How to Transfer Emails Using IMAP Import in DirectAdmin
DirectAdmin includes an IMAP Import tool that allows you to copy emails from another email provider into your DirectAdmin mailbox. This is useful when moving from cPanel, another hosting provider, Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, or any email service that supports IMAP.
What Does IMAP Import Do?
Copies Existing Emails
Imports existing messages from the old mailbox into the new DirectAdmin mailbox.
Preserves Folders
Inbox, Sent, Drafts, Trash, Spam, and custom folders are usually copied across.
Does Not Delete Old Mail
The import normally copies mail only and does not remove messages from the old provider.
Before You Start
Create the New Mailbox First
Create the destination email account in DirectAdmin before starting the import.
Keep Old Email Active
Do not cancel the old hosting or email service until the migration is complete.
Check IMAP Access
The old provider must allow IMAP connections for the import to work.
Information You Will Need
Old Email Address
info@olddomain.com
Old Email Password
********
Old IMAP Server
mail.olddomain.com
IMAP Port
993 SSL 143 non-SSL
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Login to DirectAdmin
Access your hosting account and open DirectAdmin.
Step 2: Open Email Manager
Navigate to the Email Manager section.
Step 3: Open IMAP Import
Click IMAP Import to start the email transfer process.
Step 4: Enter Source Mailbox Details
Add the old mailbox IMAP server, username, password, port, and SSL settings.
Step 5: Select Destination Mailbox
Choose the DirectAdmin mailbox where the imported emails should be copied.
Step 6: Start Import
Click import and wait for DirectAdmin to copy the emails.
Common Migration Examples
cPanel to DirectAdmin
Move email accounts from an old cPanel server into your new DirectAdmin hosting account.
Google Workspace to DirectAdmin
Import existing Google Workspace messages using IMAP server details.
Microsoft 365 to DirectAdmin
Copy email history from Microsoft 365 mailboxes into DirectAdmin.
Other Hosting Providers
Transfer mail from almost any provider that supports IMAP access.
Common Problems & Fixes
Authentication Failed
Check the old mailbox username and password are correct.
Cannot Connect to Server
Check the IMAP hostname, port, SSL setting, and firewall access.
Missing Emails
Run the import again after checking folder selection and mailbox size.
Import Is Slow
Large mailboxes can take a long time depending on mailbox size and provider speed.
Important Migration Tip
Complete the IMAP import before changing MX records where possible. Once the old emails have been copied and verified, update your DNS so new emails begin arriving at the DirectAdmin server.
Quick Tips
Use SSL
Use IMAP port 993 where possible for encrypted transfers.
Check Mailbox Size
Large mailboxes may take longer and may need to be imported in stages.
Test After Import
Login to webmail and confirm Inbox, Sent, and custom folders are present.
