Microsoft Outlook updates change the default mail handler to Microsoft
Outlook
http://www.oehelp.com/OETips.aspx#13

There are two workarounds, assuming you do not use Outlook or its
Calendaring function.

1. Configure Automatic Updates to the Notify Only setting and decline any
Outlook (not Office 2003) updates offered.

2. Reset your default update source to Windows Update (instead of Microsoft
Update):

Go to Microsoft Update website | Click on Change Settings in left pane |
Scroll to bottom of page | To Stop Using Microsoft Update | Disable
Microsoft Update software and let me use Windows Update only (check).

With Windows Update as your default, you will need to check in at Office
Update to keep your *other* Office applications fully patched but do not
install any Outlook updates:
http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/do...incatalog.aspx

QP
What are the differences between Windows Updates, Automatic Updates, and
Microsoft Updates?

While Windows Update provides you with updates specifically for Windows,
Microsoft Update expands the service to download and install updates for
other Microsoft software, such as Microsoft Office and Windows Live.
Automatic updating is a feature that allows you to set your PC to
automatically download and install updates using either service, making it
easy and convenient for you to keep your Windows PC current.
/QP
Source: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/dow...pdate/FAQ.mspx

PS: Yes, MS is fully aware of this behavior.
--
~Robear Dyer (PA Bear)
MS MVP-IE, Mail, Security, Windows Client - since 2002


David W. wrote:
I use OE with WinXP.
My PC is "on" 24/7 to receive email
My PC is scheduled to receive MS upgrades at 3:00 AM

Occasionally when I wake up, my PC has been reset to Office Outlook. I
must go to Internet Options and reset, etc.

Why does this happen??
How do I stop it.