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Can I synchronize Thunderbird between two computers? (Both Macs, same OS version)

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  • Last reply by Wimsey

Wimsey
Wimsey

I want to (temporarily?) have two computers to have exactly the same Thunderbird environment, including all the same local folders, all with the same content. The initial situation will be that I will migrate my iMac's Thunderbird data, settings, etc., to my MacBook Pro, and the iMac will go into storage. (Extensive repairs/upgrades, of the "Move out of the house for a couple of weeks" variety.) During that time, I'll be using the MBP, and will want access to my "sent" folder, as well as all the folders of archived messages. Then, I'll want to move all new stuff on the MBP back to the iMac. My hope is that I can set things up to automatically synchronize the two sets of message folders, keep both machines in use for email access.

Thanks, Wimsey

I want to (temporarily?) have two computers to have exactly the same Thunderbird environment, including all the same local folders, all with the same content. The initial situation will be that I will migrate my iMac's Thunderbird data, settings, etc., to my MacBook Pro, and the iMac will go into storage. (Extensive repairs/upgrades, of the "Move out of the house for a couple of weeks" variety.) During that time, I'll be using the MBP, and will want access to my "sent" folder, as well as all the folders of archived messages. Then, I'll want to move all new stuff on the MBP back to the iMac. My hope is that I can set things up to automatically synchronize the two sets of message folders, keep both machines in use for email access. Thanks, Wimsey

Chosen solution

The only way to do this synchronization permanently is to have your Thunderbird Profile Folder saved somewhere where both computers will always have access to them. Like a Network Access Storage for use just in your home, or a online cloud storage.

Using online cloud storage for this will theoretically do what you want, but there will be problems with Thunderbird being able to access these files quickly, causing Thunderbird to freeze up. Thus I don't recommend this.

As for temporarily switching to another computer, read this: Moving your profile folder

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user1121639
user1121639

Chosen Solution

The only way to do this synchronization permanently is to have your Thunderbird Profile Folder saved somewhere where both computers will always have access to them. Like a Network Access Storage for use just in your home, or a online cloud storage.

Using online cloud storage for this will theoretically do what you want, but there will be problems with Thunderbird being able to access these files quickly, causing Thunderbird to freeze up. Thus I don't recommend this.

As for temporarily switching to another computer, read this: Moving your profile folder

Wimsey
Wimsey Question owner

I share your disenthusiasm for the the online Profile folder.

Even if it wasn't what I hoped to hear, I appreciate the quick response.

Thanks, Wimsey