How to Disable the Preview Pane in Windows Mail or Outlook Express

Why Turn Off Message Preview?

The message preview pane in Windows Mail or Outlook Express is really nice and useful, but it comes with the risk of catching a worm or virus by just previewing an email.

That's why it is best to disable the preview pane for security reasons in Windows Mail or Outlook Express, or at least to turn off automatic loading of remote images.

Disable the Preview Pane in Windows Mail or Outlook Express

To turn off the message preview pane in Windows Mail or Outlook Express:

• ›› Step by Step Screenshot Walkthrough

• Select View | Layout... from the menu.
• Make sure Show preview pane is not checked.
• Click OK.
  • You can also click Apply to put the new settings into effect without closing the configuration dialog.