How to Backup and Recover Emails in Windows Live Mail

Ensure your important emails are safe! Learn how to easily back up and restore your Windows Live Mail data in a few simple steps.

Why Backing Up Your Live Mail Emails is Essential

Regular backups help you avoid data loss from computer crashes, migrate to new email clients, and secure your communication history. Learn why you should start backing up today.

  • Avoid data loss due to system crashes
  • Transfer emails to a new computer
  • prepare for migrating to a new email client

How to Backup Emails in Windows Live Mail

  • Open Windows Live Mail
  • Go to File ➔ Export ➔ Email Messages
  • Choose Microsoft Windows Live Mail format
  • Select export location ( external drive recommended)
  • Complete export

How to Recover Emails from a Windows Live Mail Backup

  • Open Windows Live Mail
  • Go to File ➔ Import ➔ Email Messages
  • Locate your backup folder
  • Complete import and verify messages

Common Backup and Recovery Issues in Windows Live Mail

Export Process Stuck During Windows Live Mail Backup

Some users report that the export process freezes or crashes midway when backing up Windows Live Mail emails.
Solution:
Restart Windows Live Mail and your computer. Then, run the program as an administrator and retry the export process.
Ensure you have enough disk space available for the backup.

Cannot Find the Backup Folder After Export

After exporting your Windows Live Mail emails, the backup folder might not appear where you expect it.
Solution:
Make sure you selected a visible drive (like C: or an external USB drive).
Check under C:\\Users\\[YourName]\\Documents\\Windows Live Mail Backups.
If still missing, re-export and select a clear path manually.

Missing Emails After Windows Live Mail Recovery

Sometimes after importing a backup, not all emails reappear in your folders.
Solution:
During the import process, carefully select the correct backup folder that contains your .eml files.
Also, double-check folder structure settings under ‘Import Options’ to ensure complete data restoration.

Need More Help?

If you encounter issues during backup or recovery, visit our Help Center for expert troubleshooting and step-by-step guides