Practical digital skills

Export and import browser bookmarks

Move saved links between browsers while keeping a separate copy and checking folders after import.

Step-by-step guideUpdated
Follow the method ↓
A person compares bookmark folders before and after a browser transfer

The answer in 30 seconds

Bookmark synchronisation and a bookmark export solve different problems. Sync may copy changes between signed-in devices; an exported HTML file provides a point-in-time transfer or backup.

Export bookmarks from the old browser, save the file somewhere you can find it, import into the new browser and inspect folders, duplicates and a few important links before deleting anything.

Examples to adapt

Changing browsers

Import the old collection, then keep the original browser until key links work.

A shared computer

Check which profile you export from so another person's links are not included.

Two imports

An identical file imported twice can create duplicate folders; inspect before cleaning.

Follow the method

  1. 1
    Choose the source profile

    Confirm that the bookmarks belong to the account or browser profile you intend to move.

  2. 2
    Export a copy

    Use the browser's bookmark export feature and note where the HTML file is saved.

  3. 3
    Import once

    Select the file in the destination browser and allow the import to complete.

  4. 4
    Verify

    Inspect folders and reopen several essential links before removing old copies.

A checklist to keep

Use these checks to record what you found. The grid supports a decision; it does not make one for you.

Export and import browser bookmarks: checklist
CheckWhat to examineAction
SourceWhich browser profile is correct?Confirm
ExportWhere is the HTML file?Save
ImportWas it applied once?Check
FoldersWere names and links preserved?Inspect
BackupIs an independent copy kept?Keep

Download the CSV checklist

Free, no sign-up. UTF-8 text with semicolon-separated columns.

What to check

A bookmark export contains addresses and titles that may be personal.

Passwords and browsing history are separate from bookmarks.

Sync can reproduce unwanted changes; keep an independent export.

Common questions

Does importing overwrite existing bookmarks?

Behaviour varies; check whether the browser adds a folder or merges items before repeating the action.

Can I share the HTML file?

Treat it as a record of your browsing interests and share only if appropriate.

Sources and documentation

Documentation consulted on . Examples are illustrative; interfaces and results may change.

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