Windows 10 reached EOS (end of support) on October 14, 2025. If you are on Windows 10, see this article.

Avatar for Username

Search Support

Avoid support scams. We will never ask you to call or text a phone number or share personal information. Please report suspicious activity using the “Report Abuse” option.

Learn More

This thread was archived. Please ask a new question if you need help.

Copy Thunderbird to new computer

  • 4 replies
  • 1 has this problem
  • 108 views
  • Last reply by nancyeddy
  • Solved

rdarling
rdarling

I am trying to install Thunderbird into a new computer with Windows 11. When I try to run, it goes to a configuration page but will not connect after finding my account. I have double-checked password, but it says "Unable to log in at server . . . ".

I have uninstalled and reinstalled new program, but get the same response each time. I want to install Thunderbird (and Firefox) and copy my profiles from my old computer to the new one. I am not able to do either. I have followed the online instructions for moving/migrating both, but neither work. Any suggestions?

Rad

I am trying to install Thunderbird into a new computer with Windows 11. When I try to run, it goes to a configuration page but will not connect after finding my account. I have double-checked password, but it says "Unable to log in at server . . . ". I have uninstalled and reinstalled new program, but get the same response each time. I want to install Thunderbird (and Firefox) and copy my profiles from my old computer to the new one. I am not able to do either. I have followed the online instructions for moving/migrating both, but neither work. Any suggestions? Rad

Chosen solution

This works if followed carefully: Here is the link for moving a profile in Windows when installed in default location: 

https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/moving-thunderbird-data-to-a-new-computer

here is the info in brief steps:

  1. ensure thunderbird is NOT running on old machine
  2. enter %appdata% in search window on task bar and press Enter key
  3. this should open windows file explorer in Appdata\roaming folder
  4. highlight the Thunderbird folder and copy to external media
  5. ensure thunderbird is installed on second computer, started once and NOT running
  6. enter %appdata% in search window on task bar and press Enter key
  7. you should be in Appdata\roaming folder , copy&paste the exported Thunderbird folder there. This may prompt to overwrite an existing folder of same name. allow it
  8. start thunderbird and all should be there
Read this answer in context 👍 2

All Replies (4)

david
david
  • Top 10 Contributor

Chosen Solution

This works if followed carefully: Here is the link for moving a profile in Windows when installed in default location: 

https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/moving-thunderbird-data-to-a-new-computer

here is the info in brief steps:

  1. ensure thunderbird is NOT running on old machine
  2. enter %appdata% in search window on task bar and press Enter key
  3. this should open windows file explorer in Appdata\roaming folder
  4. highlight the Thunderbird folder and copy to external media
  5. ensure thunderbird is installed on second computer, started once and NOT running
  6. enter %appdata% in search window on task bar and press Enter key
  7. you should be in Appdata\roaming folder , copy&paste the exported Thunderbird folder there. This may prompt to overwrite an existing folder of same name. allow it
  8. start thunderbird and all should be there
rdarling
rdarling Question owner

Many, many Thanks, David. I have been fighting this for three days, but now, with your help, I have Thunderbird up and running. I am not a computer nerd, so your simple, straightforward answer was extremely helpful. I will now try to do the same with Firefox. Yes, I am a glutton for punishment.

Thank you, Sir.

Rad

david
david
  • Top 10 Contributor

I was glad to assist. You are most welcome. :)

nancyeddy
nancyeddy

Going to try this tomorrow. Too exhausted after fighting with the program/computer all afternoon.