How to export database of Zimbra to other file formats in an easy manner?


Zimbra users several times need to export database of Zimbra email client to other file formats to read Zimbra database into other email clients. If you want to access data of Zimbra desktop to other platforms like Thunderbird, Microsoft Outlook, Apple Mail, etc. then let’s follow this write-up to simply export Zimbra database to other file formats. But before explaining the migration process, let us focus on some important points about Zimbra, its supported file extensions and reasons to move away from Zimbra.

Know about Zimbra and extensions supported by Zimbra

Zimbra desktop is an open-source and free email client that supports TGZ file extension. The file extension holds mails, address book, briefcases, tasks, notes, etc.

Queries of users to export mailboxes from Zimbra –

Query 1. “I have installed MS Outlook to my new system as my previous system has some major issues. Zimbra email client was installed on old system. I have some important TGZ files but I am unable to open these TGZ files in Microsoft Outlook. I have spent several hours in searching for the solution but still, I have not got a suitable solution. Please tell me how to export Zimbra data to Microsoft Outlook.” - Ericson, New York

Query 2. I have more than 50+ TGZ files and I want to open them in Thunderbird application. The manual solution to read TGZ files in Thunderbird is really troublesome. I don’t want to waste my valuable time in exporting the files one by one. Can someone suggest me a direct solution to export TGZ data files in Mozilla Thunderbird? Your help will be appreciated. - Athena, Santa Rosa

Why export Zimbra database? – Know main reasons behind leaving Zimbra

When users need to export database of Zimbra desktop to other email programs, they have to export the database of TGZ file to the targeted email client file format.

There are multiple reasons available to move away from Zimbra client which you can find below –

  • Slow synchronization is Zimbra is one reason with users to move away to other email programs
  • User registration is compulsory for Zimbra account
  • Job switching is one reason with users to move from Zimbra email client

How to export mailboxes from Zimbra?

Now, the question is how to export data from Zimbra email client. For this, first, you need to extract TGZ file from Zimbra desktop. To export mailboxes from Zimbra, follow the steps mentioned below –


  • Open Zimbra application on your system and go to Preference tab from the menu bar
  • Choose Import/Export from the left side of Zimbra application
  • Under Export section, select Zimbra folders and go to Advance setting
  • Check the option to extract and uncheck other options. Then, hit Export button
  • Click on save file option and choose a location to save the file
  • Then, click OK

Once the steps are completed, go to the location where Zimbra files are saved. You will find a zip file. Right-click the file and unzip it using tools like WinRAR.

Download TGZ Exporter – Third-party software

Now, download the Betavare Export TGZ software and you can easily export all data of Zimbra TGZ files to desired email client. The software smartly and easily exports every item of TGZ file in just a few seconds. Using this utility, unlimited database migration in a few minutes gets completed without any trouble.

Users can take advantage of many features in migrating Zimbra database with this software. Here are a few highlighted features of this application.

  • Smooth migration of TGZ files to PST, TGZ to MBOX, TGZ to EML, TGZ to EMLX, TGZ to MSG, TGZ to VCF, and TGZ to ICS
  • Unlimited database migration in a short period of time
  • 100% security of data throughout the migration
  • Export Zimbra TGZ database without Zimbra installation
  • Supports multiple email programs – Outlook, Thunderbird, Mac Mail, Windows Live Mail, and others.

Download free edition and know how to execute the steps of migration

Try out the demo edition to know more about the software and the migration procedure.

  1. Download the software – Install the software successfully and start it.
  2. Add Zimbra TGZ files – Use the Browse button and add TGZ files.
  3. Check the files in preview – Get display of all items of TGZ and go to the Export button.
  4. Select desired output format – Select a file format in which you want to export the files.
  5. Specify location to save the files - Mention a path of your system to save the files and hit Convert Now button to begin the migration process.

Wrapping Up

Now, it will be too easy for every to export database of Zimbra desktop to different email applications after reading this post. The software discussed here is 100% secure and free from risks therefore, render successful outcomes all the time. You can try out the freeware edition first and go for the licensed edition.


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