How to Install Thunderbird Email in Windows Vista

Mozilla Thunderbird is the open source alternative to Microsoft Outlook. Thunderbird is free and can be downloaded for an easy install in Windows.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Windows PC
• Internet Connection
• Compatible E-Mail Account

1. 
   This is the Thunderbird Project Homepage

   Point your web browser to the Thunderbird homepage. Thunderbird is part of the Mozilla foundation, creator of the popular web browser Mozilla Firefox. Once there, click on the big "Download Thunderbird" button.

2. 
   If you use Firefox, this Download Prompt Will Pop Up

   The file should begin to download automatically. Save the file on your computer somewhere that you will remember. If you have cable or DSL internet, the download should only take under a minute.

3. 
   Thunderbird Installation Wizard

   Open the file and allow Windows Vista to continue installation when the security pop up box opens. Click next to do a standard installation when prompted and accept the terms of use. Installation will continue automatically.

4. 
   Account Wizard

   Click finish to launch Thunderbird. When opened the first time, you will have the option to import contacts and other information from Outlook. Do so if you wish and continue to the program. Follow the wizard to add e-mail, RSS, and newsgroups. You will need information about your e-mail server and website feeds to do this.

Tips & Warnings

• It is best to have your e-mail server information together before installation. That way you can install and setup the program all at once.
• This is an open source program, so many useful add ons and extensions exist and can be downloaded for free.
• Make sure you have a computer that will handle the program. All PCs with Windows Vista pre-installed should work fine.

Resources

• Thunderbird Home
• Thunderbird Support
• Thunderbird FAQ

[alishacra]

on 3/30/2009 Thanks for the information!

[scleveland]

on 3/25/2009 Thanks for the great tips. Something I will definitely look into.