Using IMAPSync Migrations in DirectAdmin
Summary
This guide explains how to use IMAPSync in DirectAdmin to migrate e‑mails from one server or mailbox to another. IMAPSync securely copies messages between IMAP accounts without deleting or modifying the source mailbox.
Overview
IMAPSync is used when moving from one hosting provider to another, consolidating mailboxes, or transferring accounts between servers. It preserves folder structure, timestamps, and message flags.
Requirements
- DirectAdmin user-level access
- IMAP login credentials for both source and destination mailboxes
- Both servers must support IMAP
- DNS does NOT need to be changed before migration
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Access IMAPSync
- Log in to DirectAdmin
- Go to E‑mail Manager → IMAPSync
- Select the domain you want to migrate mail into
2. Enter Source Mailbox Details
Source mailbox = the old server or old e‑mail account
- Enter the source IMAP server hostname (example: mail.oldhost.com)
- Enter the source e‑mail address
- Enter the source mailbox password
3. Enter Destination Mailbox Details
Destination mailbox = the new server (your DirectAdmin account)
- Enter the destination IMAP server hostname (example: mail.yourdomain.com)
- Enter the destination e‑mail address
- Enter the destination mailbox password
4. Choose Migration Options
Common options include:
- Sync all folders
- Sync only INBOX
- Skip large messages
- Delete messages on destination before syncing (use with caution)
5. Start the Migration
- Click “Start IMAPSync”
- The process begins immediately
- You can close the page; the migration continues in the background
6. Check Migration Logs
- After completion, a log file appears
- Review the log for:
• Success messages
• Skipped messages
• Errors or authentication issues
7. Run IMAPSync Again (Optional)
IMAPSync is safe to run multiple times.
- Useful if DNS has not yet been switched
- Only new or changed messages are copied
Troubleshooting
Authentication Failed
- Verify the correct password for both accounts
- Ensure IMAP is enabled on the source server
- Check for two‑factor authentication (may require an app password)
Folders Not Syncing
- Ensure the source server uses standard IMAP folder names
- Enable “Sync all folders” option
- Check for special characters in folder names
Migration Very Slow
- Large mailboxes (5–20 GB) take time
- High latency between servers slows the process
- Avoid syncing during peak traffic hours
Some Messages Missing
- Check the log for skipped messages
- Some servers block very large attachments
- Re-run IMAPSync with “sync large messages” enabled
Migration Completed but New Mail Missing
- Run IMAPSync again to capture new messages
- Update DNS MX records only after confirming all mail is copied
Related Articles
- E‑mail Accounts
- Forwarders
- MX Records
- E‑mail Tracking
- SpamAssassin Setup