Installation

To install Thunderbird 5 via PPA, open a terminal and type the following: Done. Go to “Applications -> Internet -> Thunderbird” to run the application.

Integrate Thunderbird to the Messaging menu

For the Thunderbird to appear in the Messaging menu, all you have to do is to install the “Ubuntu Unity Messaging Menu” extension. In Thunderbird, go to “Tools -> Add-ons“. Search for “Messaging Menu”. Install the first extension that appears in the screen.

Restart Thunderbird after the installation. The Thunderbird entry should appear in the messaging menu now.

Replacing Evolution

If you are using the calendar feature in Evolution and you want to migrate to Thunderbird, you might be disappointed to find that Thunderbird does not come with a Calendar feature by default. You can, however, install the several extensions to implement the calendar feature. Lightning is the most popular (and most comprehensive) Calendar extension for Thunderbird. It is almost a “must-install” for every Thunderbird user. Alternatively, if you are a Google Calendar user, you can also install the Google Calendar Tab extension that loads your Google Calendar in a new tab. If you are using IMAP to check your email accounts, there is no need to do any email migration from Evolution. However, for those using the POP protocol, follow the instructions here to migrate all your settings from Evolution. Lastly, enjoy your Thunderbird. Note: Thunderbird could be the default email client for Ubuntu Oneiric. It will be good if you can familiarize with it now.