How to Upload Old MBOX Files to Hotmail Account?

Do you know how you can import MBOX to Hotmail? If not, then in this article, I am going to explain the reasons to move your MBOX file and then provide the ways to access the files. In addition, I am also going to explore the issues while uploading the MBOX file, so read the article to the end.

Most users use the MBOX file to store multiple emails and their associated data. Because it is very common, many programs support the file, including Thunderbird, Apple Mail, Google Takeout, Notepad, etc. MBOX file uses plain text format, which keeps your email messages and attachments together in a single file.

Whereas Hotmail, or now Outlook.com, is a web-based email solution. Accessing and working with this program is much easier. But if you are thinking of accessing the MBOX file in your Hotmail account. Then, I am going to help you.

What are the Reasons to Import MBOX to Hotmail?

Before we continue with the methods to import the MBOX file, first let’s see the reasons to move your MBOX files to Hotmail.

• Because Hotmail is a web-based service, importing your file makes it easier for you to access your data across platforms.
• If you are switching from Thunderbird, Apple Mail to Hotmail, then you need to move your data.
• For backup purposes, you are importing your MBOX file into your Hotmail account.

These are the common reasons to upload the MBOX file to Hotmail. Now, I am going to explain the ways to import the file.

Save Hotmail Emails Before Importing Files

Microsoft discontinued the services of Hotmail service. But there are still old users who can access their old account and import the MBOX file. But moving a new file into the old Hotmail is a risky process. So, before you go through the process, it is best to take a backup of your Hotmail mailbox. For this, SysTools Hotmail Backup Tool would be a great option to store your data. After that, follow the steps of the method mentioned below.

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How to Import MBOX to Hotmail?

There is no direct import option to move MBOX files to Hotmail. Therefore, I have to use the Thunderbird program for the process. This method is going to be lengthy, so I divided it into two parts. The first part is to configure your Hotmail account in Thunderbird. So, make sure your Hotmail is enabled for IMAP and then follow the steps below.

1. First, log in to your Thunderbid account. And click on the three bars at the top-right corner of the screen.
2. Select the Account Settings and then click on the Account Action option.
3. Choose Add a Mail Account button.
4. Enter your Hotmail email address, password, and username. Press the Continue button.
5. Click on the IMAP option, and Thunderbird automatically connects with your Hotmail.

Once your account is configured, open the MBOX file. To do this, first install the Import/Export Tools NG addon.

Move MBOX File to Configured Hotmail Account

1. From the folder panel of Thunderbird, choose the folder or create a new folder.
2. After that, right-click on the folder and select the Import/Export Tools NG option.
3. Choose Import MBOX files. If there is a single file, then click on import individual MBOX files. If you have multiple files, then choose All MBOX files from the directory.
4. Browse the location where your MBOX file is located and open it in Thunderbird.
5. Move the folder to the Hotmail account. You can individually move the emails by the drag and drop option.

So, this is the process to import MBOX to Hotmail. It is free to use, but some users may face issues while following the steps.

Limitations of Using the Above Method

If you properly follow the above steps, then there will be no issue in moving the files. However, below are some issues that you may face.

• The method is a lengthy process, so it will take time to move your files, especially when you have multiple files.
• If the Hotmail account is not properly configured, then it will be difficult for you to import the files.
• There is are chance that your data will be deleted during the process.

These are major issues that you encounter when you are moving your MBOX file to Hotmail. To tackle them, our experts suggest several tips and tricks.

Expert Tips to Avoid Importing Issues

• Before you import your MBOX file, make sure you take a backup of your MBOX file as well as your Hotmail account. To prevent any data loss or corruption.
• Check your MBOX file for any corruption issues or missing data before going through the process.
• Make sure that your Hotmail account has enough storage space. If the mailbox is almost full, reduce it to store new data.
• IMAP must be active when you are moving to a Hotmail account. Also, check the server details if you need to manually configure the account.
• There must be a fast and stable internet connection during the importing process. Switch to a high-speed connection before you go through the process.

By following these tips and tricks, you can easily access your MBOX file in your Hotmail account.

Users’ Commonly Asked Questions

Does Hotmail support MBOX format?
No, Hotmail does not support MBOX files. If you want to import the MBOX file into Htomail, you must take the help of an MBOX-supported email client.

Will the MBOX file affect my existing Hotmail mailbox?
Yes, there are chances that the MBOX file that you have imported may affect your existing mailbox. So, it is better to take a backup of your Hotmail mailbox to protect it from any issues.

Is it possible to move multiple MBOX files to Hotmail at once?
No, the manual method does not import bulk MBOX files. You have to upload it one by one to your Hotmail account.

Can I import my MBOX files to Hotmail from a Mac OS device?
Yes, you have to just open the MBOX file in Apple Mail, then configure the Hotmail account in the email client.

In Conclusion

In this article, I have explained how you can import MBOX to Hotmail. Here, I have explained a proper step-by-step process to move your MBOX files. In addition to that, I have also discussed the issues you will get and the expert tips to avoid them.