This registry key -- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\ControlSet001\Control\BackupRestore\FilesNotToSnapshot -- includes Microsoft Office .ost file. This causes my Veritas software not to include this important file. What is the logic for excluding this file? What would be the consequence of deleting the OutlookOST key from the registry?
Hi PoulsboMike
The OST file is just a file that is provided so you can work offline. It is synced to your Web based mail account. Your web based account is your backup. If it is deleted it will just be recreate the next time the account is log in and the imap process initiates.
At least this is how I understand it. Please see this article.
https://support.office.com/en-us/art...ad=US&fromAR=1
Ken
I don't want to delete the ost file. I want to delete the key in the registry which lists the ost file as one not to be shadowed.
In that Registry key does the .ost file have a 1 or a 0? Usually changing 0 to 1 allows an action or 1 to 0 prevents the action. But, CAVEAT, playing in the Registry has consequences if the wrong thing is done. You can back it up first, one of the Menu items.
No number in the key. Just the path to the ost file
Yes, it's a backup program; don't plan on changing. I also use a feature of the program to make daily backups of a couple of important files and that one backs up the outlook ost file OK.
Just asking. BTW what is the name of the program? I remember Veritas back in the late 90's early 2's. Used to use it back then as my backup program. Didn't know they were still around.
It's called System Recovery Desktop 16.
OK,
I just looked in my backup program (Acronis) and only one of my 3 .ost mail files show. The other two don't. Perhaps because the one that does show is a Microsoft Exchange account.
Anyway have a look at this as it should ease your concerns - Locating the Outlook data files, under Offline or cached Outlook items (.ost)...
Note: All the data in the .ost file is kept on the server, so you don’t have to back it up. Your account server synchronizes the .ost file on your computer to keep your Outlook items current.
With that, I wouldn't go messing about the registry in fiddling with the OST files.
Also, just FYI, I can say I've never had an issue with my files showing, even on clean installs so the server backup does seem to work.
Good luck.
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