Outlook Backup: The Modern Alternative to PST Files
Back up your Outlook.com emails locally before they are lost. Mailriva downloads your entire mailbox via IMAP and saves it as individual EML files or in MBOX format — each email directly readable, with your complete folder structure preserved.
Why an Outlook.com Backup Makes Sense
A proper Outlook backup matters because even Microsoft's reliable email service can put your access at risk through a locked account or compromised password. Users with old Hotmail or Live.com addresses are especially affected — these accounts often go back more than a decade. You can save locally with Mailriva, whether your address ends in @outlook.com, @hotmail.com, or @live.com.
Supports All Microsoft Addresses
Outlook.com, Hotmail, and Live.com — all supported equally.
Folder Structure Preserved
All folders and subfolders are saved in their original structure.
Mailbox Stays Unchanged
Mailriva only creates copies. Your Outlook mailbox is not modified.
No PST Files Needed
Works directly via IMAP. No Outlook Desktop, no PST files, no Microsoft 365 subscription.
How to Back Up Your Outlook.com Emails Locally
Verify IMAP access
IMAP is enabled by default on Outlook.com. Make sure you can sign in with your Microsoft email address and password.
Download Mailriva
Download Mailriva for free and install the app on your Windows PC or Mac.
Connect Outlook.com as source
Select Outlook.com as the source provider in Mailriva and sign in with your Microsoft credentials.
Choose a local archive as destination
Select a local folder on your computer as the storage target. Your emails will be saved there in a structured format.
Start the backup
Select the folders you want to back up and start the process. Your Outlook.com mailbox remains completely unchanged.
Frequently Asked Questions
Create a clean Outlook backup
Secure your Microsoft emails locally, secure and organized on your hard drive.