Concerned about security and virus threats many people do not like the preview pane option in Microsoft Outlook®.

To hide the preview pane in Outlook 2003, right click on “arranged by date”, then click on “Custom”, “Other settings”. Under the "reading pane" option, click the “Off” option button. To turn back on follow the above steps but click “Right” or “Bottom”.

In Outlook Express, Click on “View”, then “Layout”. Un-check “Show preview pane”.

This will hide the preview pane in Outlook and allow you to see who mail is from, before opening any messages.