Email backup.

An email backup plan should begin with the situation you need to recover from. Restoring one deleted attachment, replacing a failed computer, recovering an account, and moving providers each require different information. A copy that supports one scenario may leave another unresolved. Define the intended recovery before deciding which export or storage method is sufficient.

The articles under this tag examine the relationship between local data and server mail. The POP and local backup guide focuses on downloaded messages and retention. The IMAP synchronization guide explains why a synchronized collection needs to be considered carefully when planning independent recovery.

Verify that your chosen method includes the folders, message bodies, and attachments you care about. Open representative older messages from the resulting copy and check how you would retrieve them on another computer. Protect exported mail with appropriate access controls, and document a repeatable process that remains understandable when your usual application is unavailable.