Mastering the Art of Attachment: A Definitive Guide to Attaching Emails in Gmail

So, you need to attach an email to an email in Gmail? It’s simpler than you might think. Essentially, you’ll download the target email as an .eml file (a standard email format) and then attach that file to your new email, just like you would any other document. Let’s break it down step-by-step:

1. Open the email you want to attach.
2. Download the email as a .eml file:
   • If you are using Gmail on a web browser: Click the three vertical dots (More) icon located in the upper right corner of the email. Select “Download message.” This will download the email as a .eml file.
   • If you are using Gmail on the Gmail App: The steps are similar. Find the three dots menu and tap “Download message”. It will download the email as a .eml file.
3. Compose a new email: Click the “Compose” button to start a new email.
4. Attach the downloaded .eml file: In the new email, click the “Attach files” paperclip icon located at the bottom of the compose window. Select the .eml file you downloaded.
5. Finish and Send: Add your recipient’s email address, a subject line, and any additional text. Click the “Send” button.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully attached an email to an email in Gmail. But the world of email attachments is richer than that single process. Let’s delve deeper with some frequently asked questions that will transform you into a Gmail attachment pro.

Demystifying Gmail Attachments: Your Comprehensive FAQ Guide

Gmail attachments can be tricky if you’re not familiar with the nuances of size limits, file types, and troubleshooting. Here are 12 frequently asked questions to equip you with the knowledge you need to confidently navigate the world of email attachments.

What is the maximum attachment size limit in Gmail?

Gmail allows you to send attachments up to 25 MB in size. If your files exceed this limit, Gmail will automatically prompt you to upload them to Google Drive and insert a shareable link in your email. This allows recipients to access the files without being restricted by the traditional attachment limit. Remember this limit applies to the total size of all attachments in a single email, not per-file.

What file types are supported for attachments in Gmail?

Gmail supports a wide range of file types, including common documents (.doc, .docx, .pdf, .txt), spreadsheets (.xls, .xlsx, .csv), presentations (.ppt, .pptx), images (.jpg, .jpeg, .png, .gif), audio files (.mp3, .wav), video files (.mp4, .mov), and archive files (.zip, .rar). However, some file types are blocked for security reasons (more on that below).

What file types are blocked by Gmail and why?

Gmail blocks certain file types that are considered potentially harmful or executable. These include files with extensions like .exe, .dmg, .bat, .vbs, .js, .msc, and other executable files. These file types are often used to distribute malware or viruses, and Gmail’s security measures prevent them from being sent as attachments to protect users from potential threats. This is a critical security feature.

How can I send a file that is larger than the 25 MB limit?

As mentioned earlier, the easiest way to send large files is to upload them to Google Drive and then insert a shareable link in your Gmail message. When you attach a file larger than 25 MB, Gmail will automatically prompt you to do this. You can also manually upload files to Google Drive and generate a shareable link yourself. Ensure that the recipient has the necessary permissions to view the file on Google Drive.

How do I download multiple attachments at once in Gmail?

Gmail offers a convenient way to download multiple attachments simultaneously. Open the email containing the attachments. Look for a “Download all attachments” button, which often appears as a zip file icon or a dedicated button near the attachment list. Clicking this button will compress all attachments into a single zip file that you can download. You can also select individual attachments by hovering over them and clicking the download icon.

How do I rename an attachment before sending it in Gmail?

Unfortunately, Gmail doesn’t allow you to directly rename an attachment within the email interface before sending it. You’ll need to rename the file on your computer before attaching it to the email. Make sure to save the renamed file before attaching it, otherwise, Gmail will upload the original named file.

How do I prevent recipients from downloading my Gmail attachments?

While you can’t completely prevent a determined recipient from saving an attachment (they could always take a screenshot or photograph the screen), you can limit their ability to directly download the file. The best method is to share the file via Google Drive with restricted permissions. When sharing, choose “View only” permission to prevent the recipient from downloading, printing, or copying the content. Keep in mind that this only limits direct downloading and copying, not all methods of accessing the content.

How can I scan an attachment for viruses before downloading it in Gmail?

Gmail automatically scans all attachments for viruses before delivering them to your inbox. This is a standard security measure to protect users from malware. If Gmail detects a virus, it will block the attachment and notify you. While Gmail’s scanning is effective, it’s always a good practice to have a reputable antivirus program installed on your computer for an extra layer of security.

Can I attach an email to another email using the Gmail mobile app?

Yes, the process is very similar to doing it on a desktop. You’ll download the email as a .eml file (following the instructions at the beginning of this article), compose a new email in the Gmail app, and then attach the .eml file. The three dots menu provides the “Download message” option within the individual email.

How do I open a .eml file that I received as an attachment in Gmail?

A .eml file is a standard email format. You can open it with various email clients, including Gmail itself. Simply download the .eml file to your computer. Double-clicking it should open it in your default email client. If it doesn’t, you can right-click the file, select “Open with,” and choose an email client like Gmail, Outlook, or Thunderbird. You can also drag and drop the .eml file into your Gmail window while you are logged in to your Google account.

Why can’t I see the attachments in a Gmail email?

Several factors could be preventing you from seeing attachments. First, ensure you have a stable internet connection. Sometimes, attachments may not load properly on a slow or unreliable connection. Second, check your Gmail settings to make sure that attachments are set to display. Third, try clearing your browser’s cache and cookies, as cached data can sometimes interfere with the display of attachments. Finally, check if your antivirus software is blocking the attachments. If the problem persists, try opening the email in a different browser or device.

How do I automatically save Gmail attachments to Google Drive?

While Gmail doesn’t offer a built-in feature to automatically save all attachments to Google Drive, you can use third-party apps and browser extensions to achieve this. Several tools are available in the Google Workspace Marketplace that automatically save attachments to a designated Google Drive folder. These tools often offer customizable options, such as filtering attachments based on sender, file type, or keywords. Be sure to research and choose a reputable tool with good reviews and strong security practices.

By mastering these techniques and understanding the nuances of Gmail attachments, you’ll be able to send and receive files with confidence and efficiency, ensuring seamless communication and collaboration. Good luck and Happy Emailing!