Ways to Import PST Files to Mozilla Thunderbird Email Server

Outlook PST file is one of the most widely used file formats for email storage. However, with the rise of open-source email clients such as Thunderbird, users are looking for ways to convert their Outlook PST file into a more compatible format. In this article, we will explore the steps to convert Outlook PST files into Thunderbird MBOX.

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What is a PST file?

PST file is a proprietary file format used by Microsoft Outlook to store email messages, contacts, calendar items, and other data. PST files can be very large, and they tend to slow down Outlook's performance over time. Furthermore, PST files are not compatible with other email clients such as Thunderbird, which is why users often need to convert their PST files into a more universal format.

What is an MBOX file?

MBOX is a file format used by many email clients, including Thunderbird, to store email messages. MBOX files are more flexible than PST files, as they can be easily imported into other email clients or transferred between different computers. MBOX files are also easier to manage, as they are stored in a single file rather than being split into multiple files like PST files.

How to convert Outlook PST files into Thunderbird MBOX?

There are several ways to convert Outlook PST file into Thunderbird MBOX, including manual methods and third-party tools. Here we will know about the most convenient methods.

Also read: Exporting Microsoft Outlook PST File to Thunderbird

Method 1: Export PST file to EML files, and then import them into Thunderbird

This method involves exporting each email message from the PST file as an EML file and then importing these files into Thunderbird.

• Step 1: Open Outlook and select the folder you want to export.
• Step 2: Click on File > Options > Advanced > Export.
• Step 3: Choose "Export to a file," from the menu and then hit "Next."
• Step 4: Choose "Microsoft Exchange," and then click "Next."
• Step 5: Select the folder you want to export, and then click "Next."
• Step 6: Choose a location to save the exported file, and then click "Finish."
• Step 7: Open Thunderbird and select the folder you want to import the emails into.
• Step 8: Click on File > Import > EML files.
• Step 9: Select the EML files you want to import, and then click "Open."
• Step 10: Wait for the import process to complete.

Method 2: Use a third-party tool to convert the PST file into MBOX

There are several third-party tools available that can convert PST files into MBOX files. Here we will discuss one of the most popular tools, which is called "GainTools PST to MBOX Converter"

• Step 1: Download and install "PST to MBOX Converter."
• Step 2: Launch "PST Converter" and then click "Load."
• Step 3: Select the PST file you want to convert, and then click "Open."
• Step 4: Choose the items you want to convert (email messages, contacts, calendar items, etc.), and then click "Next."
• Step 5: Choose "MBOX" as the output format, and then click "Next."
• Step 6: Choose a location to save the converted MBOX file, and then click "Finish."
• Step 7: Open Thunderbird and click on File > Import > MBOX file.
• Step 8: Select the MBOX file you just converted, and then click "Open."
• Step 9: Wait for the conversion process to be completed.

Conclusion

Converting Outlook PST file into Thunderbird MBOX can be a bit challenging, especially if you are not familiar with the process. However, by following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to successfully convert your PST file into MBOX format and import it.

For solution in spanish: Convertir archivos PST de Outlook a MBOX