---
type: source
title: "Importing Certificates in Thunderbird"
tags: [thunderbird, smime, pki, certificates]
related: [thunderbird-certificate-import, smime, p12-file]
created: 2026-06-30
updated: 2026-06-30
sources: ["output/rz_uni_greifswald_de_dienste_allgemein_dfn_pki_zertifikate_nutzerzertifikat_thun.md"]
---
# Importing Certificates in Thunderbird

This source provides a technical guide for importing user certificates and private keys into the Mozilla Thunderbird email client to enable secure communication via S/MIME.

## Key Instructions
- **Import Process**: Users should navigate to **Account Settings** $\rightarrow$ **End-to-End Encryption** $\rightarrow$ **Manage S/MIME Certificates** and import the `.p12` file.
- **Configuration**: After import, the user must select the imported certificate for both the **Digital Signature** and **Encryption** personal certificates.
- **Best Practices**:
    - Enable **"Digitally sign unencrypted messages"** to verify sender identity.
    - Avoid enabling **"Encryption for new messages"** by default, as this requires all recipients to possess a compatible certificate, which is uncommon.

## Support
Technical issues are handled by the [[universitatsrechenzentrum-urz]] via their [[groupware]]-hosted ticket system or hotline.