Understanding DBX Issues
Common Problems Opening DBX Files
Microsoft Outlook Express is Not Installed
Double-clicking your DBX file prompts the message "%%os%% Can't Open DBX File". If this is the case, it's usually due to the fact that you do not have Microsoft Outlook Express for %%os%% installed on your computer. The OS won't know what to do with your DBX file, so double-clicking to load the file doesn't work.
Tip: When you have another program installed that you know will open your DBX, you can select it from the other programs listed (see "Show Apps").
Microsoft Outlook Express Requires Update
In some cases, you might have a newer (or older) version of a Outlook Express E-mail Folder file that is unsupported by your installed application version. Installing the latest version of Microsoft Outlook Express from Microsoft Corporation is recommended. Most of the time your Outlook Express E-mail Folder file was created by a newer Microsoft Outlook Express than what you have installed.
Tip: Investigate your DBX file by right-clicking and selecting "Properties" to find clues on what version you need.
Regardless, most of the DBX file opening problems relate to not having the right version of Microsoft Outlook Express installed.
Other Causes of DBX File Opening Problems
Assuming you have the right Microsoft Outlook Express version installed, other problems can prevent you from opening DBX files. If you're still experiencing problems opening DBX files, there could be other computer problems. Additional factors include:
- DBX file type Registry entries are wrong
- Unintentional removal of the description of the DBX file inside the Windows Registry
- Corrupt install of Microsoft Outlook Express or other DBX-related program
- Something has caused file corruption of your DBX
- DBX file integrity has been compromised by malware
- Hardware related to DBXs has device driver corruption
- Windows cannot load your Outlook Express E-mail Folder file due to insufficient resources (eg. RAM)
Quiz: Which file extension is not a type of spreadsheet?
That's Correct!
An XES file is a type of Settings File, used to store program configuration details. Although it has "X" in the name, it is not a spreadsheet file.
Close, but not quite...
An XES file is a type of Settings File, used to store program configuration details. Although it has "X" in the name, it is not a spreadsheet file.
Poll: Which type of computing device you most often use to open files?