I’m currently experimenting with Windows Live. I was drawn in because the latest versions of Windows (Vista, 7 and even XP with the latest service packs) don’t come with Outlook Express. Windows Live Mail is the tool they offer. I must admit I’m finding it all a tad confusing! The initial installation was easy and at a glance Live Mail is no different from most email programs I’ve encountered. The interface is attractive and simple – with a preview feature which makes it look like simplified version of Outlook. It appears to offer all the features I’m looking for, so what is causing me all this confusion? The part I’m struggling with is the “Live” element and the more I play with it the more confused I’m becoming. I assumed (this may be the route of the problem) that “Live” would mean my emails, contacts, appointments etc. are being stored somewhere on the internet either in addition to or as well as on my hard drive. However, if they are, I can’t find them! Each attempt I make the online section of Windows Live encourages me to sign up for additional email addresses or Hotmail accounts and at one point resulted in a message going to every single person in my contacts folder – inviting them to “accept me?” – which sounds a bit needy!
The reason I’m persevering is that the whole Windows Live package comes with all manner of free software and, if I can get my head around it, a method of sharing files and being able to access them from any pc. In fact, I’m writing this blog entry using Windows Live Writer, which seems to be working pretty well. What I particularly like is that it will work with WordPress and isn’t limited to whatever Microsoft decide is their preferred blog provider. I need to check out the Live Photo Gallery; hopefully it will interface with my Flickr account.
One disappointment for me was that Moviemaker or Moviemaker Live as it is now called won’t work with XP. I was a big fan of the old version of Moviemaker – I’ll test the Live version on my Windows 7 pc and provide an update.
I’ll keep you posted.
All the best
John
