matijs.net — Software

MSGConvert FAQ

Here are answers to some of the questions I've been asked over the years. Some of the answers may not be up-to-date anymore, but I try to revisit them once in a while.

Do you know how to create .MSG files?

I have some idea of how it could be done, but currently, MSGConvert will not do it for you, and adding that functionality will require a substantial rewrite. In the meantime, you can try one of the following:

Can you give me information about the .MSG format?

Microsoft provides documentation on some of its file formats, including the .MSG File Format and the .PST File Format.

Here are some more pointers:

How can I mass-convert my Outlook mail?

MSGConvert is not well suited for that, since you would first have to save each single message to a file from inside Outlook.

You can have Outlook store your messages on an IMAP server, and then use another mail client to read them again, or you can install Thunderbird and ask it to import your Outlook messages. Other email clients may also be able to import your email from Outlook.

You could also save your Outlook folders as .PST files, and try to convert that (see the next question). I don't recommend this, however.

Do you know how to convert <whatever> into <something else>?

The short answer is: No, I don't.

The long answer is: MSGConvert only handles .MSG files, and it turns them into mbox or MIME files. It doesn't do any other conversions.

However, I know of some other conversions to mbox format:

I have .MSG files that contain <whatever>. Will your program convert it?

If it's not an Outlook file, no, and it never will. If it is, then perhaps. Basically, MSGConvert will give you the body text as plain text, the HTML version if available, and any regular attachments. Someone asked me about Audio Notes. I don't know what those are, but perhaps someone can send me a .MSG file containing one.

Do you know how to do <whatever> with Outlook?

If it's something non-trivial, I don't know it, so you're better off looking at the help file. I don't really use Outlook much anymore myself.

I'm using a Mac. This is too complicated for me. Is there something less technical?

Yes, I understand. Using the command line and installing CPAN modules isn't for everyone. Fortunately, there are some alternatives. I haven't actually tried any of these, though.

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