How to reinstate WinMail onto Windows 8 or Windows 10

[endeavor]

How to Reinstate WinMail onto Windows 8 or Windows 10 ..including Server
Windows 7 users go: Here

..updated December, 2020..​

   Warning

Microsoft no longer supports Windows Mail, aka WinMail. It's recommended you use another well known supported email client. Using WinMail on Win8 or especially Win10 is not supported, and is a special per-user decision who understands completely that reactivating WinMail is for Advanced users who importantly have the Technical Ability to make the changes, have backups of everything including your OS, and to be your own tech support for WinMail going forward. If you decide to complete this tutorial you accept the fact that you are using WinMail as-is. It might be necessary to uninstall other email clients to resolve any WinMail conflicts in some environments. Understand it's likely that new OS updates from Microsoft will break WinMail's operation, and to fix makes it necessary to rerun the tutorial again to reinstate it. With those things in mind, this tutorial was written so that you can rerun it without affecting WinMail user data. Please see this Errata (Bug List) post before you install, to be aware of the current information about known issues using WinMail within Win8/10/Server, these issues are programmatic and in most cases cannot be resolved by this tutorial, and will never be fixed.

Having said all that disclaimer, if you have the technical ability, and can put up with the annoying minor by-product bugs, then like so many of us still enjoy using WinMail on Windows 8/10/Server ...ymmv!

..The default language of this tutorials install is English..
​

Important Time Line Notes (click spoiler)

Spoiler: Important! Time Line Notes:

   Information

Important information gathered from along the way over the years, detailed and noted here for reference:
(..don't consider it's just mundane information, until the moment it outlines and references the exact problem you're having - then therefore extremely helpful..)

Note: 2012 ..if you run SFC /SCANNOW on Win8/Win10/Server (not Win7) ..most times it Will Break WinMail's operation each time you run it since it also overwrites many of the necessary files within your Windows Mail folder. Also know if you update from Windows 8 to 8.1 and especially Win10/Server, as well with doing many major MS updates that come along, they Will stop WinMail from working by overwriting many of the needed WM programs folder files, etc, change permissions, etc; but no problem, just run through the complete tutorial process again which will put back in place anything that was broken.

Note: 7/2016 ..if doing a repair, then before proceeding, *** to clear any errant instances of WinMail.exe still running: reboot, or 'end task' on WinMail.exe ..iow, if doing a repair on WinMail because it won't start after an update, and you had been clicking WinMail.exe numerous times to open but it wouldn't - then be sure to reboot Before you start the repair to Clear any errant instances of those WinMail.exe that are still running (there can be many) ..or instead of rebooting you can open Task Manager and 'end task' on any/all running instances of WinMail.exe - in any case do it Before you proceed to delete/replace the program folder. The point is you can't (it won't let you) delete it if any instance of WinMail.exe is still running.

Note: 1/2018 ..starts Post #2 procedures which are ONLY for newer Win10, etc, versions - see Step 11 for its requirements

Note: 2/2018 ..for Windows 10 latest builds v1709+ or Server 2019+, it is to know that after installing Updates and it breaks WinMail, you will have to re-do All The Steps on Post 1 & Post 2 again - trust me here, it's just faster/easier doing the complete way in the long run! You see, some updates delete/change a few files and registry entries, while others do it much more aggressively removing most all WinMail files and code, and so it's Much Quicker, More Efficient, Complete, and all inclusive to just run the entire procedures again to catch/fix all changes at once! A fresh install of Win10 1709+ now Requires both Post 1 & 2 anyway ..Feel Confident no matter how many times you run this Tutorial, its files and procedures were specifically made to Not change any current_user settings or message store, and so nothing of that will be touched. When you're familiar with doing the procedures, you'll be able to do it all in just a few minutes!

Note: 7/2019
The latest Upgrades of Windows 10, v1903+ ..Will Further Break WinMail !!!
Because of the latest Win10 upgrades causing so many MSF corruptions lately - everyone should create a Full Backup Now! ..and then periodically, but Especially Before You Upgrade!
Not only will the Upgrade process remove most of the code that supports WinMail operation, but if you have an existing working WinMail setup present, it will now also corrupt your MSF (Message Store Folder) which contains all your past emails, overwriting accounts info, etc. This is why it's Imperative that you First create a Backup of the Backup/Restore procedures, in order to have the Restore oppurtunity to perfectly recover from it - and have even more transferable benefits.
For Windows 10 users who Upgrade builds over an existing one on v1903+ ..As We Should Always Do Once A Month Anyway, but Especially Before Any Installs or Upgrades - is to First, Create a WinMail full Backup of the 1, 2, 3 Backup/Restore procedure given in it's spoiler below. Recently many people with their WinMail client working well, had upgraded to new Windows 10 builds, and after going through the full WinMail tutorial afterwards to re-instate WinMail, only to find their existing WinMail message store was left corrupted from the 'upgrade process itself' experiencing various errors, or the Save, Send, or Receive error message prompts 0x800C013E or 0x800C103C, similar to these screenshots shown here:

Spoiler: Screenshots: Send, or Save, or 0x800C013E error messages

Or



Or



Or...

..even without getting errors shown above some users stated it would not send or receive; or instead when opening WinMail it would just close!

The easiest fix to resolve any of these errors above, is after you run though all procedures in Post 1 & 2 again, is to take the backup you've previously made, and perform a Restore of the 1, 2, 3 Backup/Restore procedures given in it's spoiler below, and you'll be back up and running again in minutes.

One final note for everyone about this issue, don't mistake Send/Receive errors specifically related to not having your Accounts> Properties> Server & Advanced tabs not filled in properly, with Message Store Corruption Send/Receive errors ..of course these Account setup errors are a different issue.
When first setting up your Accounts, Everyone needs to check with and follow their Own particular Mail Server setup instructions given for these settings, and each company whether it be Comcast, Yahoo, Gmail, etc, each seems to be different in one way or another - so be attentive; and also whether you use IMAP or POP.

____________________________________________________________________________________​

fwiw, before running this tutorial I've always temporarily disabled UAC, and the latest versions Windows Defender, just so as not to be bothered by any unnecessary nuisance prompts, but of course ymmv. I use a different AV anyway..

Caution: The Win7 Tutorial procedure will Not Work to reinstate WinMail on Win8/10/Server, or vice-versa!
Do not use the attached WinMailEdit.reg here with the one given in the Win7 Tutorial either because it's only for Win8/10/Server! ..if you do then during first install you'll lose SFC usage protection from breaking Win7 WinMail.
Use each tutorials own install procedure for the OS that it's posted for! Only the Backup/Restore Procedure is the same for all.

Warning: Besides Windows 8, if you're keeping a Windows 10 version Before v1709 or Before Server 2019 installed for your use, then Do Not Use Any Post 2 Procedures or any of its Attached Files or it will irrevocably break your WinMail installation and to recover that - would require a System Restore (or other) to reset. In conjunction with Post 1, Post 2 is additionally used Only for Win10 v1709+ and Sever2019+ users, only!

<tidbit> If there are any Win10 v1703 users out there who still want to stay on v1703 in its older build b16193 or earlier (i can't imagine anyone but just in case) ..understand you can't upgrade past its b16193 point or it'll break WinMail's operation: see spoiler below "Circumvented Info 6/2017"; if however you specifically want v1703 but want to install its latest build (beyond b16199) you still can, but besides post 1 you'll now need to also include post 2 procedures to fix it. Note: in the tutorial to avoid any confusion with these v1703 build specifics, instead of listing v1703_b16199+ ...I just list it as v1709+

Note: Anywhere in the tutorial that there's a + after a version number, indicates it also includes all versions beyond that one; for instance, when it says v1709+ means v1709, 1803, 1809, 1903, 1909 and so on. Same with Server 2019+

Important WinMail Backup/Restore procedures! - A Must Read (click spoiler)

Spoiler: Backup/Restore Procedure:

   Information

WinMail Backup/Restore Procedures
​

Do yourself a big favor right now - First, Create Backups!
It's imperative that you first create a Backup, Before, you do a Windows Update or Upgrade! It will prove to be of ultimate benefit going forward, because your WinMail Message Store Will Get Corrupted! ..and this 1, 2, 3 method below will be your only way to easily recover and restore it!

The reason for these backups is three fold: To easily repair/recover from a random WinMail caused corruption, or an OS upgrade that caused WinMail message store corruption or other corruption, or, importantly to be able to easily restore or transfer your perfectly working WinMail setup between the same, or from a previous build or OS version to a new one. And so Always create this full 1, 2, 3 backup procedure BEFORE you upgrade! Always have it ready to go! ..which enables you to always be ready and able to efficiently and easily recover from any WinMail mishap!

This method is used when you already have WinMail fully setup with all options and settings the way you want, and it contains years of Accounts and their settings, all Emails, all Newsgroups, and all their Folder structures, all your GUI settings, etc. So before you upgrade or do anything - be sure to create this WinMail full 1, 2, 3 backup for safety, so that you can always easily recover from any message-store corruptions or whatever happens; or you can also Restore or Transfer your entire WinMail setup to same, or another computer, or to different OS's right back to Exactly how it was on the source the day you created it, without the need for 'importing' which never gets things like folder structures right anyway.
This is a direct backup, and assumes you're using the default message store location folder.
There is nothing more comprehensive and completely accurate than this next manual Backup/Restore procedure.

Please be sure to have read in the previous Time Line spoiler, Note: 7/2019, and in general realize just how important it is that you always have available a recent Full Backup of these Backup/Restore procedures below, and the consequences if you don't with lost mail data - I can't impress upon everyone enough of how important this is going forward!

The only time you create a Backup is on a Fully Working WinMail setup. A Restore is done anytime After you've finished the reinstate procedures for your OS version, either after the main Step 12 or Step 15 depending on OS version; and anytime thereafter.

Create Backups:
*Note: Assumes your Windows Mail Message Store Folder (MSF) is in its original default location:
%USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows Mail
(If it's not there, change it back to default, and check to see all is working and in order, before continuing please)

1. On your previous but up to date 'Already Fully Setup' and has been 'Fully Working' WinMail client (normally already full of your previous emails, newsgroups, and accounts) ..simply right click on and create a zip of this Message Store folder:
C:\Users\yourcomputername\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows Mail
..also referred to as: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows Mail
It contains All Mail/News emails with All your individual Folder Structure layouts created, All Accounts info**, and more..
The important reason to .zip the MSF (Message Store folder) ..is to preserve it, Always having it readily available to restore, as is, able to unlimited times unzip its pristineness; never allowing any function ever able to modify its valuable contents.
2. Regedit: right-click Export this entire Folder Key below: (on your latest WinMail that's already been fully setup and options done)
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows Mail
It contains All Settings for the WinMail GUI Layout ..all Tools> Options Settings, Columns, Rules, etc.
3. Open WinMail, go to Tools> Accounts> and highlight Each Account and click the Properties button, click the Servers tab, and write down or better yet copy/paste into a text file the username & password - Do This For Each Account! ..Everything! else throughout all accounts settings there, already gets saved automatically in step 1 above when creating the MSF backup.
Tip: If you forgot your password and want to reveal what's behind the xxxx asterisk bullets, use This Program to reveal them.
Now save all Three of these backups above aside - to somewhere other than your current hard drive..

To Restore:
When you do a fresh install of a new Windows OS, or an OS Upgrade, or OS Update, and then to setup WinMail again afterwards you First run through the appropriate steps on its corresponding OS WinMail tutorial, in order to reverse the WinMail regression done. Then before opening WinMail - restore those 3 items you've previously created above, like this:
1. Delete the Windows Mail MSF (Message Store folder) that's currently there, then extract the zip of your Latest saved MSF in its place - Be Careful when you Replace the Current Windows Mail MSF: ..first you Delete it, then extract your zip backup one in its place - also understand it needs to be at the Exact Path! You can select to Extract Here, but no matter what just Be Sure you Do Not end up with Two nested: "Windows Mail\Windows Mail" MSF folders one inside the other, breaking default path and eventually corrupt. The Windows Mail MSF path here, must be this:
%USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows Mail
Do Not extract/copy/paste the MSF on top of itself or its contents, which causes additions, mixing, and sure corruption, so understand you need to Delete the old folder first, then, place the working backup one in its place! That's So Important!
2. Merge the latest saved registry export of your personal HKCU reg saved above. (double-click, or, right-click on reg and select merge)
3. To complete** the last item of the Accounts restore, security, after opening WinMail you only need to re-enter the name/password of your mail and news servers. Go to Accounts> Properties> Server tab, and there enter them in the slots for it, and is the preferred way (or instead when you first connect to your mail server it'll prompt you to enter them, but don't forget to checkmark the Remember box) You should know what your servers name/pass are anyway having them saved in txt file somewhere. **(Everything else within the Accounts settings, gets restored with step 1)

This 3 step Backup/Restore process is many times faster and much More Accurate than any other method, matching its complete source layout so that when you open WinMail, Everything, is already setup Exactly like its source in every detail, fully setup with All Emails, Accounts, Settings, complete WinMail client GUI layout, including exact mail folder structures layout, etc.
Obviously 'Always' keep your backups dated very current!

If however you Did Not make or have a backup available to restore (Don't Let That Happen!) ..especially for Windows 10 and you have WinMail message store corruption errors of any kind as outlined in the Time Line spoiler Note 7/2019, or Other.. ..then as a last resort, in order to remove the message store corruption without that important backup: Close WinMail, and you'll need to 'Delete' the message store folder. Now when you start WinMail 'Without' one, it will create a brand new message store folder from scratch, everything set default, new xxx.oeaccount numbers, and all empty folders ..and unfortunately you'll now need to proceed the long way around to set WinMail all up from scratch again... ...However...
...click spoiler for Other last resort info:

Spoiler: Other Last Resorts - from Other Types Of Backups

However.. another last resort could also be..
..If you were geek enough to have previously saved a full Partition Image backup of your C:\ Partition at some point in time, and it had WinMail working on it, then lucky is you can either just pull its 'dated' MSF out and use that if necessary; or, you have the option to do a full Partition Image restore with it, which lets you start over from its particular dated time-stamp.
..or..
You also could try the limited Windows built-in Restore Point method, if enabled, will give you limited days and chances to possibly restore back to how it was before you started your Win10 'Update' (but it will not restore from a full Win7 to Win10 'Upgrade' though) ..and only gives a few dated restore points to choose from, which fall off the list with time And with each one used - and so on your first try be sure to choose the time-stamp date that's a full day 'Before' it broke! Anyway this is why Partition Imaging is far superior to Restore Points as it has No Limitations.

To save yourself all this effort, and lost mail, etc ..simply follow the 1, 2, 3 Backup & Restore procedure as outlined above. Create and maintain a recent Full Backup 'in advance' to always have it ready to go! ..Whether it be for MSF corruption recovery, or for transferring your WinMail setup to another OS! ..it takes just a few minutes to create them, and when needed (you will) ..it takes just a few minutes to restore saving you so! much! hassle! - it can be a real lifesaver!

   Note

These above 1, 2, 3 'WinMail to WinMail' Backup/Restore Procedures (only), applies to all: Vista/Win7/Win8/Win10/Server, and a working (MSF) Message Store Folder and its HKCU (..!when done as directed!..) ..can all be exchanged back-n-forth from one OS to the other it makes no difference - I do it all the time and works flawlessly! ..it's a wonderful, easy, process!

There is nothing more comprehensive and completely accurate than this manual Backup/Restore procedure.

Notes: Now I know at the bottom of this tutorial there is also a related tutorials link for a (2007 Vista Version) Import/Export Backup and Restore article, which is best for older non-Microsoft mail clients. It can be used for WinMail although it's not nearly as good or complete as this 1, 2, 3 method above which again is specifically for 'WinMail to WinMail' setups = I Much Prefer the 1, 2, 3 method for a number of beneficial reasons already discussed throughout!
Also Note: On Win10 upgrades especially, do not use the old import/export .iaf account file method! ..(click spoiler to see why)

Spoiler: Windows 10 - Do Not use .iaf export/import = explanation

On Windows 10 upgrades especially, do not use the old export/import .iaf account file methods - it cannot fix the MSF corruption that happens from the Win10 upgrade process itself, but if used furthers that corruption by mixing old xxxx.oeaccount info into a 'Before and After' upgrade conflict where erroneous accounts info gets added.
Use the full 1, 2, 3 Backup/Restore procedure above instead assuring to prevent/circumvent those problems, and more!
For one thing an export .iaf file contains info for one account only and so you need to create one for each account, if you have 15 accounts you'd need to export for each one but that's not the real problem ..iaf files contain and export more than just name/passwords, they also export other associated xxxx.oeaccount info, and so when MSF accounts gets corrupted from the upgrade process itself, you further corrupt it by mixing now non-compatible .iaf account info that's not able to rectify corruption caused by the upgrade process itself - either way though, WinMail will not operate properly..
..So, to properly revert MSF corruption after an upgrade, only use the 1, 2, 3 Backup/Restore procedure above. The Restore process will restore EVERYTHING proper all at once, in perfect order, exactly how it was the day you created it!

*Caution: Naturally this procedure won't transfer properly for those who have message store corruption on their Source setups! *It also may not work correctly for those who have moved their MSF from its default location to another! ..So don't use it! ..A modified backup/restore procedure would have to be done (which has not yet been specified)
Alternatively as a last resort on your new setup, when you reinstate WinMail 'not' using the Backup/Restore procedure and you have another message source, instead do the rest of the tutorial which starts a fresh WinMail and sets it up from scratch - then if needed because of a non-WinMail mail client message source, you can use the built-in import features (only supports some older clients) ..it's not as good, but sometimes better than nothing if it's your only choice. Otherwise simply start a fresh slate from scratch with your first email, etc.

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Win8/10/Server x86/x64
Reinstate WinMail: (Please understand everything on these posts is for advanced computer users only)
1. If this is a fresh install and you 'do not' have any previous 'working' WinMail setups that you want to bring forward, then you can skip this and go to step 2. Otherwise, it's Imperative that Anyone who has WinMail fully working, and wants to Preserve its footprint, being able to restore/recover/transfer it as is, Especially Win10 users your message store will get corrupted during upgrades and this is the only way to restore it, then Before proceeding to Upgrade your OS - you must Preserve Everything by First creating a full 'Backup' of the Backup & Restore procedure. Read the Backup/Restore spoiler above for full information on when, why, and how to do that. !
2. Go to Folder Options, and set these settings as shown in my screenshot below: (click spoiler to see screenshot)

Spoiler: Screenshot of Folder Options settings

When finished if you prefer, you can put the settings back; I personally leave it, ymmv

3. Install Brinks Take Ownership reg from Here (..or for Win10 Here, but registry lines are identical)
4. Then right click on your "Program Files\Windows Mail" folder and click Take Ownership...
..always using "Program Files\Windows Mail" folder only! ..x64 users Never touch/use that other folder there called: ''Programs Folder (x86)'' !
5. Then right click on your "Program Files\Windows Mail" folder, and Delete it ***(see Time Line Note: 7/2016)
6. Then extract, and copy/paste the attached, x86, or, x64 'Windows Mail' folder in its place... (match your OS bit)
All the Correct files needed are Attached at the bottom of these posts to download - confirm and match your OS bit, x86 or x64; you cannot mix files from one bit into the other!
7. Create a shortcut from the program folder 'WinMail.exe' file you just copied there - to the Desktop (use to start WM 'After' you're all done)
8. extract, copy/paste the attached "msidcrl30.dll'' file over to "C:\Windows\System32\msidcrl30.dll'' (again match your OS bit)
9. extract, merge the attached WinMailEdit.reg (..this reg is for both x86 and x64)
10. extract "Update_5-2018.zip" (bug fix) copy/paste revised msoe.dll to WM programs folder (thanks dadreamer for your work on this and its reg)

Spoiler: Screenshot: results of Update 5/2018, fix for Advanced Tab

(click image to open full size)

11. Only for Win10 v1709+/Sever2019+ users Must continue to Post #2 to finish before opening WinMail; Otherwise for all Earlier versions of Win8/Win10/Server stay on post #1 going to step 12 below - you're finished; you Do Not do post #2 !
(anywhere in the tutorial that there's a + after a version number, indicates it also includes all versions beyond that one)
12. You are done..
~ Start WinMail and she opens immediately...
...from here you setup the Windows Mail client as normal...
(click spoiler for more info within)

Spoiler: More information:

For those users who already had WinMail working great on another computer setup, and have done a new fresh OS install elsewhere, or have bought a new computer, or have updated their OS, etc, and want to transfer that other working WinMail message store setup, GUI layout, settings, etc, completely 'AS IS' to their new computer setup (or even same setup) please go back and fully read and understand the 'Backup/Restore Procedure' spoiler on how to do that.

You can do a Restore at anytime After you're finished with your WinMail re-instate procedures for your OS version, which is either after Step 12, or Step 15 depending on OS version, or anytime thereafter.

_________________________________________________________

After correctly doing steps 1-12, I had WinMail start up within minutes on each of these OS's as shown below..
..installed/tested on both x86/x64

Here's first open WinMail screenshots I made in 2012 using it on Win8 beta CP, then to Win8.1 Pro, Server 2012 R2, Server 2016
(click spoiler to see screenshots)

Spoiler: Screenshots of WinMail on Win8 CP, to Win 8.1 Pro, Server 2012 R2, Server 2016

(click any images to open full size)

Windows 8 Consumer Preview, 2012



Windows 8.1 Pro, 2013



Server 2012 R2



Server 2016

Here's more WinMail screenshots made on the first Win10 Preview, then to Win10 pro v1507, v1511, v1607, v1703_pre-b16199
(click spoiler to see screenshots)

Spoiler: Screenshots of WinMail on Win10 Technical Preview, to v1507, v1511, v1607, v1703_pre-b16199

(click any images to open full size)

Win10 Technical Preview



Windows 10 v1507, b10240



Windows 10 v1511, b10586



Windows 10 v1607 b14393



Windows 10 v1703, b15063
(For more info about staying with this particular version, go back and see spoiler "Time Line Notes" and look under "<tidbit>")
..anything beyond b16199 with v1703 here, also requires post #2 procedures to fix it.

All new screenshots for newer versions of Win10 & Server will be in Post #2​

________________________________________

Spoiler: Circumvented Info 6/2017

6/2017
Microsoft has removed the OE legacy code of WinMail, see within article here:
Features removed or deprecated in Windows 10
This further affects/breaks Win10 WinMail users starting at Windows 10 v1703 b16199 onward
Windows 8 and Windows 7 WinMail users were unaffected

Updated 1/2018
WinMail is now working again on Windows10 v1703_b16199+ (onward) ..see/implement Post #2 to fix it!
(to avoid any v1703 build confusion - I just list it as v1709+ (for more info see "<tidbit>" in Time Line spoiler)

_____________________________

For using WinMail on Windows10 v1709+ ...see Post #2 for more information
All new procedures & screenshots for these newer versions of Win10 & Server will always be put in Post #2
_____________________________
​

   Tip

As of December, 2020, the instructions given here supersede all other instructions given in forthcoming older posts. Realize some of the posts that follow are nearly 9 years old, and many of the link pointers within have become mis-linked over time, many of the files or information within them is outdated, incomplete, or superseded with more accurate information - and so be careful. However you can always be sure that the latest info from all research is incorporated into this tutorial post, and its downloads are the latest available. This post is continuously kept up-to-date, and so..
...Always refer to this Tutorial post for the very latest updated information

Good luck, and long live WinMail

...click the Like button below when you're done, it's appreciated...

Related Tutorials

---

• Backup/Restore Procedure 'WinMail to WinMail' (See Backup/Restore Spoiler Above)
• Built-in Import/Export Backup and Restore (2007 Vista Version)
• Windows Calendar - Import into Windows 7
• Windows Mail - Windows 7 Help Forums

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[endeavor]

..updated June, 2020..
WinMail Additional Steps Needed For
Windows 10, v1709 - v2004+
..including Server 2019+
​

( ! Do Not use these Post 2 steps on earlier OS versions than what's listed here or it will irrevocably break WinMail operation; requiring a System Restore (or other) to reverse ! )
~ ! These next steps are Only for Win10 v1709 - v2004+ / Server 2019+ ..all earlier versions of Win10/Win8/Server stay on Post 1 !
~ If you are installing the latest Win10 versions listed, then be sure, do not begin to use these next steps below without First completing steps 1-11 above, skip step 12, and before opening WinMail, do these steps below:

13. extract, copy/paste contents of the attached x64 or x86 -System32.zip, to the System32 folder (match OS bit) .(yes to any file overwrites)
14. extract, then merge Both of the Two attached .reg files (reg_v1709+.zip & 5-2018_UpdateReg.zip) . (reg's are for both x86 and x64) . 9
15. Then you are done..
~ Start WinMail and she opens immediately..
..from here you setup the Windows Mail client as normal...

After, doing those last steps, now Be Sure to set WinMail as the Default Mail Client if desired (is needed for various functions)
Complete the settings as shown in these two screenshots:

Spoiler: Screenshots of How To Set WinMail Default Mail Client

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After, you set WinMail default as shown above, then if desired you can also set WinMail to be able to open individual .eml extension files manually, and one easy way would be by clicking on any .eml file, and set the GUI prompt like this:

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All the latest v1709+ WinMail fixes are included in post 2, including Advanced Tab fix assist & SendTo Mail Recipient - MAPI

Spoiler: Screenshot of MAPI now fixed on v1709+

__________________________________________________


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Here's more screenshots I made using Post 2 OS's, upon first open of WinMail on each of these OS versions:
..installed/tested on both x86/x64 where applicable.

Windows 10 Pro, v1709

Spoiler: Win10 Pro v1709

(click image to open full size)

Windows 10 Pro, v1803

Spoiler: Win10 Pro v1803

(click image to open full size)

Windows 10 Pro, v1809

Spoiler: Win10 Pro v1809

(click image to open full size)

Windows 10 Enterprise, v1809 LTSC

Spoiler: Win10 Enterprise v1809 LTSC

(click image to open full size)

Server 2019

Spoiler: Server 2019

Server Standard with Desktop Experience (x64)
(click image to open full size)

Windows 10 Pro, v1903

Spoiler: Win10 Pro v1903

(click image to open full size)

Windows 10 Pro, v1909

Spoiler: Windows 10 Pro, v1909

(click image to open full size)

Windows 10 Pro, v2004

Spoiler: Windows 10 Pro, v2004

(click image to open full size)

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Everything was fully proven out, also file/registry simplified the procedure, and removed unnecessary redundancy.
Everything was Tested / Working on my own live setups.

Please be sure you read and understand the Errata (Bug List) linked on the first post
_________________________________________________________

Remember: as it says in the post 1 spoiler notes, that going forward when you install a new Windows Update or Upgrade and it breaks WinMail for the OS versions in this post 2, you will always have to perform the steps in Both Posts 1 & 2 again to fix it. In some cases it may also require you to do a Restore of the Backup/Restore Procedures - and so be sure to create a Backup in the first place! ..Please read and understand all information within the spoiler notes on the first post.

Good luck, and long live WinMail

...click the Like button below when you're done, it's appreciated...

.

 

[endeavor]

Please Read Before Posting!...(updated December, 2020)

(click Spoiler)

Spoiler: For New & Long Time members...

For newer members who are reading Post 1 & 2 of this WinMail Tutorial for the first time, please understand it's for Medium to Advanced computer users only, and anyone who does not understand computers and have a good feel how to maneuver around on them quite well, should Not be attempting this WinMail project; having said that it's quite easy for Advanced computer users.

For everyone, if you are having a problem and something is not working:
..take a long pause to think about it, and read everything before posting, and please go back and read the entire Tutorial again, and again, and again, especially paying extra attention to what's in the first two spoilers on Post #1; actually everything really. ..Many years of time, effort, and understanding are jam packed into this tutorial, and every question anyone could ever have, and has already been asked, those answers have already been painstakingly and thoughtfully incorporated one way or the other into the tutorial. The Tutorial is also continually being updated often! All instructions are worded and crafted in such a way for a reason and purpose - for you to achieve a successful outcome!
I do not offer random PM support. All researched and thought-out questions should be posted to the forum please.
After accomplishing all of the above, and you still need help, then if you do post please provide your OS version and build, and a Full Detailed Description of what's wrong, and I'll be most happy to help you. History shows us though that 99.9% of the time, answers to most questions were because the user forgot to apply one of the attachments, or the wrong one, or not properly follow the directions assuring things are placed correctly - because rest assured when done correctly, the WinMail Tutorial is 100% working!

For long time users.. on Vista, Win7 or Win8, and Especially Win10 users! ..and your WinMail setup has been working fine for years and you want to keep it 'as is' fully intact, and update forward, please listen carefully: Do Not proceed installing, upgrading, or even do any updates on Windows 10 until you First create a Full Backup, of the Backup & Restore instructions 1, 2, 3 - no exceptions! ..and always keep that Backup current, meaning, at least once a month create a new one, save it aside off of your current drive; even keep a few of your last dated backups. Do not proceed without this Backup! A few minutes of your time can save your (WinMail) life when the time comes and you need it - and for sure that time will come! Without that backup, you will have to start over from WinMail default, scratch, and have lost your entire message store, etc.

I actively encourage Everyone to be their own tech support method by completely reading and understanding the process of this tutorial, and once you 'get it' you will have complete control over your WinMail client; well, at least always being able to at any moment, restore it back to your last saved working backup - so be sure to keep that Backup current!

Ultimately, your ultimate best defense against ever losing Any data (besides the Backup & Restore procedures which is just for WinMail) ..but for All your drives data, is to create and maintain a recent Partition Image Backup of your OS partition (or the whole drive) ..you do that with your favorite drive imaging software - I personally do Both! (The OS's built-in Restore Point can be used for overall general data restore, and sometimes for reverting WinMail; however as explained in the tutorial it has a number of limitations!) (I turn it off since I only use drive imaging)

 

[endeavor]

WinMail Language Localization
(using original MS language files)

​

Spoiler: Notes

The WinMail Language project was previously done, fully tested and proven, but was never posted in its finalized form. As time has gone on, I've also occasionally tested/updated the process as the years and experience has grown.

At some point it's possible it will be revived and the final information posted to give users the files and ability to change WinMail from English, to the language that their OS was installed as, and set to.
However now at this stage of the game, it's more likely I will just leave it as a request only.

When available, it will be done via Forum request (I do not normally do PM requests for help)
For Advanced users only, No Exceptions Please.
Post a forum request with the poster giving full OS information, specify your OS, and whether x86 or x64 please, and you must have already used the above Post 1 (or Posts 1 & 2) attached files above (depending on OS and build) to have reinstated WinMail - since all procedures and files here require each other, and since they all work together in tandem leaning toward using some Win7 version files. Is also why I always try and use the Win7 Ultimate Language files in tandem with the tutorial attached files given, since I've found the combination offers me more flexibility than using Vista ones when changing to implement languages - without also having to revert other various dll versions all the way back to 2006 status at the same time. Simplicity, less changes, and ease of use is my goal here.
There are many ways to accomplish the language task though, ymmv, but I use the one that is best for this tutorial.

Please, you must show me that from this tutorial you Already have WinMail Fully working in English already please!
It is important! ...because before I will spend this amount of time to get the files together for you, I want to make sure you are a seasoned and serious WinMail user, and specifically used the files attached to this tutorial. To that end, please show me a screenshot of your WinMail setup 'opened' so I can see it; including in that screenshot also have your WinMail AboutBox opened and showing so that I can see it too for version verification (open tab: Help> About...)

When verified, I would then have to install your language on Both x86 & x64 setups, you would give me a week or more to get time to install via Win7 and distribute to Win8/Win10 to test & verify, then I would copy your language files out and zip, and post your language file set via zip attachment along with instructions how to transfer that to your own specific OS..
Whether I do that attachment on the forum, or via personal PM, is up for a decision at that time.

Because I only know how to speak English, so please you must be fluent in English for good communication understanding between the both of us, thank you.

..WinMail Tutorial Future Post Placeholder..​

...

 

[endeavor]

..WinMail Tutorial Future Post Placeholder..​

 

[elbmek]

I am typing on my win 7 laptop at present, somehow, without my telling it, it switched to using outlook (which I have always hated) as default for outgoing mail and deleted my gmail notifier!!!! Cheek!! Just reinstalled gmail notifier and my emails are swimming in calm water. Dont like windows email systems, they are antique.

 

[nickybum]

Hi,

Hope you can help - I followed all the instructions as descrided in endeavor's post (#10) and thought it had all worked. However when i click on the new 'Windows Mail' desktop icon I get a mesage saying "windows mail could not bestarted because msoe.dll could not be loaded".

Have I done something wrong?

Appreciate your help

 

[Ex_Brit]

I have Windows Mail and Windows Calendar (they go together so its worth doing both) working perfectly in Windows 8, but warning, security issues could ensue as Microsoft wont be patching it through Windows Update because it is totally unofficial. That's why we decided not to copy those tutorials over to these forums.

How to use Winmail on Windows 8.

Windows Calendar - Import into Windows 7 - Windows 7 Forums

 

[lanesharon]

Tried it but kept getting that msoe.dll could not be loaded message also.

 

[lanesharon]

Here's a solution for all who want to use winmail and windows 8.

Updating 3 computers I have from Vista & 7 to 8. Giving up WinMail would have been impossible for me. I run several rare cancer groups and websites. I have wayyyy too many WinMail emails that need to be kept, full of info I need to consolidate.

YOU, mathew, are my angel tonight. Have been trying to do this for a half a day. Then someone directed me to this post. I can't tell you how grateful I am. THANK YOU !

 

[elbmek]

Gave up on winmail a long time ago, don't even think about it now. Gmail for me, no contest.

 

[lanesharon]

I have a Gmail account. And, a Yahoo one, and several of my own website ones. I like the fact that I can easily aggregate all of those accounts into one place and respond to any of the emails using the original 'sent to' email address. WinMail allows me to do that.

 

[lanesharon]

Does anyone know how I can change the Default email client to WinMail on Windows 8 so that when I click on a 'mailto' link, I can get WinMail to come up? I tried a registry fix, but it did not work.

 

[Carol]

Problem after installing WM on Windows 8.
Everything I post is in red & marked as a watched conversation. I tried
to change it here: Tools>Options>Advanced Tab but
My Advanced tab shows nothing under Settings. Compelely blank.
Any help on how to make this show would be very appreciated.

Thank you.
Carol




How can I correct this?

 

[Ex_Brit]

Problem after installing WM on Windows 8.
Everything I post is in red & marked as a watched conversation. I tried
to change it here: Tools>Options>Advanced Tab but
My Advanced tab shows nothing under Settings. Compelely blank.
Any help on how to make this show would be very appreciated.

Thank you.
Carol




How can I correct this?

Not sure but I would assume with Windows Mail that you haven't followed the Windows 7 guide to the letter.
How to use Winmail on Windows 8.
That's assuming you mean the old WM from Vista.
Or see post #43 above.

 

[Carol]

Ok, I'll recheck.

 

[Ex_Brit]

I got mine to work, but I think it was more a lucky break than skill in my case. We didn't publish a tutorial here because we decided that WM is not the best choice for mail client on 8 as we are now talking two operating systems since it was officially supported.
I think it's a great shame that Microsoft dropped it in favour of Windows Live Mail. WLM is fine unless you have multiple accounts and then all those sets of folders become a royal pain in the you-know-what.

 

[Carol]

I could never get WLM to work correctly. It froze up almost everytime I opened it and I'd have to repair it.
It would work then until I closed it. I wanted to see newsgroups so Outlook didn't help either so opted to
install Windows Mail. Everything works fine on it except I can't change my watched conversations setting which
is a minor problem compared to WLM's frustration.

Thanks for the help.
Carol

 

[Ex_Brit]

Well good luck. I'm afraid with unofficial mail clients it's always a game of hit and miss unfortunately.

 

[Rat1960]

I got lucky. I had winmail.exe from a vista 64 operating system on my machine where I put windows 8 pro.
As such all my stuff was in \users\ME etc. and I kept those files.
As an administrator I opened file explorer and renamed "\program files\Microsoft Mail" to "\program files\Microsoft Mail8"
There are hidden and loaded files in that directory.
I then copied the windows mail files from vista creating the directory "\program files\Microsoft Mail".
msidcrl30.dll I placed in the same directory rather than system and running the 64bit regsrv32.exe in system32 or the 32bit regsrv32.exe in syswow64.
Rebooted the machine, went to the directory, fired off windows mail and that was that, straight back to my inbox.