As Thunderbird has no in build backup, I am somewhat concerned that you have "always allowed Thunderbird to make backup files." perhaps you could explain what backups you are referring to.

Matt said

As Thunderbird has no in build backup, I am somewhat concerned that you have "always allowed Thunderbird to make backup files." perhaps you could explain what backups you are referring to.

It's part of ImportExportTools. It creates a directory like vef4lcks.default-20161212-2134, every 24 hours, which seems to have everything in it, including email. Tried to import using ImportExportTools on the directory and on the email subdirectory, but nothing imported.

Ok, now I understand. You are making backups with the import export tools.

When I look in my copy there is an option to import a profile. that would be the one you want, as you will be replacing the one you have with the backup.

I have not done this, but I would assume the folder vef4lcks.default-20161212-2134 (the latest obviously) is the target the import a profile option is looking for.

Hi Matt,

Appreciate you taking the time to help me. When I set this up some number of years ago, I assumed it would be easy to recover using the backup file.

My ImportExportTools only has the following options: Import mbox file Import messages Import all messages from a directory Import SMS I don't see an Import profile option. Is my ImportExportTools out of date?

All I can do is include a picture and tell you the import export tools I have is reported as 3.2.4.1. But these options are not new. perhaps you are not using the menu, but a right click context menu.

Thank you very much Matt,

As you suspected, my ImportExportTools was not up to date. Having updated the program, the import profile worked and restored all my old emails.

Thanks for your support.

Case closed.