Why Switch to ProtonMail?
Unlike Gmail, ProtonMail doesn't scan your emails for advertising purposes or build a profile about you. Your data is encrypted in a way that even ProtonMail can't access your emails.
- EU-compliant: Strong data protection (Swiss privacy laws)
- End-to-end encryption: Maximum security for your messages
- No scanning of email content for advertisements
- Zero-access encryption: Even ProtonMail can't read your emails
What You Need
- An active Gmail account
- A computer with internet access (you can't access Proton's Easy Switch via smartphone)
- About 45 minutes to complete the migration
1Create a ProtonMail Account
- Visit the Proton website
- Click on "Create Free Account"
- Choose your subscription (Free or Paid)
- Enter your desired username and a strong password
- Complete the verification process
- Choose a display name
- Optional: Add a recovery email address or phone number
2Import your Gmail contacts and emails
With the Easy Switch feature, you can import your existing Gmail contacts, emails, and calendars to Proton Mail.
- Click on the contacts icon in the Proton Mail sidebar.
- Select "Import contacts".
- Choose "Import from Gmail".
- Indicate what you want to import: contacts, emails and/or calendars.
- Click on "Start import".
- Click on "Continue".
- Select your Gmail account and log in.
- Click twice on "Continue" to grant the required permissions.
- Click on "Start import" to begin the process.
- Importing may take some time; you'll receive a notification once it's completed.
3Automatic forwarding of future emails
With Proton Mail's Easy Switch feature, you can easily set up automatic forwarding of new emails sent to your Gmail address to your Proton Mail inbox.
- Click on the gear icon (⚙️) in the top right and select "All settings".
- Go to the "Import via Easy Switch" tab in the sidebar.
- Click on "Set up automatic forwarding from Gmail".
- A pop-up window will appear asking you to log in to your Gmail account. Enter your Gmail username and password.
- In Google's permission window, check all required boxes and click "Continue".
- After successful authorization, you'll receive confirmation that automatic forwarding has been set up.
Note: Your Proton Mail address is not shared with Google during this process, protecting your privacy.
4Install the ProtonMail App (optional)
- Download the ProtonMail App for your phone
- Install the app
- Log in with your ProtonMail account
- Use the app to view and manage your emails
5Update Your Accounts (optional)
- Make a list of important services linked to your Gmail account
- Banking services
- Social media accounts
- Subscription services
- Visit each service and update your email address to your new ProtonMail address
6Safe Transition Period (optional)
Keep both email accounts for at least a few months to:
- Catch services you forgot to update
- Ensure you receive all important communications
- Become familiar with the ProtonMail interface
Regularly check both accounts during this period to make sure you don't miss anything important.
Troubleshooting
Common Issues
- Missing emails: Check spam/junk folders in ProtonMail
- Attachment size limits: ProtonMail's free subscription has an attachment limit of 25MB
- Email formatting: Some complex email formatting may not transfer perfectly
Getting Help
If you encounter problems during migration:
- Visit ProtonMail's Support Center
- Consult the ProtonMail Knowledge Base
- Contact ProtonMail support through your account settings
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully migrated from Gmail to ProtonMail. Your email communication is now more private and secure. Be sure to regularly check your old Gmail account during the transition period to ensure you haven't missed anything important.
ProtonMail not only offers you better privacy but also contributes to a digital ecosystem that respects your data. By making this switch, you've taken an important step in protecting your digital life.
