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There are many reasons to switch over to Gmail from AOL. AOL's internet is rather slow and the Instant Messaging feature can be accessed through the free AIM. Also you if you are already using the internet, you don't have to open up a new program to see your email.

• Steps

1. Visit the Gmail page. Gmail is free for everyone and you do not need another email address to sign up.
2. Set up your account. Enter the information requested and click I agree.
3. Read the help information about Gmail on the next page. If you are unfamiliar with Gmail the email you receive from the support team is very helpful.
4. Personalize your account. You can add a picture that will be viewed by Gmail friends or personalize your iGoogle Homepage for starters.
5. Notify people who email you at your old AOL account that your are changing to Gmail. Pick a user name that is similar or identical to your AOL user name so your friends and family will easily make the transition.
6. Receive email from your old account for a week or so. Click Settings at the top of any Gmail page. Click Accounts along the top of the Settings box. Under Get mail from other accounts: click Add a mail account. Enter information and change your preferences, then add the email.
7. Remind people who continue to email your old address that you have changed it. You may have to call the person to get the message across.
8. Copy your contacts from AOL to Gmail:
   
   
   1. Export your address book in AOL's ldif format in AOL Communicator.
   2. Import your address book in text format in Thunderbird.
   3. Export your address book in CSV format in Thunderbird.
   4. Import you address book in CSV format in Gmail.
9. Enjoy Gmail!

• Tips

1. Alternatively, copy and paste your contacts directly from the AOL address book and email it to yourself at Gmail. Unfortunately you will not receive phone numbers or other information. You may have to add that information manually.
2. An alternative way is to go to http://beta.webmail.aol.com. Click on "Contacts" on the left hand side bar. Click "Export" (it's next to the 'find contacts' search bar). Export to a CSV, "comma-separated-value" file. Just import this in Gmail.

• Warnigs
  You may have problems as AOL's ldif is different from Thunderbird's one (e.g. the phone numbers won't be in Thunderbird and after in Gmail). This is avoidable as long as you are using AOL's Beta Mail Service.

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