Can I make Outlook Express always launch?

Q My PC has Windows XP installed, and it has two email programs: Microsoft Outlook, which came with Office 2007, and Microsoft Outlook Express.

I prefer using Outlook Express, as I have used it for so long I have become used to its interface, and all my emails from the last few years are stored in it.

However, when I click on an email address in my web browser, an Outlook window opens to write a new mail. How can I set up the computer so Outlook Express is the default email client?

Les Sutcliffe

A There is an option in XP to set the default programs used for tasks such as browsing the web, reading and composing email, and playing music and video.

Click on the Start menu, then on All Programs. At the top of the list is a link to Set Program Access and defaults.

This shows three presets to choose from which will change all the default applications used in Windows: Microsoft Windows, Non-Microsoft, and Custom. Click on Custom, then click the arrow on the right to expand the window.

Under the heading ‘Choose a default email program’, select Outlook Express, and make sure the box next to ‘Enable Access to this program’ is ticked.

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