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How do I save (locally) ALL emails from ALL accounts using IMAP Thunderbird 31.3.0?

  • 4 cavab
  • 1 has this problem
  • 12 views
  • Last reply by duggabe

DalTXJim
DalTXJim
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I have Thunderbird 31.3.0 installed using IMAP and have 10+ email accounts with thousands of emails that I want to "archive - save - backup" TO MY HARD DRIVE. Once this is done, these email accounts & emails themselves will be deleted from the server they are currently residing on. I see various scenarios on the internet, but none seem to be posted recently and/or using this version of TB.

I have "save on this computer" checked, but I don't believe that is actually saving the emails to my hard drive.

I have seen where these accounts - email folders should be moved to the "Local" folder, in order to save them to my hard drive. Is there a easy method to set this up, since I still have access to the email accounts & emails via IMAP? Or is that not the proper way to do what I want?

Please go easy on the technical stuff!

Thanks for your help!!!

I have Thunderbird 31.3.0 installed using IMAP and have 10+ email accounts with thousands of emails that I want to "archive - save - backup" TO MY HARD DRIVE. Once this is done, these email accounts & emails themselves will be deleted from the server they are currently residing on. I see various scenarios on the internet, but none seem to be posted recently and/or using this version of TB. I have "save on this computer" checked, but I don't believe that is actually saving the emails to my hard drive. I have seen where these accounts - email folders should be moved to the "Local" folder, in order to save them to my hard drive. Is there a easy method to set this up, since I still have access to the email accounts & emails via IMAP? Or is that not the proper way to do what I want? Please go easy on the technical stuff! Thanks for your help!!!

All Replies (4)

duggabe
duggabe
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There is an add-on to TB which allows import and export of emails in various formats to a separate storage medium (external disk, thumb drive, etc.).

The instructions on how to download and install it can be found at http://barryduggan.info/exportMail.php

DalTXJim
DalTXJim Question owner
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duggabe said

There is an add-on to TB which allows import and export of emails in various formats to a separate storage medium (external disk, thumb drive, etc.). The instructions on how to download and install it can be found at http://barryduggan.info/exportMail.php

I appreciate the information. I installed the add-on, but when I use it, no folders are moved. I have a feeling I need to set something in the add-on, but don't know what to change, as I'm not that familiar with it. Can you suggest some tips? Thank you!

sfhowes
sfhowes
  • Top 10 Contributor
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One option is to copy the online (IMAP) folder contents to a Local Folders folder, then export that folder with ImportExportTools. Or, select the messages in the Local Folders folder (Ctrl-A to select All), then Ctrl-S to save them as eml files.

Other options for IMAP backup are given here:

http://kb.mozillazine.org/IMAP_backup

duggabe
duggabe
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I have revised my instructions to include IMAP folders. Sorry for the oversight. See http://barryduggan.info/exportMail.php