Learn the Basics. Get Started

The difference between IMAP and POP3

Thunderbird gives users the choice between using IMAP or POP3. This documentation will explain the major differences between these protocols.

Thunderbird and Gmail

Thunderbird can be set up to work seamlessly with Google's Gmail. Messages will be synchronized between your local version of Thunderbird and web-based Gmail.

New in Thunderbird 91

Detailed introduction to the most interesting new features, improvements, and changes visible to users in Thunderbird 91.0.

Ignoring threads

The Ignore Thread (or Subthread) feature is very useful for mailing lists. It lets you skip reading the rest of a conversation you're not really interested in.

Cannot send messages

If you cannot send messages with Thunderbird, this page provides a series of steps you can follow to check for common problems.

Make Thunderbird the Default Mail Client

If Thunderbird is specified as your system's default email application, it will integrate with other applications (such as word processors and web browsers).

Protect your Thunderbird passwords with a Master Password

Make Thunderbird require you to enter a master password in order to view or use passwords you've told Thunderbird to remember.

Installing an Add-on in Thunderbird

Add-ons add functionality to Thunderbird or change its appearance. Learn how to install add-ons to Thunderbird.

Maildir in Thunderbird

Optional support for Maildir allows you to store email as individual files, unlike the default single file format. Learn about Maildir in Thunderbird.