How to Configure Microsoft Word to Always Open Email Attachments in Reading View on Windows
Microsoft Word comes with a lot of security features that protect your computer from malicious files. One of these options allows you to open all email attachments in Word’s reading view by default.
If you want an extra layer of protection against email attachments, there are several ways to always open attached Word documents in reading view on Windows. Let’s go over them one by one.
1. How to Change Microsoft Word Startup Settings to Always Open Email Attachments in Reading View
You can modify Word’s startup settings to specify how your documents are handled. From there, you can set Word to open all email attachments in reading mode by default. Here’s how:
Once you complete the above steps, Word will open email attachments in reading view by default.
2. How to Change the Local Group Policy to Open Email Attachments in Reading View in Microsoft Word
Another way to configure Word to open email attachments in reading view is to use the Group Policy Editor. It’s worth noting that you can only access the Group Policy Editor if you’re running the Professional, Education, or Enterprise edition of Windows. If you’re on Windows Home, be sure to check outhow to access the Local Group Policy Editor on Windows Homebefore continuing.
3. How to Tweak the Windows Registry to Open Email Attachments in Reading View in Microsoft Word
The Registry Editor in Windows stores important settings for Windows and its apps. If you’re comfortable editing registry files, you can also use the following method to configure Word to open email attachments in reading view.
Since modifying registry files is risky, you should proceed with caution. Also, make sure you back up all the registry files first. If you need help, refer to our guide onhow to back up and restore the Windows registryand follow the steps outlined there.
Once you’ve done that, here’s what you need to configure Word to open email attachments in reading view.
Restart your PC for the changes to take effect. Following that, Word will open all your email attachments in reading view.
Opening Email Attachments in Microsoft Word’s Reading View
Email remains a prominent attack vector for hackers and cybercriminals. Configuring Microsoft Word to open email attachments in reading view is just one of many methods for avoiding malware. Another option is to check suspicious files for malware before opening them.
Accidentally downloaded a file you suspect might be a virus? Or what if you think a link goes to a malicious site? Here’s what to do.
Who asked for these upgrades?
It saves me hours and keeps my sanity intact.
Now, I actually finish the books I start.
Your phone’s camera app doesn’t show this, so it’s easy to miss.
Lose your laptop without this feature, and you’ll wish you had turned it on.
