How to Open PPS Files in Outlook Express

A PPS (PowerPoint Show) file is an extension used for Microsoft PowerPoint slide shows that have been saved to be viewed only and not edited. Outlook Express is an information management program offered by Microsoft, although it is generally used as an email program. PPS files are popularly used to send slide shows as an email attachment. With the appropriate software, you can easily open a PPS file in Outlook Express by following a few steps.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Make certain you have one of Microsoft's PowerPoint Viewer applications downloaded to your computer. The two versions, 2003 and 2007, are available at no charge, although the 2003 version will no longer be available on the website after October 16, 2009. Prior to downloading one of the Viewer applications, check the system requirements, which vary slightly. Both versions are linked in Resources.

2. Log in to Outlook Express. Click once on the Windows "Start" button, once on "Programs" and select the "Outlook Express" listing.

3. Make certain that Outlook Express is configured to accept email attachments. Click once on the "Tools" drop-down menu and select "Options." Click once on the "Security" tab, and uncheck the box beside the "Do not allow attachments..." selection. Click once on the "OK" button.

4. Open the email message that has the Microsoft PPS attachment. Double-click on the message in your "Inbox."

5. Double-click on the attachment icon. This will launch the PPS file on your screen.

6. Click once anywhere in the PPS screen to move forward through the slide show. You can exit the slide show at any time by pressing the "Escape" (Esc) key. There is also a navigational key near the bottom left of the slide show screen. If you click once on this key, a listing of options will pop up to allow you to move throughout the slide show.

References

• MS Outlook Express Support Page

Resources

• PowerPoint Viewer 2007 Download
• PowerPoint Viewer 2003 Download