Back up a Gmail mailbox
Download a complete archive of your Gmail mailbox, no account needed, with the right IMAP settings already set up.
IMAP server and port already filled in for Gmail — all that's left is to enter your credentials.
IMAP settings for Gmail
Gmail
- IMAP server
- imap.gmail.com
- Port
- 993
- Encryption
- SSL/TLS
- App password
- Required
Gmail requires an app password: your regular password is rejected over IMAP once 2-step verification is on. Without 2-step verification, Google blocks "less secure app" IMAP connections anyway, so an app password remains the most reliable option.
App password for Gmail: Turn on 2-Step Verification, then generate an app password from your Google account's security settings.
How it works
- Enter the credentials for your Gmail mailbox — the server (imap.gmail.com, port 993) is already filled in.
- Start the backup — MailSync connects read-only and goes through all your Gmail folders.
- A .zip archive is generated — one .eml file per message, same folder structure as your mailbox.
- Download your archive — available for 48 hours after the backup finishes.
What this tool doesn't do
- The operation only works over IMAP: a mailbox reachable only via POP3, or through a closed proprietary connector, can't be used.
- The archive doesn't contain your contacts, your calendar, or the filtering rules configured on the Gmail server.
- Beyond 5GB, finishing the operation requires a one-off payment or the Premium plan.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an app password for Gmail? +
Yes. Turn on 2-Step Verification, then generate an app password from your Google account's security settings. Gmail requires an app password: your regular password is rejected over IMAP once 2-step verification is on. Without 2-step verification, Google blocks "less secure app" IMAP connections anyway, so an app password remains the most reliable option.
Does the backup change my Gmail mailbox? +
No. The connection to Gmail is read-only: no message is deleted, moved, or even marked as read. Your mailbox stays exactly as you left it.
What format is my Gmail mailbox backed up in? +
You get a .zip archive containing one .eml file per message, organized in the same folder structure as your Gmail mailbox. The .eml format is an open standard, readable by Thunderbird, Outlook, Apple Mail and most email clients.
What Gmail mailbox size is supported? +
The backup is free up to 5GB. Beyond that, the first 5GB are backed up for free, then you finish the operation for 4,99€ excl. VAT (5,99€ incl. VAT) or by switching to Premium, which removes this limit.
Are my Gmail credentials stored? +
No. Your IMAP credentials are encrypted with libsodium for the duration of the operation, then erased as soon as it finishes. If you're signed in to your MailSync account and choose to save the mailbox, only that one is kept (encrypted); you can delete it at any time.