Dear Computer Lady,
My husband and I both use outlook express for our e-mail because we were told that outlook can only be set up for one user. Right now we go to file and switch users. I would really like to be able to use outlook or something like it for birthdays, reminders, etc.
Will windows live mail allow both of us to use Outlook?
We are about to buy a new computer because our old one is soooo sloooowww. Some of the software packages offer outlook and some don’t.
thanks, Linda for Washington State
Dear Linda,
Outlook Express does have the ability to switch identities which is not included in Windows Live Mail, or in Microsoft Outlook.
On their website, Microsoft explains that you should now create separate windows user accounts and set up your email program for each user in their own account. This allows each person to not only have their own email setup, but also to have their own favorites, contact list, documents and photos.
If you don’t like the idea of switching users every time you want to check your email, you do have one or two other options.
You can install two different email programs, and each person would use a different one. For example, you could use Windows Live Mail, and your husband could use Outlook (or if you want another free program, use Mozilla Thunderbird).
The last option I have for you is to use just one email program, with both email addresses and have the messages go into their own folder. I do know that when you set up two email addresses in Windows Live Mail, that it creates an inbox, drafts, sent items and other folders for each email address. On the left side of the window, you would see one e-mail address with folders listed under it, then the other email address with folders listed beneath it. When you check your email, it will go into the inbox for your address.
I hope this helps you see what your options are, and decide which one works best for you.
Elizabeth
PS: Windows Live Mail includes a calendar where you can keep birthdays. Google also has a calendar that will email you your daily appointments.
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Elizabeth Boston is a Web designer, Social Media Consultant and managing editor of, “Ask The Computer Lady”.
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