Which NSF to PST Method Fits Your Data?
An NSF file is the Lotus Notes mail database. Outlook cannot open it, so you convert the data first.
| Method | Cost | Use case |
|---|---|---|
| CSV export and import | Free | A few mail folders |
| Converter software | Paid after demo | Mail, calendars, tasks and contacts |
What are the Manual Steps for NSF Mail?
Method #1: CSV Export and Outlook Import (Free)
Who it suits. Users with a small mailbox and Lotus Notes on the PC. Extra application. Lotus Notes and Outlook.
- Open Lotus Notes and select the Mail tab.
- Select File, then Export.
- Choose the destination and set the type to Comma Separated Value.
- Select Export. Add the .csv extension if Notes saves the file with none.
- Open Outlook and select File, then Open & Export, then Import/Export.
- Select Import from another program or file, then Comma Separated Values.
- Browse to the CSV file and select Finish.
- Export the imported folder to PST with Export to a file and Outlook Data File (.pst).
The CSV route drops fields and shows special characters in some items. You map the fields by hand during the import.
How does the Converter Process NSF Files?
Method #2: NSF to PST Converter (Paid After Demo)
Who it suits. Users with large NSF files or calendars and contacts. Extra application. NSF to PST Converter.
NSF to PST Converter exports emails, calendars, tasks, journals and contacts with attachments and folder structure to PST. The vendor page lists date filters, a PST split option and a direct export from Domino servers.
- Start the software and select Add Files or Add Folder.
- Select the NSF file.
- Choose the categories for mail, contacts and calendar.
- Set the filters and the PST split size.
- Choose the destination and select Export.
The software needs Lotus or HCL Notes on the PC, configured with a POP or dummy account. Outlook is not required. The demo exports 25 items per folder.
What should You Check After the Conversion?
- Open the PST in Outlook and compare the folder counts.
- Check the sender names and the dates on five items.
- Open a calendar entry and a contact.
- Store the NSF file until the check ends.
Planning the full move? Read how to move from Lotus Notes to Outlook.
Target is Exchange? See the Lotus Domino to Exchange migration steps.
PST too large? Read how to split a Lotus Notes archive file.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Outlook Open an NSF File?
No. Only Lotus Notes opens an NSF file, so you convert the data first.
What is the Free Way to Move NSF Mail to PST?
Export the mail from Lotus Notes to CSV, import the CSV into Outlook and export the folder to PST.
What does the Manual Method Lose?
The manual route drops some fields, can show special characters and needs manual field mapping.
Does the Converter Need Outlook?
No. The vendor page states that Outlook is not required.
Does the Converter Need Lotus Notes?
Yes. Notes must be installed and configured with a POP or dummy account.
Can the Converter Split a Large PST File?
Yes. The vendor page lists an automatic split by size.
What does the Demo Export?
The demo exports 25 items per folder.
Author's Verdict
Use the CSV route for a small mailbox.
Use converter software for calendars, contacts and large files.
Key Takeaways
- Outlook cannot open NSF files.
- The CSV route loses fields.
- The converter exports mail, calendars, tasks and contacts.
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