DavMail

Self-Hosted

Open-source Exchange/Outlook Web Access to standard email protocol converter

Overview

DavMail enables access to Exchange or Outlook 365 accounts using any email client (e.g., Thunderbird, Evolution) by converting EWS/O365 to IMAP, SMTP, CalDAV, CardDAV, and LDAP. It supports desktop (Windows/macOS/Linux) and server deployment (Docker, headless mode). Key features include OAuth2 authentication for Outlook 365, offline mode, calendar/address book sync, and compatibility with legacy email clients. Ideal for self-hosters avoiding proprietary Outlook tools.

Self-Hosting Resources

Find Official Image on Docker Hub View Source & Docs

Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml. ⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.

docker-compose.template.yml TEMPLATE


version: '3'
services:
  davmail:
    image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
    container_name: davmail
    ports:
      - "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
    volumes:
      - ./data:/app/data
    restart: unless-stopped

Key Features

Converts Exchange/O365 to IMAP, SMTP, CalDAV, CardDAV, LDAP
Supports OAuth2 authentication for Outlook 365
Desktop and server deployment (Docker available)
Calendar and address book sync with offline mode

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is DavMail hard to install?

DavMail is easy to install on desktops with standard installers. For servers, Docker images simplify deployment. However, configuring OAuth2 for Outlook 365 requires Azure AD app registration, which may be technical for beginners.

? Is it a good alternative to Microsoft Outlook?

Yes—DavMail lets you use your preferred email client (e.g., Thunderbird) to access Exchange/O365 accounts, avoiding proprietary Outlook. It supports calendar/address book sync, making it a strong alternative for privacy-focused users.

? Is DavMail completely free?

Yes—DavMail is open-source under the GPL license. It has no paid tiers, and all features are free for personal or commercial use.

Top Alternatives

Microsoft Outlook (Desktop) Search Google

Outlook 365 Web App Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Free/Open Source

Category Communication - Email - Mail Delivery Agents

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Privacy-focused (no third-party data sharing)
⊕ Works with any standard email client
⊕ Open-source (customizable under GPL license)
⊕ Supports legacy and modern email protocols

Cons

⊖ Requires technical configuration (especially OAuth2 setup)
⊖ Needs periodic updates for Exchange/O365 API changes
⊖ Limited graphical UI (mostly config files/GUI for basic settings)
⊖ Steeper learning curve for non-technical users