Search Support

Avoid support scams. We will never ask you to call or text a phone number or share personal information. Please report suspicious activity using the “Report Abuse” option.

Learn More

Can't import data from earlier Thunderbird installation

  • 2 replies
  • 4 have this problem
  • 26 views
  • Last reply by gp

more options

I have a new desktop running Windows 10. I've had Thunderbird as a mail client for years, but I can't import the old settings from the old computer. Part of it is that I have only the default profile to work from; I no longer have access to the entire older installation.

I've tried two ways: Import from another Thunderbird installation, but it apparently does not recognize that default profile file. I get an error message saying: "Import failed unexpectedly, more information may be available in the Error Console." However, there is no indication of where I can find the Error Console.

So I tried setting up a new account, with the old password and user name, which I can still use to access my inbox online. But I get another error message saying the password is not correct. No matter what I change it to, whether the secure mail key or the latest password, it says the password is incorrect.

Please help!

I have a new desktop running Windows 10. I've had Thunderbird as a mail client for years, but I can't import the old settings from the old computer. Part of it is that I have only the default profile to work from; I no longer have access to the entire older installation. I've tried two ways: Import from another Thunderbird installation, but it apparently does not recognize that default profile file. I get an error message saying: "Import failed unexpectedly, more information may be available in the Error Console." However, there is no indication of where I can find the Error Console. So I tried setting up a new account, with the old password and user name, which I can still use to access my inbox online. But I get another error message saying the password is not correct. No matter what I change it to, whether the secure mail key or the latest password, it says the password is incorrect. Please help!

All Replies (2)

more options

I finally figured it out. I had to go into my account online (My AT&T) and muddle through until I found the section where I can set up a new secure mail key.

At least I can now download my incoming email.

more options

Thanks for closing this report by setting your reply as solution. For your information, the error console is under Tools / dev tools.