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Using Thunderbird with IMAP to Create Backup

  • 2 replies
  • 1 has this problem
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  • Last reply by sfhowes

info2499
info2499
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I would like to create an archive of a Gmail account, using Thunderbird with IMAP as I would like to maintain my folder (nee: label) hierarchy.

I created the IMAP account in Thunderbird, and things look good, but it seems that only the headers are being downloaded, not the entire email and attachments.

Is there a way to force Thunderbird to download everything, other than using POP? If I use POP, I would lose my labels / folders.

Any suggestions would be appreciated!

I would like to create an archive of a Gmail account, using Thunderbird with IMAP as I would like to maintain my folder (nee: label) hierarchy. I created the IMAP account in Thunderbird, and things look good, but it seems that only the headers are being downloaded, not the entire email and attachments. Is there a way to force Thunderbird to download everything, other than using POP? If I use POP, I would lose my labels / folders. Any suggestions would be appreciated!

Chosen solution

Thunderbird can download an offline copy of every message, which is called Synchronization.
To set up your folders for Synchronization see
https://support.mozilla.org/kb/imap-synchronization

This will then allow you to backup your email archive by backing up the entire Thunderbird profile. https://support.mozilla.org/kb/profiles-where-thunderbird-stores-user-data#w_backing-up-a-profile

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All Replies (2)

christ1
christ1
  • Top 25 Contributor
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Chosen Solution

Thunderbird can download an offline copy of every message, which is called Synchronization.
To set up your folders for Synchronization see
https://support.mozilla.org/kb/imap-synchronization

This will then allow you to backup your email archive by backing up the entire Thunderbird profile. https://support.mozilla.org/kb/profiles-where-thunderbird-stores-user-data#w_backing-up-a-profile

Modified by christ1

sfhowes
sfhowes
  • Top 10 Contributor
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In the Synchronization & Storage section of Tools/Account Settings, check the box 'Keep messages in all folders...', or click Advanced to download selected folders.