Backing up Outlook

Step 1
Launch Outlook (not Outlook Express)


Step 2
Select File>Import and Export>Export to a File


Step 3
Select Personal Folder File (.pst) and click Next

.pst is the file name extension that Microsoft gives to save or archived Outlook files.



Step 4
Scroll up and highlight Personal Folders
Or whatever your 'highest level' folder is called.  
Make CERTAIN you also check the box called Include subfolders (circled in green).
Then click on Next





Step 5
Decide where to save the .pst file
Either type in the file path (use \'s not /'s) or click browse to toggle through where you want to save the .pst file.  I don't save my .pst's on my hard drive -- I save them on a 20 gig hard drive that connects via my PC Card to my Sony laptop.  No power cables needed.  (This little baby is not cheap but it's so portable.  Details at http://www.amacom-tech.com.)   (You can always save to a Zip Drive or burn a CD if you have that capability.)
Under Options, check the one you prefer.
Click Finish




Step 6
Select encryption levels
You'll now be brought to a final dialog box which displays the folder that you're going to be saving, and gives you the option to set your security levels.
I generally select No encryption, but it's up to you.  
Click OK



Step 7
Wait while Outlook saves itself as a .pst file
This can take 3-60 minutes depending on how many emails, how many folders and how large your emails are.  Don't interrupt this process.

You're done!