Steps to Fix an Outlook Express Error

Outlook Express is a program that came with the Windows Microsoft Office packages before the creation of Windows Vista. The program is an email that is internet-based and works with Browser versions 4.0 and above of Internet Explorer. Though similar to Microsoft Outlook, Express has fewer features, but is much more user-friendly and is better for home use than Microsoft Outlook is. The toolbar and other features of Outlook Express do not require much technical knowledge. Should Outlook Express begin to malfunction, however, you can take the following steps to fix it.

Step 1
Reboot your PC. Often, a simple restart of the computer will fix any problems with lagging or freezing that occurs with programs such as Outlook Express. If this is happening to your computer, click on the 'Start' button and then click 'Shut Down.' From here, you can choose to either restart the computer or to shut it down and then restart it manually. Once the PC has turned back on, try opening Outlook Express to check its status.

Step 2
Erase your temporary internet files. Sometimes, these files become damaged and will cause your computer to malfunction as you try to read your email. You can get to your temporary internet files by visiting the "Delete Browser History" tab in your internet browser under "Tools." From there you will se an option to delete your temporary files.

Step 3
Erase Outlook messages that have odd senders or messages that are not pertinent to you or that you do not know. Attachments can also be a source of problems as they can have files that are damaged. Damaged files that you open using Outlook Express can cause harm to the program and to your computer.

Step 4
Check for viruses. Set up your antivirus software to scan all emails that you receive. It is always possible that a folder or message in your email has an infected or damaged file.

Step 5
Check your System Files. This is only an option if you are using Windows XP, however. If you do have Windows XP you can get to your System Files Checker by clicking "Start," "Run," and then typing "sfc/scannow" when the open box appears. From there, follow the instructions on the screen. You will then need to restart your computer.

Microsoft Support: Troubleshooting Outlook Express Error Messages

Microsoft Support: Outlook Express Help and Errors