The development of email has enabled people a better form of international connectivity than many would have dreamed possible. From Yahoo to Outlook and everywhere in between, there are applications designed to make staying in touch and up to date as stress-free and seamless as possible. Microsoft is definitely one of the elite in this department, although Outlook is a bit of an unwieldy piece of software and probably offers more than most users require. By comparison, Windows Live Mail is as light and footless as a sparrow while still providing the capacity to manage multiple accounts, keep track of appointments with its in-built calendar and a news feeder so you can stay on top the latest broadcasts. One of the benefits of Windows Live Mail is that the calendar is incorporated into most active windows so you can check at a glance without having to switch to a new window.
Windows Live Mail employs a ribbon interface, reminiscent of Office 2010. This consists of a set of tabs that uncoil from the main icon, thereby condensing functionality. While familiar to most, it is not favoured by all. In its defence, however, this display enables the user to quickly switch between accounts and, once in a specific email account, there is little reason to leave that window as all the related functions are right there in the Home tab. Windows Live Mail provides a solid service and, if it appeals to you, you should really make the most of it while you still can. Microsoft have announced the discontinuation of Windows Essential, including Windows Live Mail so, unfortunately, there will be no further updates of this popular application. This is a bit of a shame as this a useful tool that amalgamates calendar events with multiple email accounts while additionally boosting the level of security across your accounts, whether they are Gmail, Yahoo or Hotmail. Windows Live Mail also allows you to read emails and keep track of events even while offline. As a free application, this is a hard worker, doing most of the daily grind for you so you can freely communicate within a hassle-free interface. While the setup does take a few minutes, the application is easy to install and getting the email client up and running takes no time at all – just enter the account information and off you go.
