MailSpool.....sounds like you are using a linux OS ? when you created the mail account you must have selected to use the MoveMail option. Located some info on 'MoveMail'... http://www.pantz.org/software/thunderbird/thunderbirdandmovemail.html This link does show where a 'MoveMail' option was selected. http://askubuntu.com/questions/1916/how-can-i-access-system-mail-in-var-mail-via-thunderbird However, if you did not want this then you would need to delete the account and start again, but do not select 'MoveMail'. You need to create POP or IMAP mail accounts using the wizard via this method: 'Menu icon' > 'New Message' > 'Existing Mail account' Enter name. email address and password click on 'Continue' button Make sure the correct type is selected..POP or IMAP. You can use 'Manual config' button if you need to alter anything.