OLM File Extension

What is OLM file?

OLM is a database file format used by Microsoft Outlook for Mac systems. OLM files store email messages, calendar data, contact data, and application settings. OLM is a counterpart of PST format for Windows systems.

Relation between OLM and PST files

Although OLM and PST files perform the same function and store the same type of data, each format is only supported on operating systems they were designed for. However, OLM file can be converted to a PST file and vice versa. Using converted OLM files to manage Outlook data may cause synchronization issues and thus should only be used as a interim solution until full switch from Mac to Windows. A much better solution would be to used two different Outlook user profiles associated with the same email address so the no data synchronization errors occur.

Programs which support OLM file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 2 operating systems that support OLM files. Files with OLM extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 04/26/2022

How to open file with OLM extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening OLM files on given system. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Mac Outlook Database Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with OLM files.

Step 1. Download and install OLM Viewer

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening OLM files is that no program that can handle OLM files is installed on user’s system. This one is an easy one. Select OLM Viewer or one of the recommended programs (for example, Microsoft Office, Microsoft Outlook) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support OLM files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit OLM Viewer website and download the installer.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of OLM Viewer

If you already have OLM Viewer installed on your systems and OLM files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. This can be one of the causes why OLM files are not compatible with OLM Viewer. The latest version of OLM Viewer should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open OLM files to OLM Viewer

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate OLM files with latest version of OLM Viewer you have installed on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Right-click the OLM file and choose Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the OLM Viewer installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open OLM files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected OLM file open the file menu and choose Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with OLM extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Ensure that the OLM file is complete and free of errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the OLM file is valid. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Verify that the OLM in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the OLM is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the scanner detected that the OLM file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Verify that the OLM file’s structure is intact

Did you receive the OLM file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. It could happen the the download process of file with OLM extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Mac Outlook Database Format file again.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run OLM Viewer

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with OLM extension. In this case close the other applications.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with Mac Outlook Database Format file. It may be the case that the OLM files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the OLM file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on OLM file.