Upgrading from an older version of Thunderbird

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  • Revision id: 276950
  • Created:
  • Creator: Roland Tanglao
  • Comment: wip, needs approval from Wayne or Thunderbird review
  • Reviewed: Yes
  • Reviewed:
  • Reviewed by: wsmwk
  • Is approved? Yes
  • Is current revision? No
  • Ready for localization: No
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Still on an older version of Thunderbird and looking to upgrade? Luckily, the process is fairly straight-forward.

Before we begin

Third-party add-ons may require an update, or may no longer work on newer versions of Thunderbird. During the upgrade process, Thunderbird may prompt you about any such add-ons.

Important: The first thing you should always do before upgrading is to back up your profile. Please see Profiles - Where Thunderbird stores your messages and other user data for more information.

Once you have done that, ensure your computer is compatible with the latest version of Thunderbird.

Next, you'll want to check which version of Thunderbird you currently have installed. Please see Find what version of Thunderbird you are using for more information.

If you are on version 60 or below

Due to changes with how the address book is stored, you will have to manually upgrade to version 60 first. This will allow you to upgrade to 68 and then to 78. Thunderbird 78 will upgrade your address book to the newer format that later Thunderbird versions use.

First, download and install 60.9.1

Important: Once you have upgraded, open Thunderbird at least once before continuing.

Second, upgrade to version 78

Repeat the following steps twice (first upgrade to 68: 60.9.1 to 68.12.1 and second upgrade to 78: 68.12.1 to 78.14) until you are at version 78 or above:

  • Click ≡ > Help > About Thunderbird (About Mozilla Thunderbird in TB60)
  • Click Restart Thunderbird ({Restart to update Thunderbird in TB60)
  • Wait for the newly upgraded Thunderbird to open

Now that you're on version 78, you can follow the directions for the full upgrade below.

If you are on version 78 or above

You're all set to upgrade to the latest version! Simply head on over to thunderbird.net, and click Download, and install the latest version of Thunderbird over your Thunderbird 78 install once it is downloaded.

And that's it, you've now upgraded to the latest version of Thunderbird! The interface may have changed a bit from the version you were previously on. We recommend spending a bit of time familiarizing yourself with any interface changes.

Need help?

Don't hesitate to reach out if you need assistance. We have a fantastic Support Knowledge Base with pre-existing topics that may be of use. Can't find a topic for your particular need, try asking a question to our dedicated community.