How to Backup Thunderbird emails to External Hard Drive

In this article, users will learn about the methods to backup Thunderbird emails to an external hard drive without any data loss. There are two categories of methods discussed in this guide; one is Manual Method and the other is a Professional Approach. A detailed analysis of both techniques is discussed in this post.

Thunderbird email is free of a cost email client that was first introduced in 2003  by Mozilla Foundation. It is a cross-platform email client that extends its services to personal information managers, news client, chat client, etc. This email client uses the MBOX file format to store users’ data.

Where does Thunderbird store Emails?

Thunderbird emails are normally stored in the profile folder. This folder can be used to store data of single or multiple accounts of Thunderbird. It is by default generated by the Mozilla Thunderbird. This is among the most widely used email client for corporates or business organizations. Therefore, they need to keep a backup of data to avoid data damage.

However, there are some other scenarios in which data backup has proven to be a blessing for users. Some of the common reasons for mail backup are noted below.

Why do you need to Backup Thunderbird emails to Hard Drive?

• While using Thunderbird emails users may sometimes accidentally remove files from the mailbox and in such a case backup will be the rescuer.
• If your Thunderbird account has got hacked then you can regain your data from the backup.
• Users may lose their data in case of any damage to the system. So, to avoid that users must have a backup of the mailbox.

Also Read – Recommended Methods to Export Thunderbird Emails to Outlook PST

Techniques to Backup Thunderbird emails to External Hard Drive

There are two methods through which users can backup Thunderbird emails. The first method is a manual approach and the second method is an automated approach. Users can study both the procedures and choose the most preferable method for completing the backup task.

Manual Method to Backup Thunderbird email Locally

If you want to backup Thunderbird emails by performing a manual methodology then refer to the steps written below and follow them in the same sequence.

• Turn on your PC and follow the below-written path.

C:\Users\*ProfileName*\AppData\Roaming\Thunderbird\Profiles\*Profile.default*\

• Now, you have to copy the files that you want to backup and store them on a hard drive or network storage media.

Here, those files that has .msf in the end are not MBOX files. You have to skip them and copy the other files.

•  Next, to back up those files you have to take help from the Thunderbird option as .EML files.
• Go to your thunderbird account and select the items for backup.
• After that open the Save as Option.

• Next, choose the destination to store the backup and press Select Folder.

• Now, your preferred emails will be saved as. EML files and can be accessed from any email client.

With the above-mentioned steps, the manual technique comes to an end. Although this is an effective method but before going ahead users must be aware of certain limitations associated with this technique. 

Drawbacks of Manual Method

• If you are a non-technical or beginner user then this methodology is not suitable for you.
• The manual mode takes long hours to complete the backup process.
• Data security and integrity are not maintained by this technique.
• The performance of this method depends on the successful implementation of the steps.

These are some of the issues with the manual approach that makes it a less preferable mode. Thus, if you want to backup thunderbird emails with the most appropriate method then you can take help from third-party software like DRS Thunderbird Backup Tool.

Professional Method to Save Thunderbird emails to External Drive

DRS Thunderbird Backup Tool is an innovative tool that enables users to backup and store thunderbird emails into multiple other file formats or email clients. Additionally, the tool can also store your emails into a local drive without any change in your data. This is an automated software that does not require any technical skill or knowledge to use it.

If you want to skip duplicate emails or attachments from your mailbox then you can opt for the option at the time of backup. Moreover, users can use the mail filter option and select specific emails that are required. The utility also contributes its users with a free demo version and tech support in case of any query. If you want to use this software to backup thunderbird emails then proceed with the steps that are cited below.

Steps of the Professional Method 

• Install the DRS Thunderbird Mail Backup Tool on your PC.

• Choose the desired items for backup and go Next.

• Select the file format or email client in which you want to backup your emails.

• Now, you can use the advanced features provided by the tool. Then to proceed further hit on the Convert button.

• Now, the software will complete the backup process and within a few seconds, it will provide you with the process report. You can also download the report or otherwise click on the Convert again option to repeat the process.

Conclusion

From this post, we have learned about two approaches to solve the query of “How to backup Thunderbird local folders”? The automated method is a more reliable and safe technique than the manual mode. It has all the functionalities that can assist in backup emails effortlessly.   Hence, users are recommended to choose the best option and accomplish their goal.