To set the various options in Outlook express click on the Tools menu then click on Options.

The General tab appears first. The checkboxes are shown with the most common settings. If any settings are changed click on the Apply button.

The Read tab controls the actions of Outlook Express when reading messages. The checkboxes are set to the most common settings. If any settings are changed click on the Apply button.

Receipts are used to notify you when your message has been read by the recipient. And to control how Outlook Express responds to receipts in messages sent to you. If any settings are changed click on the Apply button.

The Send tab controls various Outlook Express actions when messages you create are sent. The settings here are strictly personal preference.

One overlooked feature of Outlook Express is that you do not have to be online to read and create replies to messages.

For example you go online, receive ten messages. You can disconnect, freeing up your phone line, read and reply to each message at your leisure.

If you un-check "Send messages immediately" Outlook Express will store your replies in the Outbox folder until the next time you go online. Much like the way postal mail works, most people don't run to the mailbox/post office for each individual letter. They take several at a time.

The Mail Sending Format controls whether you can create fancy messages (different type styles, sizes, colors, etc.). HTML allows fancy messages while Plain Text does not. Keep in mind that not all computer systems can handle HTML e-mails. If any settings are changed click on the Apply button.

The Compose tab allows you to adjust the default font used to compose messages. Whether you want a stationary to be used and whether to attach a virtual business card to all outgoing messages. 

The Stationary feature offers you the capability to create your messages on fancy "virtual" stationary, complete with background images, borders, watermarks, etc. 

The "virtual" business card is a specific attachment to outgoing messages. Its purpose mimics that of a real business card in that it contains your basic contact information. These virtual business cards are read by a recipients' e-mail program; automatically incorporating your name, e-mail address and other contact information directly into their electronic address book. If any settings are changed click on the Apply button.

Signatures are lines of text (or a file) that are appended automatically to all outgoing messages. Signatures are commonly used to list any repetitive information that you would normally send along with any outgoing message. For example you could include you full name, phone number and a favorite saying, famous quote or even a scanned image of your actual handwritten signature. If any settings are changed click on the Apply button.

If you have a need to encrypt e-mail or receive encrypted e-mails, the settings are controlled on the Security tab. This is for very advanced users. 

The Connection tab should be set as shown. If any settings are changed click on the Apply button.

The Maintenance tab controls various "housekeeping" functions within Outlook Express.

The most critical is whether you want messages in the Deleted Items folder to be permanently deleted from Outlook Express when you exit.

The settings shown below function in this manner, uncheck the first option, "Empty messages from ....." to never delete messages. You would have to specifically delete the messages from the Deleted Items folder in this instance. If any settings are changed click on the Apply button.

Click OK to close the Options window, returning to Outlook Express.