Want to download mailbox data from Office 365 for backup or migration? The most reliable way to get a copy of your Outlook mailbox is by exporting it as a PST file. But here’s the catch — Office 365 doesn’t offer a direct “Download PST” button in the Admin Center. So how do you do it?

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the best and most secure method to [export PST from Office 365 Admin Center](https://www.adviksoft.com/blog/export-pst-from-office-365/). This method is perfect for Office 365 administrators and users who need full mailbox data in PST format.

## Why Download PST from Office 365?

Downloading PST files from Office 365 can help you:

* Back up important emails for future reference or offline access
* Migrate data to other Outlook accounts or services
* Preserve emails when users leave the organization
* Keep legal or audit records of user communications

Whether you're an IT admin or a business owner, having a PST copy ensures email safety and flexibility.

## Best Method to Export PST from Office 365 Admin Center

While Office 365 Admin Center doesn’t offer direct PST export, Microsoft provides a secure way to download mailbox content using the Microsoft Purview Compliance Portal (formerly eDiscovery).

This method is official, free, and reliable — but you need proper permissions to access it.

**Requirements Before You Start**

You must be assigned the eDiscovery Manager role in Microsoft Purview.

You should use Microsoft Edge or Internet Explorer (for ClickOnce app to work).

Make sure you have Outlook installed, if you want to view or import the PST later.

### Steps to Download PST from Office 365

**Step 1: Log in to Microsoft Purview Compliance Portal**

Go to https://compliance.microsoft.com and sign in with your Office 365 admin credentials.

**Step 2: Go to Content Search**

Click on "eDiscovery" > "Content search" in the left menu.

If Content Search isn’t visible, make sure you're added as an eDiscovery Manager under Permissions.

**Step 3: Create a New Search**

Click “New Search”

Add conditions (if you want to export specific content like emails from a date range or user).

Choose Locations > Exchange mailboxes and select the user(s) you want to download mail from.

**Step 4: Start the Search**

Click Search and wait for Microsoft to finish indexing the mailbox.

**Step 5: Export Search Results**

Once the search is complete:

Click on your search name.

Click the “Export Results” option.

Choose “All items, including ones that have unrecognized format, are encrypted, or weren't indexed for other reasons.”

**Step 6: Download the PST File**

Click “Download results”.

Copy the Export Key provided.

Click “Download” — this installs the Microsoft Export Tool.

Paste the Export Key and choose the destination folder to save the PST.

Done! You’ve now downloaded your mailbox content from Office 365 as a PST file.

### Key Benefits of This Method

No third-party tools needed — completely free and official

Granular export — choose specific mailboxes, folders, or time frames

Secure process — performed within the Microsoft ecosystem

Compliance ready — supports legal and audit requirements

**Alternative:** Use Automated Tool (For Simpler Needs)

If the Microsoft Purview process feels complex, you can also try tools like **Advik [Office 365 Backup Tool](https://www.adviksoft.com/office365/backup.html)**. It allows you to:

1. Login with Office 365 credentials
1. Choose user mailboxes
1. Download complete PST in a few clicks

This is ideal for non-tech users or smaller businesses looking for an easier way to save Office 365 emails locally.

#### FAQs – Download PST from Office 365

**Q1. Can I export emails of a specific user from Office 365?**

Yes, using Content Search, you can export PST of selected users.

**Q2. Can I export multiple user mailboxes at once?**

Yes, select multiple users in the “Locations” section during the search setup.

**Q3. Is Outlook required to perform the export?**

No, but you’ll need Outlook to open and view the downloaded PST files.

**Q4. How long does it take to export PST?**

It depends on the mailbox size. Small mailboxes may take a few minutes, large ones may take longer.

**Q5. Can I use Google Chrome or Firefox?**

No, PST export requires Microsoft Edge or Internet Explorer to use the Export Tool.

### Conclusion

Exporting PST from Office 365 Admin Center isn’t direct — but with the help of the Microsoft Purview Compliance Portal, it’s completely doable and safe. For admins handling large amounts of data or legal inquiries, this method is both powerful and reliable.

If you’re looking for an easier alternative, especially for regular backups, tools like Advik Office 365 Backup Tool can simplify the process.

Now that you know how to download PST from Office 365, go ahead and try it based on your need — whether it's for backup, migration, or compliance!