OAB File – What is .oab file and how to open it?
OAB File Extension
Offline Address Book – file format by N/A
OAB (Offline Address Book) file extension is associated with Microsoft Exchange Server and Outlook. It contains a cached copy of the global address list (GAL) that is stored on the user’s computer, allowing them to access address information while offline.
OAB File: Purpose and Function
An Offline Address Book (OAB) file, as indicated by its extension .OAB, serves as a local copy of an Exchange Server’s global address list (GAL). Its primary purpose is to provide users with access to contact information and other directory data while offline. OAB files are generated regularly by Exchange servers and are downloaded by Outlook clients when connected to the network.
OAB File: Structure and Components
OAB files are structured in a hierarchical manner, containing multiple folders and subfolders, each representing a different part of the GAL. These folders can include contacts, groups, and distribution lists. OAB files also incorporate additional metadata, such as timestamps, indicating the date and time of the file’s creation or last update. By maintaining a local copy of the GAL, OAB files enable Outlook users to search for and access contact information even when disconnected from the Exchange server.
Method 1: Using Microsoft Outlook
The OAB file format is primarily associated with Microsoft Outlook. To open an OAB file, ensure that Outlook is installed on your computer. Navigate to the OAB file’s location and double-click on it. Outlook should automatically import the offline address book and make it available for offline use. You can access the imported address book under the “Offline Address Book” tab within Outlook.
Method 2: Using Third-Party Software
If you do not have Microsoft Outlook installed or prefer to use a different software, you can use third-party software that supports the OAB file format. Several free and commercial software programs are available online, such as:
- OAB Viewer: A free and portable utility that allows you to view and extract information from OAB files.
- ABViewer Plus: A commercial software that offers advanced features for managing, viewing, and printing address books, including OAB files.
- Contact Manager: A comprehensive contact management software that supports OAB import and export, allowing you to integrate offline address books into your contact management workflow.
Overview of OAB Files
An Offline Address Book (OAB) file, denoted by the .OAB extension, serves as a local cache of address information used in email communication. It stores data extracted from an organization’s central Global Address List (GAL) and is synchronized regularly to maintain its currency. OAB files are typically managed by Microsoft Exchange Server and are essential for providing offline access to contact information within an organization’s messaging system.
Functionality and Usage
OAB files allow users to access address information even when they are not connected to the network. This is particularly beneficial in scenarios where internet connectivity is unreliable or unavailable. When an OAB file is synchronized, it downloads a copy of the GAL to the user’s local device. This enables users to search for and view contact information, including email addresses, phone numbers, and job titles, without requiring an active network connection.