One of the more common issues that people experience during the switch to Microsoft Outlook involves migration of EML files which are used in other email clients. In this blog, the two main approaches to accomplish a task to import EML to Outlook, namely manual and automated approaches, are going to be examined, with their strengths and weaknesses outlined.
Understanding EML Files
An EML is basically an Email Message file that is used with different E-mail clients including Mozilla Thunderbird, Windows Live Mail, and many others to store single & multiple emails in a separate file. In the case of emails, the EML file comprises the email subject, the actual text of the email, any attachments and header information. Nevertheless, Outlook mainly uses PST (Personal Storage Table) files making the use of EML format to require conversion or import.
Why Import EML to Outlook
Import EML files into Outlook is essential for several reasons:
- Centralization: Thus, using the present application for multiple email accounts allows users to store past conversations in one interface.
- Enhanced Features: Advanced customization tools for working with emails Outlook contains features which may be missing in other e-mail clients.
- Compatibility: Since outlook is the most common and popular email platform, its integration with other business applications is guaranteed.
Manual Methods to Import EML to Outlook
Drag and Drop Method
Save on the desktop directly is one of the most convenient ways of copying EML files to Outlook using the drag-and-drop method. Here’s how to do it:
- Launch the Microsoft Outlook from your computer.
- Go to the location of the EML files on your computer.
- To import, choose which EML files you want to import. By right-clicking on a file with the computer mouse and then by pressing the ‘Ctrl’ key while choosing other files.
- Arrange the selected files in the folder of Outlook (E. g. Inbox, Sent Item).
- Make sure the emails are correctly imported in the list.
Advantages:
- Simplicity: This method is simple and there is no need for any other tool to perform this procedure.
- Speed: However, it is operational for small batches of emails because typing it out saves time compared to using a keyboard.
Disadvantages:
- Limited Capacity: Bulk import EML files into Outlook can be disastrous for the application or result in loss of data.
- Attachment Issues: This may be due to the fact that some of the attachments may not work well after the import.
Import via Windows Live Mail
If you have Windows Live Mail installed on your computer it assists you in the migration of EML files to Outlook.
- Finally, open the Windows Live Mail and proceed to import the EML files in the system.
- After transfer, locate the emails in windows live mail folder, then, drag the emails into outlook application.
Advantages:
- Batch Processing: This method enables the user to import several emails at a go.
Disadvantages:
- Dependency on Third-Party tool: This method involves the use of Window Live Mail which might not be installed in all systems.
- Complexity: New users of Windows Live Mail may find this process to be slightly complicated.
Automated Methods to Import EML to Outlook
Using EML to PST Converter Tool
Regarding the large number of EML files, the considered methods will be a perfect solution for their processing. There are also specific professional Shoviv EML to PST converter tool that come with a smooth graphical user interface in addition to superior features that hold the potential to speed up the import process.
Advantages:
- Efficiency: They can handle multiple EML files at a time and the work can be accomplished in less time as compared to manual methods.
- Data Integrity: Attachments and the original structure of the mail can be retained to a great extent in the case of the use of automated tools.
- User-Friendly: Almost all converter tools are tailored for the users of different levels meaning that any person can convert the data in the simplest ways.
Disadvantages:
- Cost: This is especially so when some of the tools labeled as automatic will need the user to pay for or even subscribe depending on the service.
- Learning Curve: However, as it will be seen some tools may be easy to use but will take a short time to fully comprehend its use.
Conclusion
Therefore, when selecting between Manual and Automated modes for the import EML to Outlook, the user should establish their requirement with regard to the number of emails they want to transfer. With the other method, which is the manual operation, only small batches can be handled, and the users must be skilled enough to perform direct operations such as drag and drop. On the other hand, there are fully automated tools for the mentioned transfer as the Shoviv EML to PST converter, which provide greater reliability and faster working for large-scale migration and easy further use.
Finally, the final choice will be based on the skills of working with technology, the number of messages to be migrated, and the need for correspondence organization and the presence of different attachments. Thus, through the comparison of these aspects, users can choose the option that will allow them to effectively transfer their emails to Outlook.
