Step-by-step process: Convert the MSG files to HTML format.
Emails that have been saved in MSG format on Microsoft Outlook are a common format. This format will include all of the data included in an email (you have the complete sender information, message content and any file attachment), but there is no easy way to view or share this information or access it unless you have Outlook installed, making it more challenging to view email in browsers, store Emails for a long time or share Emails with users that do not have Outlook.
This post describes both a manual and a professional technique of converting MSG files into HTML files without the need for Microsoft Outlook.
Why Convert an MSG File and Is an MSG File?
Emails on other computers cannot be opened without utilizing the proprietary MSG format, which is created by the Microsoft Outlook email software. Websites on the internet are created using the HTML (HyperText Markup Language) standard. Consequently, the following advantages will arise when converting MSG file formats (Outlook) to HTML file types:
Use any web browser (Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, Safari) to view the message.
- Embed or publish email content on webpages.
- Archive emails in a format that’s easily searchable.
- Share email content without requiring recipients to install Outlook.
Method 1: Manual Conversion of MSG to HTML (Without Outlook)
Using Outlook for the manual conversion process, however, the formatting or attachments often alter during the conversion process, limiting the options available for users.
Step 1: Access the content of the MSG file
Archive programs like 7-Zip can be used to access MSG files.
- Install a file archiving program such as 7-Zip.
- Select Open with → 7-Zip by doing a right-click on the MSG file.
- Examine the file's internal organization.
- Find the message body, which is often saved as either rich or plain text.
Step 2: Take Out the Text of the Message
- Copy the body of the email from the file that was extracted.
- Paste it into Notepad or another text editor.
Step 3: Create an HTML File
Wrap the extracted content inside basic HTML tags:
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<head>
<meta charset="UTF-8">
<title>Email Message</title>
</head>
<body>
<pre>
Paste the message content here.
</pre>
</body>
</html>
Save the file with an .html extension and open it in a browser.
Limitations of the Manual Method
- Attachments are not preserved.
- Original formatting may be lost.
- Not suitable for batch conversion
- Requires technical effort
Method 2: Automated Conversion Using a Professional Tool
The most effective way for users who have many MSG files, attachments, or formatted emails to manage them is by utilizing a dedicated converter tool.
The TrustVare MSG to HTML Converter is an example of a professional utility that will enable you to convert MSG files accurately without being dependent upon accessing Outlook (MS Office)"Additionally, it is capable of performing batch conversions, offering a preview feature, and preserving the original MSG file's associated metadata.
Why Choose HTML Converter?
- Quick and precise MSG file conversion to HTML/MHTML
- Email attributes such as To, From, CC, BCC, Date/Time, and attachments are preserved.
- Batch conversion of unlimited MSG files at once
- No Outlook installation required
- Preview before export, making sure you convert the right files.
Step-by-Step Process
- Install the software on a Windows system.
- Launch the application after installation.
- Add MSG files or folders using file or folder selection mode.
- Preview emails to confirm the correct files are selected.
- Choose HTML as the output format.
- Choose the converted files' destination folder.
- Launch the conversion and give it time to finish.
The generated HTML files preserve the original email structure and can be viewed immediately in any web browser.
Top Techniques for Converting MSG to HTML
- Use manual methods only for single files.
- Choose HTML for browser viewing, MHTML for bundled attachments.
- Always preview files before conversion.
- Maintain copies of the original MSG files.
Common Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Is it possible to convert MSG to HTML without using Microsoft Outlook?
Yes. Both manual extraction methods and professional converters allow MSG to HTML conversion without installing Outlook.
Q2. Is manual conversion safe?
Manual conversion is safe but limited. It works best for non-sensitive, single emails and does not preserve attachments or formatting.
Q3. Will email attachments be included in HTML?
Manual methods usually exclude attachments. Automated solutions can preserve attachments or embed them when exporting.
Q 4. Can I use any device to open HTML email files?
Yes, any contemporary web browser can open HTML files on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Q5. Is batch conversion possible without Outlook?
Yes, but only using tools that are automated. For vast amounts of files, manual approaches are impractical.
Last Thoughts
MSG can be converted to HTML without the need for Outlook. While manual options will suffice for basic requirements, they cannot easily manage the volume of files, attachments or complexity of formatting when there are multiple files; therefore, an automated converter will allow you to convert files quickly, accurately and easily in a user-friendly manner on professional or bulk conversions.
The selection of the method you choose will depend on the volume of files as well as your technical skills and your need to maintain data integrity.
