From Windows Live Mail to Outlook: Top Solutions

Why keep your emails in an outdated system? WLM is now officially discontinued, which means users’ data should be exported and moved elsewhere. MS Outlook is a popular choice worldwide, as it is a well-supported and versatile program. A common corporate standard, it comes with advanced scheduling options, task assignment, and other useful features. But how should the move be managed?

Generally, solutions fall into two categories: manual and automated. Without third-party tools, you will conduct the transfer for free, but results may vary. To ensure the accurate transition from Windows Live Mail to Outlook, take a close look at special utilities. These provide an affordable way to convert as much mail as you need as often as necessary. Here is how the two approaches compare.

email 1

Automated Transfer: Overview

There is no better way to manage the move. Advanced systems provide a unique combination of speed, convenience, and precision. Even the shortest manual path will not guarantee the integrity or readability of data. Here, everything is handled automatically from beginning to end.

Top transfer products are client-specific, which means they were developed especially for the pair. You can transfer thousands of messages from WLM to Outlook in a few minutes. This includes all images and attachments. The transfer is as simple as 1-2-3. Other notable benefits include:

  • all-round compatibility (32- and 64-bit Windows OS, versions of Outlook: 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, 365)
  • intuitive interface clear for everyone regardless of experience;
  • no need to configure the systems;
  • lightning speed;
  • opportunity to move specific files, rather than entire volumes;
  • direct import;
  • import into a standalone *.PST file if necessary.

Manual Transfer: Overview

If mail data is valuable, the manual transfer should be avoided. Here are six steps you could take to manage the move. Both clients must be installed and running on the same device. Success is not guaranteed.

  1. In WLM, click on the Export Option button on the File tab.
  2. Select Email Messages in the Open list.
  3. Select Microsoft Exchange and click Next to continue.
  4. A message “All Email Will Be Exported to Microsoft Outlook or Microsoft Exchange” pops up. Click OK to proceed.
  5. Specify where you need the transferred data to be stored. Click OK to continue.
  6. The Export window pops up. Upon completion, click Finish to finalize the transfer.

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The Bottom Line

As you can see, the manual transfer is not for the faint-hearted. Not only is it lengthy, but it is also potentially harmful. As data may get corrupt or lost, make sure you back it up before attempting the move. As EML files acquire the *.PST extension, they may be damaged beyond repair.

If you look for ways to transport email, its contents are probably valuable. Do not take unnecessary risks. Licensed products from top developers will get the job done quickly and efficiently. Eventually, it is up to you to choose between guaranteed results and risky methods.