.EML

Electronic Mail Format

Learn about .eml files - Electronic Mail Format. Find software to open, compatibility information, and alternatives.

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.EML
Electronic Mail Format

What is a .eml file?

File Extension Details

An EML file is a standard file format used to store individual email messages. It was originally developed by Microsoft for Outlook Express but has since evolved into a universal standard (RFC 822 and RFC 5322) supported by the vast majority of email clients and servers. The file structure consists of plain text that includes the original email headers—such as the sender, recipient, date, and subject line—followed by the message body. EML files are capable of storing complex content including HTML formatting and file attachments, which are typically encoded using Base64 to ensure they can be transmitted as text. Because the format is essentially a text-based structure, EML files can be opened and read by basic text editors like Notepad or TextEdit, though they are best viewed in dedicated email software to render formatting and access attachments correctly. They are widely used for archiving individual messages, legal discovery, and migrating emails between different software platforms due to their high level of compatibility and standardized nature.

Software Compatibility

Programs that can open and work with .eml files

Windows

Compatible Applications

Microsoft Outlook Compatible
Mozilla Thunderbird Compatible
Windows Mail Compatible
Notepad Compatible

macOS

Compatible Applications

Apple Mail Compatible
Microsoft Outlook for Mac Compatible
Mozilla Thunderbird Compatible
TextEdit Compatible

Linux

Compatible Applications

Mozilla Thunderbird Compatible
Evolution Compatible
KMail Compatible
Vim Compatible

Mobile

Mobile Applications

Gmail App Compatible
Outlook Mobile Compatible
Apple Mail (iOS) Compatible
File Viewer for Android Compatible

Frequently Asked Questions

About .eml files

To open a .eml file, you need compatible software. Here are some options:

  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Mozilla Thunderbird
  • Apple Mail
  • Gmail App

To convert a .eml file to another format, you can:

  1. Use compatible software Many programs that open .eml files also allow you to save or export them to different formats.
  2. Try online conversion services: Websites like Zamzar, CloudConvert, or Online-Convert allow you to convert files between different formats without installing software.
  3. Specialized conversion tools: Search for '.eml converter' to find tools specifically designed for this file type.

  1. Verify the file extension is correct:
  2. Update your software:
  3. Try alternative software:
  4. Check for file corruption:

Like any file type, .eml files can be safe or potentially risky depending on their source:

  • Always scan files with antivirus software before opening
  • Keep your operating system and applications updated.
  • Be especially cautious with executable file types

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