How to Back Up an Outlook Express Blocked Senders List

Some people are good about regular backups of their often-used files. However, they can forget to back up the extra stuff, like the "Blocked Senders" list in Outlook Express. Ask yourself if you really want to go through blocking those senders again. Then take a few minutes to follow these steps to back up your "Blocked Senders" list in Outlook Express.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Know that unlike Outlook, the Microsoft email program called Outlook Express does not let you back up the "Blocked Senders" file within the program. You must do this through the Windows Registry.

2. Choose "Start" and click on "Run." Type "regedit" in the open box. Click "OK."

3. Locate the registry key, HKEY CURRENT USER\Identities. Click on the subkeys to find your correct username.

4. Choose the registry subkey for your identity. Select "HKEY CURRENT USER\Identities\(Identity Number)\Software\Microsoft\Outlook Express\5.0\Block Senders."

5. Open the registry menu and click "Export Registry File."

6. Change the location for this backup "Blocked Senders" file to your desktop in the "Save in" box. Type "blocked senders reg" and save. Exit the registry menu.

7. Copy the "Blocked Senders" registry key file on your desktop to another location for safekeeping. Options include removable media, such as a CD or thumb drive, or another partition on your computer.

Tips & Warnings

• Repeat the backup procedure for blocked senders lists in each identity in Outlook Express.
• Users should be precise while modifying the registry. One incorrect entry can create serious problems. Back up your registry before modifying it.