Windows Live Mail

The desktop client for Microsoft's email site

The Windows Live Mail Desktop client is a simple way to reach your email without using your Web browser. Browsers are fraught with problems that can slow down your receipt and response to email, but you can use this client to get to the mail as fast as possible.

The Pros of the Live Mail Client

• The Windows Live Mail client allows you to set up your login and password to be used automatically. You can have the program log in as soon as you turn on your computer.


• The program gives instant notifications of received email. This allows you to know the second you receive that email you have been waiting for all day.


• Windows Live Mail on your desktop is easy to reach because it can be saved as a separate program on your task bar.


• The client allows you to delete and send emails just as you would if you were in the browser.


• The client also makes it easy for you to toggle back and forth between a Web browser window and your email. You can have both programs open at the same time.

The Cons of the Live Mail Client

• The Windows Live Mail client could become annoying if you receive several emails at once. Receiving several notifications at once on your desktop can be counterproductive.


• The Windows Live Mail client does not enhance the file limitations on your email account.


• The Live Mail client must use an Internet connection. You are not free to use your email without being connected.


• Problems with the program itself could cause problems in your inbox. You must be careful to save emails as you compose them. Web browsers can recover pages, but this program cannot do the same.

The Windows Live Mail client allows you to sign in and read your email from your desktop. However, this program cannot save your emails the way a Web browser window can save them.

Other programs to consider

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Mozilla Thunderbird

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