If you're looking for a way to export your Office 365 contacts, you're not alone. With millions of users relying on Microsoft's cloud-based productivity suite, it's essential to have a backup plan in place. In this article, we'll show you how to export your Office 365 contacts using native functionality and third-party software.

Why Export Your Office 365 Contacts?

Before we dive into the exporting process, let's talk about why backing up your contacts is crucial. Whether you're a personal user or an enterprise professional, losing access to your contact information can be disastrous. With a backup plan in place, you'll have peace of mind knowing that your data is safe and secure.

Using Native Office 365 Functionality

Microsoft provides a built-in feature for exporting Outlook contacts. This method allows you to create a backup of your contacts using the PST (Personal Storage Table) file format. Here's how:

1. Open Microsoft Outlook.

2. Click on 'File' in the top left corner, then select 'Open & Export.'

3. Click on 'Import/Export' and choose the option that says 'Export to a file.'

4. Select 'Contacts' as the folder you want to export.

5. Choose the PST file format and browse for a location to save your backup file.

6. Click 'Finish' to complete the process.

Limitations of Native Functionality

While Microsoft's built-in functionality is convenient, it has some limitations. For instance, the PST file will be stored on your computer, which means you'll need to worry about losing your backup data if something happens to your device. Additionally, the PST file will not be updated automatically, so you'll need to repeat the backup process each time a new contact appears.

Using Backup Software

Another option for exporting Office 365 contacts is using specialized backup software. Microsoft Outlook Backup Solution from SpinOne is one such solution that offers advanced features and security measures. With this software, you can create a secure backup of your contacts data and store it in a location of your choice.

Cloud Storage: Is It Really Secure?

Some users may be tempted to store their backup data in cloud storage services like OneDrive or Dropbox. However, this approach has its own set of risks. Cloud storages are vulnerable to hacking and data breaches, which means your backup data could be compromised.

Exporting Office 365 contacts is a simple process that can be done using native functionality or third-party software. While Microsoft's built-in feature offers convenience, it has some limitations that may not meet the needs of all users. Using specialized backup software like Microsoft Outlook Backup Solution from SpinOne provides an additional layer of security and peace of mind.

By following these steps and choosing a reliable backup method, you'll be able to keep your Office 365 contacts safe and secure.

How to export office 365 contacts