Backing up Mail

[luminosity]

Could someone explain how to back up Apple Mail properly? I managed to it right the first time, and last time I completely messed it up (and lost some important product keys as a result). I could use a guide this time around.

 

[robbieduncan]

I've migrated from machine-to-machine 3 or 4 times and multiple OS upgrades/complete reinstalls without issue by simply backing up ~/Library/Mail/

 

[luminosity]

I tried that last time, but I don't think I was able to find the right folder. I just saved gibberish. Or I think I got the right folder, but didn't do something right later on.

 

[SrWebDeveloper]

If you copy the native OS files, which are proprieatary for the mail server and not flat files, you must make sure the ownership and permissions are matched when restoring. Also, don't view/edit or run the copied files through software that might affect its format, filter out characters, etc.

Here is detailed information on this subject:

http://sitening.com/blog/2006/05/23/how-to-backup-your-mac-intelligently/

-jim