This tutorial explains how to setup Mozilla Thunderbird for Gmail IMAP account. You'll use manual config here based on Official Gmail Guide (pictured below). Here, I use Thunderbird version 45.5.1 on Linux Mint 18.1. I hope this helps any novice Thunderbird user on Ubuntu, Mint, Deepin, and another GNU/Linux distros.
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Why IMAP?
Choosing IMAP mode (over POP mode) is best when you have multiple computers to access one mail account. Think about it like Telegram, where you see deleted messages on a device are also deleted on another devices.
Enable IMAP on Web
You should enable IMAP mode from your Gmail account before anything else. Start your web browser, login to your Gmail account, go to Settings, and enable IMAP from POP/IMAP Settings. Don't forget to save your settings.
1. Add Mail Account
Start Thunderbird > go to menu File > New > Existing Mail Account.
2. Enter Email Address
Type your email address on the blank field. Type your name as well.
3. Show Manual Config
Click "Manual config" button so you can enter all addresses manually.
4. Enter IMAP & SMTP Addresses
On web browser, go to this Google Support Page to get the correct settings for IMAP. See picture below.
On Thunderbird, And enter the addresses, port numbers, and auth. info on manual config dialog:
5. Login & Receive Mails
After you press Done button Thunderbird will contact Gmail IMAP server and you will receive all your mails here. Enjoy Gmail with Thunderbird!
