Why look for an alternative to MailStore?
MailStore Server is one of the most popular email archiving solutions. However, many companies are looking for alternatives for specific reasons: complex installation on local servers, high licence costs, the need for constant IT maintenance, and the lack of a native cloud solution.
MailArk was created to solve these problems, offering 100% cloud-based email archiving that is simple, secure and designed for SMEs.
Detailed comparison
| Feature | MailArk | MailStore Server |
|---|---|---|
| Type of solution | Cloud (SaaS) | On-premise (local installation) |
| Installation | Zero — register and get started | Requires dedicated Windows server |
| Maintenance | None — managed by us | Updates and backups at your expense |
| Mobile access | Yes, from any device | Limited, requires VPN or Outlook Add-in |
| Monthly cost | From £9/month | From ~300 EUR/year + server costs |
| Swiss compliance | Art. 958f CO, nLPD | Depends on configuration |
| Full-text search | Yes | Yes |
| Storage | Up to unlimited | Depends on disk space |
| Support | Italian, German, French, English | English and German |
| Free trial | Permanent free plan | 30-day trial |
The advantages of MailArk over MailStore
1. No installation, no server
With MailStore, you have to install the software on a Windows server, configure the database, set up backups and manage updates. With MailArk, you register, connect your email accounts and archiving starts automatically. You'll be up and running in less than 5 minutes.
2. Predictable and affordable costs
MailStore requires an annual licence (starting at around £250 for 5 users) plus the costs of the server, energy, backups and IT maintenance. With MailArk, you pay only £6 per month for the Professional plan and everything is included: hosting, backups, updates, support.
3. Access anywhere
MailArk is accessible from any browser, on any device. No VPN, no Outlook required. Whether you're in the office, at home or on the go, your email archive is always available.
4. Swiss compliance guaranteed
MailArk is designed specifically for the Swiss market and guarantees compliance with Art. 958f of the Swiss Code of Obligations and the new Data Protection Act (nLPD). With MailStore, compliance depends entirely on how you configure and manage the server.
5. No IT expertise required
MailStore requires Windows Server administration, database management and networking skills. MailArk is designed for entrepreneurs, accountants and professionals who want to be compliant without having to become IT experts.
Who is MailArk designed for?
MailArk is the ideal choice for:
- Swiss SMEs that need to comply with email archiving requirements without investing in IT infrastructure
- Law firms and fiduciaries that handle sensitive communications and must ensure long-term storage
- Accountants who need a compliant archive for their clients' tax documentation
- Companies without an IT department that are looking for a simple, stand-alone solution
Migrate from MailStore to MailArk in just a few steps
Switching from MailStore to MailArk is easy. You don't need to export your old archive: MailArk connects directly to your email accounts (IMAP) and starts archiving right away. Emails already in your inbox are synchronised automatically.
The free plan allows you to try the service with no obligation, with 1 email account and 90 days of storage. When you're ready, you can upgrade to the Professional or Business plan with a single click.