QUESTION:

How can I disable the "Preview Pane" in Microsoft Outlook Express to prevent e-mail messages from automatically loading and potentially loading an attached virus?

POSSIBLE SOLUTION(S):

By default, Microsoft Outlook Express enables the "Preview Pane" in which any highlighted e-mail in your "Inbox" (or any other folder) will automatically load into a small window-like area underneath your e-mail list. However, when e-mail is automatically loaded in this manner, there is a potential for a rogue e-mail message containing an attached virus to instantly infect your PC. To prevent this from occuring, you can disable the "Preview Pane" and from then on you will just be presented with a list of e-mail which you can individually highlight and delete without ever having to open. To open and read regular e-mail that you deem safe, you then double-click on any e-mail in the list to open in it's own small window.

To disable the "Preview Pane" in Microsoft Outlook Express:

1. Start Microsoft Outlook Express

2. At the top, click the text tab for View and then Layout.

3. In the Window Layout Properties under the Preview Pane section, uncheck the option for Show preview pane.

4. Click OK to save these options.

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