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How to move archived messages to a new file
My profile files have grown very large, as I manages a dozen email addresses and have used Thunderbird for many years. I'm looking for a method to archive older messages where I can still access them, and retain the more recent ones for quick review. And shrink the file sizes!
Any ideas?
Thanks
Chosen solution
Thunderbird has a built in archives system that would seem to do what you're asking for.
I'd start by checking your account settings. Archives can split by year and can retain existing folder structure. The resulting files this creates will reduce the size of your current mail store files and spread the load over a larger number of smaller files. It's usually very successful at avoiding 2 or 4 GB file limits. Archive folders are searchable so their contents remain accessible, whilst not creating visual clutter.
https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/archived-messages
My only hesitation in advising this is that some users, including myself, have found that it doesn't always respect the setting to retain folder structure. I think I'd try it in Safe Mode just to eliminate unwanted interaction with any of my too-many addons.
Read this answer in context 👍 0All Replies (2)
Chosen Solution
Thunderbird has a built in archives system that would seem to do what you're asking for.
I'd start by checking your account settings. Archives can split by year and can retain existing folder structure. The resulting files this creates will reduce the size of your current mail store files and spread the load over a larger number of smaller files. It's usually very successful at avoiding 2 or 4 GB file limits. Archive folders are searchable so their contents remain accessible, whilst not creating visual clutter.
https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/archived-messages
My only hesitation in advising this is that some users, including myself, have found that it doesn't always respect the setting to retain folder structure. I think I'd try it in Safe Mode just to eliminate unwanted interaction with any of my too-many addons.
Modified
Many thanks. I did not realize the archiving created separate files.