If you've had it with Outlook, are tired of waiting for browser based e-mail applications, or just want to save money, Mozilla Thunderbird may just be for you. Recently Outlook has lost its flavor around the office, after a windows xp scheduled update, we found that the next morning no-one could sign into their e-mail. We have used Outlook 2003, since release, and have always been pleased with its ease of use, plus, with the use of Outlook 2000 before then, there was a certain "comfort factor" with using Microsoft's software for reading mail. Well with this looming disaster over my head, my first thought was to try and repair my office installation. Lets just say that went nowhere...
Then it hit me, Mozilla! A few years ago, I was one of the first to hop on the Mozilla Firefox bandwagon (Mozilla's attempt to outdue Microsoft Internet Explorer) and have used the little e on my desktop less and less since. So it seemed primetime to give thunderbird a test.
The download was simple enough (download) took only a moment on my cable connection, and I was installing the program in a matter of seconds. First, I was pleased to find that their were no other programs attached (a recent download of Macromedia flash 8 added a yahoo toolbar to my already present goole toolbar). Once installed, I was surprised that Mozilla Thunderbird could import my settings from Outlook. This was a very strong point with me, I was under the impression that I would have to spend the rest of the day setting up everyone's e-mail account. The interface once open left some to be desired. In my opinion it appears they have tried to resemble Outlook, but have moved everything to different locations, but after getting used to the interface, and doing some poking around I was feeling much more comfortable. All of the e-mail addresses were set-up properly, I simply had to type in the pasword and go.
The Bottom Line:
Mozilla Thunderbird Rating : 8 out of 10
Reason's for rating : Easy Download, Free, Easy Set-up
Mozilla Thunderbird is a capable, fast, e-mail solution, and free! If you already have a e-mail client set-up, I would not suggest downloading Thunderbird. But if you are fed up with your current e-mail situation, or are looking to a free alternative. Mozilla Thunderbird may be right for you.