How to Get Rid of Microsoft Outlook As the Default

Choose a new email program to replace Outlook.

Computer manufacturers often set Microsoft Outlook as the default email client on a new PC. This will be done even if you don't use Microsoft Outlook. Every time you click on an email address link in your Web browser, Outlook will open on your screen. If you want to change which program is considered the default email client by your operating system, you need to go through the Windows Control Panel.

Instructions

1. Double-click the "Internet Explorer" icon on your Windows desktop.

2. Click "Tools."

3. Click "Internet Options."

4. Click the tab that reads "Programs."

5. Click the "Email Client" drop-down menu. Change the value from "Microsoft Outlook" to whichever program on your computer you'd like to use as your email client. When you're finished, click "Apply." Then click the button labeled "OK" to close the "Internet Options" window and return to the main Internet Explorer program window.

References

• Microsoft: Changing the Default Email Client