What is An EML File Extension?
Understand the basics of EML
Overview of an EML File
An EML file format represents a single email message saved in a standard email structure. It stores email headers, message content, hyperlinks, and attachments in single EML file.
EML file extension is very much equipped in supporting the ASCII text format for the email headers. In addition to this, the rest of the email body can also store email attachments and hyperlinks. EML files, in particular, are supported by Microsoft Outlook Express. But in addition to that, there is a huge list of email clients that support EML files.
This page explains what are EML files, their features, supported applications, and how users can open and view EML files.
Application Category
Email message file category
Organization
Microsoft Corporation
File Format
Text and Binary
Category Details
Each EML file stores a single email in a readable text-based format. It contains email header, message content, and attachment references. Although EML files are primarily text files. It may also contain binary data when attachments such as images or documents are added.
Developer History
EML file format was originally introduced by Microsoft Corporation as part of its email ecosystem, including Outlook Express and Windows Live Mail. Over time, the format became widely adopted by other email clients because it follows standard internet email protocols. This makes EML file a reliable email file format.
Technical Specifications
MIME Type
message/rfc822
Message/rfc822 is the MIME type associated with EML files. This indicates that the EML file contains a complete email message structured according to internet email standards. Email clients and mail servers use MIME type to correctly recognize, open, and process EML files.
File Signature Details
46 72 6F 6D 3A 20
This hexadecimal sequence represents the word “From:”. It commonly appears at the beginning of an email header for technical verification and forensic analysis.
Location of EML File Format
Windows Live Mail Paths
- Window XP:
C:\Documents and settings\UserName\Local Settings\Application Data\Microsoft\Windows Live Mail - Vista & Windows 7:
C:\Users\UserName\AppsData\Local\Microsoft\Windows Live Mail - Vista & Windows 8:
C:\Users\UserName\AppData\Local\Packges\Microsoft.windowscommunicationsapps\LocalState\Indexed\LiveComm\Mail
How to Save EML Locally
Microsoft Classic Outlook
Click File → Save As. Choose Text Only (.txt) or drag-and-drop the email to a folder.
Note: Outlook primarily uses PST and OST formats.
Mozilla Thunderbird
Drag and drop an email to a folder, or Right-click the email → Save As → File.
Apple Mail (macOS)
Launch Apple Mail, select the Email, and drag the email to a folder.
Gmail (Web Interface)
Click the three-dot menu → Select Download message. Downloaded in default folder as .eml.
Applications Supported
EML files are widely supported by both desktop and web-based email clients. They can be opened, viewed, and imported using below listed email applications:
How to Open and View EML File?
Software and Email clients that open EML file: Microsoft Outlook, Outlook Express, Thunderbird, Novell GroupWise, SeaMonkey, The BAT, Dream Mail, Fox Mail, Windows Live Mail, Mail App.
As an alternative, corrupt EML files can be opened using tools mentioned below.