When Outlook Express refuses to start, the problem is usually due to some damaged or missing files. However, Windows XP includes some utilities that can repair Outlook Express.
How to Use System File Checker
Click the "Start” button and choose “Run”. Type "sfc /scannow" in the Run dialog box. Click OK.
Step 2
The System File Checker wizard will appear. Follow the prompts to help it fix Outlook Express.
How to Use the Registry Editor
Step 1
Click "Start" and choose “Run”. Type “regedit” and click OK. The Registry Editor will open up.
Step 2
Go to "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE" on the left pane. Point to "SOFTWARE" and click it. Click the folder labeled "Microsoft" and click "Active Setup". Go to "Installed Components". You will see a folder labeled "{44BBA840-CC51-11CF-AAFA-00AA00B6015C}". Click it.
Step 3
Double click "IsInstalled". When the dialog box appears, replace 1 with 0 in the “Value Data” box. Click OK.
Other Ways to Repair Outlook Express
If Outlook Express is running slowly, close it and reboot your computer. If it solves the problems, it means your computer was running low on system resources.
To prevent it from happening, reduce the number of apps running when you use Outlook.
Delete Internet Explorer Temp Files
Corrupted temporary Internet Explorer files may lead to Outlook Express problems, including not being able to show messages. Open Internet Explorer. Point the cursor to the Tools menu and click "Delete Browsing History". Select "Delete Files". Click yes when asked if you want to delete the files. This ought to fix the problem.
Run Virus Scanners
Viruses can corrupt Outlook Express files. They can also cause it to slow down or not run at all. Emails are one of the most common ways to transmit viruses.
So make sure you run a virus scan at least once a month. Make sure your virus scanner is updated regularly. Better yet, get a scanner that checks incoming mail. You should also get an anti-spyware program.
Tips and Warnings
Delete any suspicious looking email. Don’t open emails with programs attached to them. Set up a spam filter so junk mail goes directly to the thrash. These emails may appear harmless, but malicious programs could be built in. They can corrupt some files and render Outlook unusable.
Another way to repair Outlook Express is to go online and download the latest patches. These patches can get rid of some bugs, slowdown issues and other problems. Just make sure that you download the right patch for your Outlook Express version. Follow any directions on the company website.
