Move Your Windows Live
Mail to Outlook, Safely and
Seamlessly in 2025

Easily transfer all your emails, contacts, and folders from Windows Live Mail to Outlook with zero data loss

Start Migrating Now

EML vs. PST — Choose the Right Method for You

Understand the advantages of each before transferring your Windows Live Mail data.

.EML Files

Pros:
  • Simple to export and view individually.
  • Compatible with many email clients.
  • Easy to back up or share specific messages.
Cons:
  • Folder structure must be recreated manually.
  • Read/unread status may not transfer.
  • Less efficient for large-scale migrations.

PST Files

Pros:
  • Ideal for complete migration to Outlook or Office 365.
  • Keeps folder hierarchy, attachments, and metadata intact.
  • Easier to import and manage in Outlook.
Cons:
  • Requires Outlook to open and manage.
  • Larger file size, slower to copy or transfer.
  • Not compatible with non-Microsoft email clients.

Learn How to Transfer Windows Live Mail Contacts to Outlook

Follow our easy resource guide to export, import, and organize your contacts from Windows Live Mail into Outlook without losing any details.

1
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Export

Go to Contacts → Export → choose CSV or vCard (.VCF) → Save

2
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Import

File → Open & Export → Import/Export → Import from CSV/VCF → Next

3
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Map Fields

Match Name/Email fields → Finish → open People to review

4
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Organize

Create folders/categories → sort by name/company

5
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Fix Issues

Manage Duplicates / Clean Up in Outlook → re-import specific entries if needed

Preserve Email Structure and Automate Migration Safely

Keep your folders, attachments, and message status intact while moving to Outlook.

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Use the Built-In Export Tool

In Windows Live Mail, go to File → Export → Email Messages → Microsoft Exchange for reliable folder mapping.

Prevent Data Loss or Duplicates During Sync

Follow these quick checks to keep your emails clean, synced, and duplicate-free during migration.

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  • Back Up Before Syncing Export all emails and contacts before connecting new accounts.
  • Use One Protocol Choose IMAP or Exchange, not both, to avoid duplicate messages.
  • Sync One Account at a Time Reduce errors by connecting accounts separately.
  • Verify After Sync Compare message counts and folders to confirm full transfer.

Fix Common Migration Errors and Verify Your Outlook Data

Resolve transfer issues, confirm your data integrity, and keep your Outlook folders organized after migration.

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Identify Common Migration Errors

Look out for missing folders, attachment errors, or unrecognized file formats during transfer. Most occur when file paths or permissions are restricted.

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Fix Format Conflicts

If Outlook rejects .EML files, use the PST export method or a trusted conversion tool. Ensure both programs are updated before retrying.

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Verify Transferred Data

After migration, compare email counts, folders, and timestamps between Windows Live Mail and Outlook to confirm full transfer.

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Organize Folders in Outlook

Create a clear folder structure and archive older mail to keep Outlook running smoothly. Use Search Folders or Rules to categorize messages automatically.

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Complete Your Migration with Confidence

Ensure every message, contact, and folder moves safely to Outlook, without data loss or confusion.

Migrating from Windows Live Mail to Outlook doesn’t have to be complicated. By following verified export methods, checking your data after transfer, and keeping organized backups, you can achieve a smooth, reliable migration every time.

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