Electronic Mail (EML) files are email message files commonly used by various email clients such as Microsoft Outlook, Windows Live Mail, and Mozilla Thunderbird. These files contain the email message content, attachments, sender and recipient information, and other email-related metadata. If you have received an EML file and are wondering how to open it, this guide will provide you with the necessary steps to access and view the contents of the EML file.
Method 1: Using an Email Client
If you are using an email client that supports EML file format, opening an EML file is as easy as double-clicking on the file. Here are the steps to open an EML file using popular email clients:
- Microsoft Outlook:
- Open Outlook on your computer.
- Drag and drop the EML file into your inbox or any other folder in Outlook.
- The EML file will be imported into Outlook, and you can view the email message along with any attachments.
- Windows Live Mail:
- Open Windows Live Mail.
- Click on File > Open > File.
- Locate the EML file on your computer and click Open.
- The EML file will be opened in Windows Live Mail, and you can read the email content.
- Mozilla Thunderbird:
- Open Thunderbird on your computer.
- Drag and drop the EML file into Thunderbird’s inbox or any other folder.
- The EML file will be displayed in Thunderbird, and you can view the email message.
Method 2: Using a Webmail Service
If you do not have access to an email client that supports EML files, you can use a webmail service to open and view the contents of the EML file. Here’s how you can do it:
- Gmail:
- Open your Gmail account on a web browser.
- Click on the Compose button to create a new email.
- Drag and drop the EML file into the email compose window.
- The EML file will be attached to the email, and you can view the email message content.
- Outlook.com:
- Sign in to your Outlook.com account.
- Click on New Message to create a new email.
- Attach the EML file to the email by clicking on the Attach button.
- You can now view the email message in Outlook.com.
Method 3: Using an EML File Viewer
If you prefer a standalone application to view EML files, you can use a dedicated EML file viewer software. These tools are specifically designed to open and read EML files without the need for an email client. Here are some popular EML file viewer options:
- Mailvare EML Viewer: A free tool to open and view EML files with attachments.
- Bitrecover EML Viewer: Allows you to view EML files in a user-friendly interface.
- Kernel EML Viewer: Supports viewing EML files from various email clients.
Method 4: Converting EML Files to Another Format
If you need to convert an EML file to a different format, such as PDF or PST, you can use email conversion tools to accomplish this task. Here’s how you can convert EML files to another format:
- Online Converters: Websites like Zamzar and Convertio allow you to upload an EML file and convert it to PDF, PST, or other formats.
- Third-Party Software: Tools like SysTools EML Converter and Aid4Mail can convert EML files to various formats like PDF, MSG, and MBOX.
Method 5: Viewing EML Files on Mobile Devices
If you want to view EML files on your mobile device, you can use email client apps that support EML file format. Here are some mobile apps that can help you view EML files on your smartphone or tablet:
- Microsoft Outlook App: Available for iOS and Android, Outlook app allows you to view EML files on the go.
- Thunderbird for Android: A mobile version of Thunderbird that supports viewing EML files on Android devices.
Conclusion
Opening EML files can be done using various methods, including email clients, webmail services, standalone EML viewers, and conversion tools. Depending on your preferences and requirements, you can choose the most suitable method to access and view the contents of EML files. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily open EML files and read the email messages contained within them.
