a new email platform.

How to Convert NSF to PST Format

When switching from IBM Lotus Notes to Microsoft Outlook, users often need to convert their NSF files to PST format. In this part of the blog, we’ll cover two free and practical methods to help you perform the conversion using built-in tools and utilities. Let’s also introduce the automated solution for a more efficient and error-free NSF to PST conversion experience.

Method 01: Free Method to Convert NSF File to PST

There’s no direct option in Outlook to import NSF files, but you can still use a two-step manual method to transfer your Lotus Notes data to Outlook. It involves exporting data from Lotus Notes and then importing it into Outlook using CSV format.

Step 01: Export the NSF File from Lotus Notes to CSV

  1. Open Lotus Notes on your system.
  2. Click on File >> Open >> Lotus Notes Application.
  3. Locate and open the NSF file you want to convert.
  4. Now, it’s time to navigate to the File option >>Export.
  5. In the export window, choose a location to save the file.
  6. Enter a file name and select Comma Separated Value (CSV) as the file type.
  7. Click Export and select the desired options in the next dialog box.
  8. At last, click OK to convert NSF to Outlook data file(PST).

Step 02: Import the CSV File into MS Outlook

  1. Subsequently, open Outlook on your system.
  2. Go to File >> Open & Export >> Import/Export.
  3. Choose Import from another program or file, then click Next.
  4. Select Comma Separated Values, and click Next.
  5. Browse and select the CSV file exported from Lotus Notes.
  6. Choose the destination folder (Inbox, Contacts, etc.).
  7. Click Finish to begin the import.

Important Note: Once done, the data from the NSF file will be available in Outlook. If you want to perform the additional steps, you can export the imported NSF files as PST.

Points to Remember

  • This method works best for emails, contacts, and basic data.
  • It does not support calendar items, attachments, or complex metadata.
  • The folder hierarchy might not be preserved in the manual method.
  • Along with that, this method is useful only for small-scale migrations.

For accurate results and complete mailbox transfer, especially in corporate environments, it’s better to use a professional tool like the NSF to PST Converter.

Method 02: Quick & Reliable Method to Convert NSF to PST

Manual methods for converting NSF to PST can be time-consuming and risky, especially when dealing with large files or important business data. That’s where the automated solution comes in.

The DRS Softech NSF to PST Converter is an easy-to-use tool that helps you convert NSF files from Lotus Notes into PST format for Outlook. It lets you move all your emails, contacts, calendars, tasks, and attachments safely without losing any data. You can convert multiple NSF files at once and keep your original folder structure. The tool also lets you filter data by date, remove duplicate emails, and split large PST files if needed. It works well with all versions of Lotus Notes and Outlook. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, this tool makes the conversion process quick and smooth.

Key Features Associated with This Utility

  • Bulk Conversion: Add and convert multiple NSF files at once.
  • Preserves Data Integrity: Maintains email formatting, folder hierarchy, metadata, and attachments.
  • Preview Option: View mailbox content before conversion.
  • Advanced Filters: Select specific emails by date, subject, sender, etc.
  • Split PST Feature: Divide large PST files into smaller parts.
  • Support for Encrypted NSF Files: Easily convert password-protected NSF files.
  • Wide Compatibility: Works with all versions of Lotus Notes, Outlook, and Windows OS.

Simple Steps to Convert NSF to PST

  1. Download and install the NSF to PST Converter application on your system.
  2. Hit the “Add File” or “Add Folder” button to load the NSF file you want to convert.
  3. Once added, the tool will scan the file and present all mailbox items for your preview.
  4. Select PST as your target format and choose the folder path where you’d like to save the output file.
  5. Apply any desired filters, then click on “Convert” to migrate NSF to PST.

After it’s done, open the resulting PST file in Outlook to access your data. If you’re looking for a safe and smart way to switch from Lotus Notes to Outlook, this tool can save you hours of manual effort and prevent potential data loss.

Conclusion

The two methods discussed above can help you get started. The free methods explained above offer a basic way to convert NSF to PST. While they can be helpful for simple migrations, they may not work well for large files, attachments, or maintaining folder structures. If accuracy, speed, and data integrity matter to you, choosing the recommended automated solution is often the better route. It ensures that your data is transferred completely and ready to use in Outlook without any extra hassle.

About The Author:

Shital is an experienced content writer who focuses on data recovery and email migration. With a strong background in technology and a love for making difficult topics easy to understand, she writes clear and helpful content for both tech experts and regular users. Her content helps you to manage the challenges of recovering lost data and moving emails between platforms like Office 365, Outlook, and other email clients. Her detailed guides help people protect their data and make their communication systems run smoothly.

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