Outlook 2011 for Mac – Archiving Emails

Here are three different ways to backup or archive individual emails or email folders using Outlook 2011 for Mac. The instructions may seem complicated but after a couple of times it gets easier. I’d recommend archiving on a regular schedule, such as weekly or monthly. Some people like to do it more frequently than others.

For advanced users, these methods can be automated by creating a “Schedule” or “Rule” within Outlook.

Archive emails into an “Archive” folder on your computer. These emails remain accessible within Outlook email on your computer only. If you use another computer they will not be visible.

Archive folders as “.mbox” files. These files can be opened using email programs such as Outlook or Apple Mail. Outlook folders are not deleted from the Outlook server until the last step.

Archive individual emails as “.eml” files. These files can be opened using Outlook or Apple Mail and may provide easier searches and access to single messages. Messages are not deleted from the Outlook server until the last step.