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How to Transfer All Mozilla Thunderbird Mail to a New Computer

Comprehensive guide for transferring all emails, settings, and accounts from Mozilla Thunderbird to a new computer. Step-by-step instructions to preserve all data without losses.

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Transferring Mozilla Thunderbird email client to a new computer requires careful attention to preserve all emails, settings, and accounts. In this guide, we'll explore several reliable migration methods.

Method 1: Copying Thunderbird Profile

On the old computer:

  1. Locate the profile folder: Open Thunderbird → "Help" menu → "Troubleshooting Information" → find "Profile Folder" line and click "Open Folder"
  2. Close Thunderbird completely
  3. Copy the entire profile folder to external storage (USB drive, cloud storage)

On the new computer:

  1. Install Thunderbird but don't launch it
  2. Find the profiles folder:
    • Windows: %APPDATA%\Thunderbird\Profiles\
    • Mac: ~/Library/Thunderbird/Profiles/
    • Linux: ~/.thunderbird/
  3. Replace folder contents with copied files
  4. Launch Thunderbird - all settings and emails will be in place

Method 2: Using Built-in Export/Import

Export on old computer:

  1. Open Thunderbird
  2. Select email folder → right-click → "Export to..."
  3. Save files in .mbox format
  4. Export address book: "Tools" → "Address Book" → "Tools" → "Export"

Import on new computer:

  1. Install and configure accounts in Thunderbird
  2. Import emails: "Tools" → "Import" → select .mbox files
  3. Import address book through corresponding menu

Method 3: IMAP Synchronization

If your email accounts support IMAP:

  1. Configure IMAP instead of POP3 on old computer
  2. Wait for all emails to sync with server
  3. On new computer simply configure same accounts via IMAP
  4. All emails will download automatically from server

Important Tips

  • Create a backup before starting transfer
  • Ensure Thunderbird version compatibility
  • Check file permissions on new computer
  • Don't forget to transfer custom dictionaries and filter settings
  • Test sending/receiving emails after transfer

Troubleshooting

If problems occur after transfer:

  • Check incoming and outgoing mail server settings
  • Ensure antivirus isn't blocking Thunderbird
  • Recreate accounts manually if necessary

Additional information can be found on the official Mozilla Thunderbird support website.

If you encounter any problems, contact us - we'll help quickly and professionally!