Secure Way to Import IMAP Email to Gmail Account

Several users wish to import IMAP email to Gmail as Gmail offers several security features and functionalities to the users. But sometimes, some users find it challenging to perform the migration from IMAP email to Gmail. So, we are here to help you out with the best methods of conversion. 

In this blog, we have thoroughly explained all the possible methods including a professional IMAP Email Backup utility and a native solution. When you read the procedure, you can choose the perfect technique to import IMAP email to your Gmail Account. However, we will begin with an elaborate explanation of IMAP and Gmail. 

Introduction to IMAP Email and Gmail

IMAP also known as Internet Message Access Protocol is a protocol used by various email clients to retrieve and access emails from a mail server. Almost all the servers and email clients support IMAP.  It acts as an intermediary between the server and the email client. IMAP receives complete management of mailboxes by various email clients. Also, it allows the user to access email from any device or location. 

On the other hand, Gmail is a widely used free email client developed by Google.  It is mostly used to send and receive emails over the internet. Gmail allows you to send multiple emails to multiple users at a time. It supports the use of other email clients with the IMAP and POP protocol. With Gmail, you get 15 GB of storage space completely free of cost. Furthermore, it is accessible with a web browser and a mobile device. 

Why Do Users Wish to Import IMAP Email to Gmail?

Let’s figure out the most common reasons to migrate IMAP email to Gmail:

• Users wish to import IMAP to Gmail as Gmail offers multiple security features. 
• Gmail is more fast and effective when compared to IMAP Emails.
• It is widely compatible and works well on both browsers and mobile devices.
• Also, Gmail offers a simple and enhanced GUI to the users for better understanding.
• By converting IMAP to Gmail, you can also integrate with multiple Google products. 

Proven Methods to Migrate IMAP to Gmail

There are two ways to migrate IMAP email to Gmail either by a manual procedure or using a professional tool. We will discuss both methods, first, we will discuss a manual solution and then a professional. 

Manual Guide to Import IMAP Emails to Gmail

1. First, log in to your Gmail account using your email address and password.
2. Now, click on the Settings button and later choose the option “See All Settings”.
3. Further, select the Account options and then hit the Import tab.
4. Afterwards, from the Check Mail from Other Accounts option, select “Add a Mail account”.
5. Then, enter your email ID from which you wish to import emails from IMAP to Gmail.
6. After that, choose to link accounts or select import email from my other accounts. 
7. Next, go to the Next button and enter the required ID password.
8. Now, hit the Sign in button and also enable the displayed permission in the Save button.
9. Ultimately, press the Close button and you are done. 

Limitations of the Manual Method

The pitfalls faced by the users of the manual method are as follows:

• The manual method needs a lot of effort and time.
• The users who is trying to do using this method must have technical knowledge.
• You may or may not get the desired outcome.
• The steps of this method are very lengthy.
• Also, it gets complicated for some users to understand this method.
• There are chances that your data might get corrupted during the migration process. 

Professional Method to Migrate IMAP Email to Gmail Directly 

IMAP Email Backup Tool is one of the most reliable tools to import IMAP email to Gmail and various other email clients. This tool assists in importing emails as well as mailbox items like calendars, tasks, and contacts. It also allows you to preview the mailbox folder before the migration process. You can even set a scheduled migration of the IMAP items. It also enables you to skip the items that are already migrated. Moreover, you can convert IMAP email to Gmail even without attachments. 

Steps to Migrate IMAP Email to Gmail

Have a look at the steps of the tool to import IMAP email to Gmail account:

• First of all, install the IMAP Email Backup Tool and then run it on your PC or laptop.
• Next, enter your email address, password, and hostname, and then click login. 
• Now choose the IMAP ID and hit the Next button.
• You can also preview the folders on the login IMAP account.
• Then, choose the folders from the tree structure.
• Further, in Saves/Backup/Migrate as option, choose the Gmail email client and authenticate the login process.
• At last, hit the convert button and you’re done. 

To Sum Up

Users who wish to migrate IMAP to Gmail account can easily import it after reading this full blog. As in this guide, we have covered a detailed explanation of various methods to import IMAP Email to Gmail. Both the manual process and professional tool are discussed in this blog. Now the users can pick any method according to their choice and requirements. But as per our suggestion, you should go with a professional tool if you want an accurate and effective conversion. 

You May Also Read: Migrate IMAP to Office 365 & Export IMAP Emails to PST File.