Upgrading from an older version of Thunderbird

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  • Revision id: 276990
  • Created:
  • Creator: Wayne Mery
  • Comment: needs a lot more work
  • Reviewed: Yes
  • Reviewed:
  • Reviewed by: rtanglao
  • 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

During a version update, some versions of Thunderbird perform data and other conversions (for example address book data) to enable new capabilities. If you skip an important version, then Thunderbird may not work, you may have missing or incorrect data, or other complications may occur. To avoid this, closely follow these directions.

During this process, third-party add-ons may require an update, or may no longer work on newer versions of Thunderbird.

Check which version of Thunderbird you currently have installed using Find what version of Thunderbird you are using.

Important: Before upgrading, always back up your profile. Please see Profiles - Where Thunderbird stores your messages and other user data for more information. Also ensure your computer is compatible with the latest version of Thunderbird.


If you are on version 60 or below

Due to changes with how the address book is stored, you need to be on version 60, then 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.