i saved (just in one folder put on a CDRW) OE6 dbx files (taking care to use a different filename for inbox, sent items, etc.), wiped the hard drive, reinstalled XP pro. moved the dbx file folder back to C drive, in the place where the new ones are in the resintalled OE6. when i open oe6, they do not appear. i took all the files and put them back in a separate folder (like i had saved them in at first) and tried import...messages...(filename), get error that there are no files in the folder or they are in use. all files properties are the same. i know there must be content there because the file sizes are different, as would be expected, as they were originally. going crazy with this seemingly simple operation. microsoft help, gateway working on it has trouble understanding.

My advice 1) Put dbx files from the CD in some convenient location like "C:\Documents and Settings\UserName\Email" 2) The files are probably marked "Read Only" since they were on a CD. (Right-clicking the folder, choosing properties should let you change this attribute) 3) Open Outlook Express, Tools, Options, Maintenance, Store Folder. Change the path to the location in #1.