Opening a .pst file on another computer over a home network and having emails displayed on both computers at different times can be a bit tricky due to how Outlook manages .pst files. Here are some considerations and suggestions for achieving this: 1. Shared Access: By placing the .pst file in a shared folder that both computers can access, you can technically open the file on both computers. However, Outlook typically doesn't support accessing the same .pst file simultaneously from multiple computers due to the way it locks and manages the file. 2. One Computer at a Time: If you decide to open the .pst file on one computer, make sure to close it before opening it on the second computer. This is necessary to avoid corruption and synchronization issues. 3. Email Display: When you open the .pst file on one computer and view emails, the changes (such as read/unread status, deletions, etc.) made will be saved in the .pst file. The changes will reflect when you open the file on the other computer. 4. Syncing Emails: For near real-time synchronization of emails across multiple devices, you might want to consider using Exchange Server, Office 365, or IMAP email accounts. These methods are designed for syncing emails across devices seamlessly. 5. Backup and Security: Keep in mind that sharing .pst files over a network can pose risks such as file corruption, data loss, or unauthorized access. Make sure to back up your .pst files regularly and secure your shared network appropriately. 6. Outlook Data Files: Apart from the .pst file, ensuring that other Outlook data files like .nk2 (AutoComplete cache) and .xml (Outlook customization settings) are not shared is a good practice, as these files are specific to each Outlook profile. In summary, while technically possible to open a .pst file over a home network, it's not recommended for simultaneous access due to potential data corruption risks. For better email synchronization across multiple devices, consider using email hosting services like Exchange Online or IMAP accounts for a seamless experience.
