OFT File Extension

OFT file icon

Outlook Format Template

What is a OFT file?

The OFT file extension is linked to Outlook Format Template and belongs to the Data Files category, which includes 6196 files.

The Outlook Format Template (OFT) was developed by Microsoft, which created file format and 242 programs to work with them.

OFT files are compatible with various operating systems, including Mac OS, Windows and Linux. To open a OFT file, you can choose from 3 programs such as Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Office and Microsoft 365.

How to open a OFT file?

If you cannot open a OFT file, it is most often due to missing software. Select a program from the list according to your operating system. Then go to the official website of the program developer, download it, and install it on your device.

Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Office and Microsoft 365 are recognized as the most popular software solutions for dealing with OFT files. To set up the newest version of Microsoft Outlook on your device, simply go to the official Microsoft website. There you can download the edition compatible with every operating system.

Once installed, Microsoft Outlook will be set as the default program, and OFT files will open automatically.

Set Microsoft Outlook to open OFT by default

Setting a default program by file type in Windows

  1. Right click on your OFT file, then select "Open with" and click "Choose another application";
  2. Find the Microsoft Outlook application in the pop-up window and select it as your preferred program;
  3. Select the "Always use this application" check box and click "OK" to save your selection as the default application for opening OFT files.

Change default apps on Mac

  1. Right-click or use Control + Left-click on the desired OFT file to access the file’s context menu;
  2. Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
  3. At the bottom of the window, find the "Enable" menu, where "Recommended Programs" is already selected by default;
  4. Within this menu, select "All Programs" and then locate Microsoft Outlook. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to set it as the default program.

How to edit a OFT file?

Editing OFT files requires installing professional software that lets you open and edit data files. Online editors have more limitations compared to dedicated Outlook Format Template programs.

Best OFT editors in 2026

Considering the mentioned criteria, we have compiled a list of OFT editors that may suit your needs.

OFT Editor SoftwareDeveloperPlatformsOverall Rating
Microsoft OutlookMicrosoftWindows, Mac OS4.5 out of 5 (47 reviews)

Convert to and from OFT

If you struggle with a OFT file, consider converting it to alternative formats such as O or other similar file types.

Converting a OFT file may not fully retain all functionality, but it is generally possible to return it to the original format.

Convert OFT to other file formats

Easy OFT Troubleshooting

Certain problems with OFT files can be conveniently fixed with small software tweaks. Here are some helpful tips to address them.

What are the steps to repair a damaged OFT file?

Open the corrupted OFT file in a recovery program and select the "Repair" menu item. Please be patient while the recovery process completes, which will automatically restore the damaged data files.

How do I know if my OFT file is corrupted?

Corrupted OFT data files may show the following signs:

  • Attempts to open the file result in errors or failed results;
  • Editing the archive in Microsoft Outlook is accompanied by slow performance or delays;
  • The file causes Microsoft Outlook or other programs to hang or crash during operation;
  • Unexplained increase in OFT file size;
  • Error messages appear while working with the file;

What are the reasons behind Microsoft Outlook crash?

The likely cause of Microsoft Outlook crashing is lack of software updates. Install the latest updates available for Microsoft products.

Restarting your computer is often an effective solution to resolve various common problems. Therefore, it is recommended to do so before making any changes to the software configuration.