Setting default email program - can not access registry

I am the admin for my computer.

I installed Netscape 7.2 on my factory intalled Windows 7 Home (with latest updates downloaded) computer.
Netscape is in the Programs (x86) folder

I can run Netscape.
When I want to make it my default email program is when I have a problem.
I tried IE8->Internet Options -> Programs ->Internet Programs, Set Programs.
When I select 'Set your default programs' Netscape is not listed to select.

So then i select 'Set program access and computer defaults'
I go to 'Choose a default e-mail program' and I click the Netscape Mail radio button.
I get a popup with:
"Netscape 7.2 Mail could not be set as the default mail application because a registry key could not be updated. Verify with your system administrator that you have write access to your system registry, and then try again."

I have been able to update other registry keys via regedit.

I am at a loss and I really want to be able to use mailto when on the internet.

Thank you.

same problem. i'm thinking of trying Sea Monkey, which is a Mozilla email reader and might be more Windows 7 compatible.

I'm not sure about SeaMonkey, but Netscape 7.2 is very old...practically ancient.

Why not go with Firefox instead? For email, Thunderbird is an excellent choice.

Because, Many of us PREFER to use what we are familiar with and have tons of mail saved to. It worked fine in every other OS until now.

sabbyblue said:

...Verify with your system administrator that you have write access to your system registry, and then try again."
I have been able to update other registry keys via regedit...

Right-click the registry key you want to change and select "Permissions..." If the administrators don't have full control you may be able to add it. (You may have to use the advanced button to make yourself the "owner".)

Click on the Start Button

Type "default" in the “Search Programs & Folders”

Choose the last option “Set program access and computer defaults”

Choose “Custom”

Choose “Netscape Mail” as the default email program

VOILA !!! Netscape 7.2 is your default email program

Thanks rdhodi. The problem was that Netscape 7.2 was not showing in the list of programs.

I'm surprised - I've reformatted / changed my OS Hard disk a number of times (including in XP, Vista and 7) and
installed Netscape 7.2 again and again but this fix does not fail me --

I'll reply - this time with photos

Click on the Start Button

Type default in the “Search Programs & Folders”


And press "OK"


Hopefully Netscape 7.2 should have been installed as your default program

I'm surprised -- I've reformatted my systems over the years with several OS's (XP, Vista, 7) but this quickfix works everytime



I'll reply - this time with screen shots:-


See the attached "How to Set Netscape 7.2 as the default email program".doc file.


Hopefully it should work.