Use Google Takeout to archive emails
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use Google Takeout to archive your Gmail:
1. Go to Google Takeout:
- Open an incognito window in Chrome
- Visit the Google Takeout website: https://takeout.google.com/
- Takeout is designed for the end user, not an administrator. Login using the credentials for the user you wish to archive
2. Select Your Data:
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Deselect all (if you only want your emails).
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Scroll down until you find "Mail."
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Check the box next to Mail.
3. Customize Your Export:
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Delivery Method:Choose how you want to receive your archive:
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Add to Drive Store the archive in your Drive account.
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Frequency: Choose "Export once" for this task.
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File type & size: You can leave this on the default setting.
4. Create Your Archive:
- Click the "Create export" button.
- Google will start preparing your archive. This may take some time, depending on the size of your mailbox. You'll receive an email when it's ready.
- If you want to check on the status of the archive, you can login to Google Takeout, deselect all and select Access Log Activity
- Click Next Step and you will see the status of the Gmail archive
Important Notes:
- The exported archive will typically be in the MBOX format, which can be opened by various email clients or imported into other email services.
- Keep your archive safe and secure, as it contains your email data.