Do you still need a mailbox provider?
Yes. Thunderbird connects to the account your provider already hosts. Follow that provider’s sign-in requirements and check which addresses it lets you send from. Installing Thunderbird does not change where incoming mail for your domain goes.
What is the difference between synced mail and a copy?
IMAP keeps selected folders in step with the provider’s mailbox. If you delete a synced message, that change can be reflected on the server. Check which folders and full messages are available offline before relying on the desktop profile as a backup.
A synchronized inbox is convenient for working on multiple devices. Plan a separate copy if you need to recover mail after someone deletes it.
What do you pay for?
Thunderbird’s desktop app is free. The mailbox provider can still charge for storage or accounts. Check whether your provider and plan allow an external desktop app before switching.
Can you bring your Thunderbird setup to another computer?
The desktop Export tool backs up the Thunderbird profile, including local messages and settings. Its built-in archive supports up to 2 GB. Mozilla documents copying the profile folder for larger profiles.
Check that the mail you need was actually downloaded. A profile backup is for restoring Thunderbird, so check the destination’s accepted formats when moving to a different mail service.
How would you check whether a backup contains the mail you need?
Make a pretend inbox on paper. List a synced folder, one message available only from the server and a copy you want to keep.
- Mark what needs to open offlineWrite which messages and attachments you must still be able to read without access to the old account.
- Choose the destinationMark whether you are restoring Thunderbird or moving to a different provider.
- Check before retiring anythingPlan to open a sample copy and compare its contents before closing the original mailbox.