Thunderbird does all of that, has been around for 20+ years, used by 10s of 1,000s, and by many businesses. However, no software can guarantee no problems ever, although I have never had a problem. If you're using as a business, I encourage doing periodic backups, not because Thunderbird is fragile, but because it's for a business. I am amazed at the number of businesses that post here with a problem and have years of data lost because they never ran backups. Thunderbird is easy to setup. If you have questions at any time, just post them here.

Thanks for the response. OUTLOOK was a years ago problem long forgotten by never gotten over. I have people that "back up" but who is to say they do what they are paid to do? I certainly have been led down the rosey path a few times only to get the thorns they'd been saving to thrust on me at will.

Is there someone knowledgeable that does this sort of set up/maintenance/gal or guy Friday that is worth their fare?

Thunderbird is easy to backup, provided you follow some guidelines, but my inference is that you are seeking to hire someone to manage your accounts? If so, that isn't a service provided here -- although, I can give instructions on the best way to do that if you do eventually decide to use Thunderbird. And, YES, I have seen many people post here for assistance who had backups that did not work.