I’m running windows xp home. I use Outlook Express for my mail with two identities. From time to time when I switch identities I lose outlook express and cannot retrieve my mail without restarting the computer. Is this a correctable problem?
– Patricia
Hi Patricia,
If you have Service Pack 1 installed in Windows XP, this is a known problem.
Start Outlook Express and click on File, click Identities and click Manage Identities. Remove the checkmark in Use this identity when starting a program.
Microsoft has a Knowledgebase Article where you can read more about this problem. It is located at: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;EN-US;q329084&
Here is another option for you:
Before changing identity, Press F1. The Outlook Express “Help” window will open (and leave it running in the background). Now click on FILE, click SWITCH IDENTITY and select your other identity.
Outlook Express will ask the question Do you wish to keep the same connection. Answer YES. It will go to the identity you select.
Finally, you could try a reinstall/repair of Outlook Express.
To re-install Outlook Express – Click Start, click Run and type %SystemRoot%Inf (then press Enter or click OK) Locate the MSOE50.INF file. Right-click on it and select Install.
For more information, see this Microsoft Knowledgebase article: How to Reinstall or Repair Internet Explorer and Outlook Express in Windows XP http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;q318378
Hope this helps!
Carey
Carey Holzman owns and operates Discount Computer Repair (602-527-9723) in Phoenix, Arizona, where he offers repairs, upgrades, custom built PCs and network wiring at highly competitive pricing. His networking tips have appeared in David Strom’s book, The Home Networking Survival Guide (McGraw/Hill), and his own book on PC maintenance is currently available at local book stores, amazon.com or directly through him. His free informative web site can be found at http://www.careyholzman.com. Donate $30 to help maintain his site and you’ll get a free autographed copy of his book. Carey can be reached directly at carey@careyholzman.com.
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