Summary of IT Knowledge Base
- How do I access my archived emails in Outlook?
- Where did my archive go in Outlook?
- How do I retrieve my archived emails?
- How do I unarchive an email in Outlook?
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AI Overview
To access archived emails in Outlook, look for the dedicated Archive folder in the left pane (New Outlook) or use File > Open & Export > Open Outlook Data File to browse for your .pst/.ost archive file (Classic/Desktop Outlook), or simply use the search bar and ensure it searches “All Folders,” as archived items are often in a separate mailbox or file.
For New Outlook (Web/App)
Look for the Archive folder in your folder list on the left.
If you don’t see it, go to View > Folder Pane > Folder list and select Show to make all folders visible.
Click the Archive folder to see your emails, or use the search bar and select “Archive Folder” to search within it
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For Classic/Desktop Outlook (Windows)
Using the Archive Folder:
Check the folder list below your primary folders for an “Archive” or “Online Archive” section.
Click the arrow to expand it and view emails.
Opening the Archive File (.pst/.ost):
Go to File > Open & Export > Open Outlook Data File.
Browse to where your archive file (e.g., archive.pst) is saved and open it; it will appear in your folder list.
Using Search:
Type keywords into the search bar at the top.
In the search tools, select to search All Folders or All Mailboxes to find items anywhere, including archives.
If You Can’t Find It
Check Settings: Go to File > Options > Advanced > AutoArchive Settings to see your rules or location.
Search Your Computer: Use File Explorer to search for .pst or .ost files if you suspect a local archive.
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Access Online Archive Email from a Web Browser
This article will show you how to access your Outlook archive email from a web browser.
All emails, calendar items, and tasks that are older than one year will be moved to your online archive folder, Personal Archive.
Once emails have been moved to your online archive folder, you will no longer be able to find them in your live email account. You will need to look in your online archive email account for your archived emails.
1. Log into your email on the Web.
2. In the folder pane of your email, find and expand your Personal Archive folder.
In your web access, the online archive folder is called Personal Archive, in your desktop application it is called Online Archive. Your archived data will be the same in both locations and folders.
The ability to expand your online archive folder may not be seem when you initially log into your online email account. Click your Personal Archive folder to display the expand option.
3. You can now explore your online archive folders in Personal Archive.
All of your folders within Personal Archive will contain emails older than one year, if you have any.
Need More Help?
Contact the IT Helpdesk at [email protected] or 657-278-7777.