3 Best Methods to Convert NSF to EML- Complete Guide
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Written By Shital Jha
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Updated on April 21st, 2025
Summary: If you’re planning to switch from Lotus Notes to a more flexible email client, you might find yourself stuck with NSF files that are not supported by many platforms. To make things easier, converting NSF files to EML can be a wise step to take. Tools like the DRS NSF Converter Tool can simplify this process in just a few clicks. But if you want to explore all available options, this blog will walk you through the best three methods to convert NSF to EML smoothly and securely.
Top Reasons to Export Lotus Notes Emails to EML
NSF files are created by IBM (now HCL) Lotus Notes, which is known for its enterprise-level features. However, NSF files are not supported by many modern email clients. On the other hand, EML is a widely accepted file format that works with popular applications like Windows Live Mail, Mozilla Thunderbird, Outlook Express, Apple Mail, etc.
Here are a few common reasons users convert NSF to EML:
- EML files are easier to manage and share.
- You don’t need Lotus Notes to open EML files.
- EML files are more compatible with modern platforms.
- You can back up individual emails conveniently.
- They’re supported by a wider range of email clients.
- Lotus Notes is costly and complex for non-enterprise users.
How to Convert NSF to EML [3 Proven Methods]
Now that we’ve covered the reasons behind converting NSF to EML, it’s time to explore how you can actually do it. Below are three tried and tested methods, including both manual steps and an easy automated tool. As a result, you can carry out the conversion based on your needs and technical comfort level.
Manual Methods to Convert NSF File to EML Format
There are two manual ways to convert NSF emails into EML format. The first method uses the drag-and-drop feature, and the second one uses the “Save As” option. Let’s go through both methods to perform the NSF to EML conversion:
01: Using the Drag and Drop Method
- Open Lotus Notes (IBM Notes) on your system.
- Click on File and then go to Preferences.
- In the left pane, select Basic Notes Client Configuration.
- Under Additional Options, check the box Drag and drop saves as EML file >> click OK.
- Now, select the emails you want to convert (use CTRL + A to select all).
- Simply drag the selected emails and drop them into a folder on your desktop.
- After performing these steps, you will be able to export NSF to EML.
02: Using the Save As Option
- Here, launch IBM Notes on your computer.
- Open the email that you want to save as an EML file.
- After that, click on File, then select Save As.
- Pick the location where you want to save the email.
- From the given Save as type dropdown, select EML.
- Lastly, click on the Save button to complete the process.
If you have technical expertise, the above-mentioned manual process will help you convert NSF to EML.
Limitations of Using Manual Methods
These manual methods are fairly easy to follow, but they do have some limitations:
- The process can be time-consuming, especially if you have a large number of emails.
- You can’t convert multiple NSF files in one go.
- Basic technical knowledge is required to perform the steps correctly.
- Manual methods are not suitable for bulk email conversion or enterprise-level migration.
Because of these drawbacks, most users prefer a quicker and more reliable solution to convert NSF to EML. A professional tool can help automate the entire process and save time. Let’s explore that next.
All-in-one Solutions to Export Lotus Notes Emails to EML
When it comes to converting NSF files into EML format safely and without data loss, the DRS Softech NSF to EML Converter stands out as a smart, professional solution. It supports secure conversion of entire NSF mailboxes, including emails, attachments, and folders, into EML files. This utility is easy for both technical and non-technical users to perform the conversion without any data loss. It eliminates the need for any complex manual steps or multiple applications. Here are some of the top features associated with this software:
Top Features:
- Direct NSF to EML Conversion: Easily convert NSF emails into EML format without additional steps.
- Bulk File Support: Convert single or multiple NSF files at once, saving time and effort.
- Folder Structure Preservation: Maintains the original folder hierarchy and metadata.
- Email Preview Option: Lets you preview email content before conversion.
- Date Range Filter: Export only specific emails based on date selection.
- Naming Convention Options: Helps organize output EML files clearly.
- Wide Compatibility: Supports all major versions of Lotus Notes and Windows OS.
Simple Steps to Use this Utility & Convert NSF to EML
- Download & Install the DRS NSF Converter Tool on your system.
- After that, click on the Add Files button and select your NSF file(s).
- Preview your mailbox items in a tree-structured format.
- Choose EML as the output format from the list of saving options.
- Along with that, set the destination path to save the converted files.
- Apply filters if needed (like date range or exclude duplicate emails).
- Lastly, click on Convert to begin the conversion of the NSF file into EML.
In a few minutes, your NSF emails will be saved in EML format and ready to be opened in clients like Thunderbird, Windows Live Mail, or Outlook Express.
Know More: Convert NSF to PDF
Conclusion
This complete blog provided the three best methods to convert NSF to EML. Above manual methods like drag-and-drop or “Save As” can work for a few emails, but they fall short when it comes to batch conversion, time-saving, and maintaining data structure. The recommended utility takes care of all these concerns. It provides a one-click solution with guaranteed data integrity, making it ideal for both personal and business-level migrations.
