I’ve just reinstalled Windows XP for the umpteenth time. Every time I do this, I end up having to scour the Internet looking for the trick to make GMail the default mail client in Firefox. So, mainly for my benefit, this is how it’s done!
3 Steps to Heaven
This time around I needed the following Three steps to get things working properly.
Step 1
In the Firefox address bar type
about:config
You will see a message warning that you might void your warranty if you continue. Ignore it!
When you see the box below:
Copy and paste the following text into the “Filter” field:
gecko.handlerService.allowRegisterFromDifferentHost;
Make sure it says True in the Value column. If not, double click the text and it will change.
Step 2
Back up to the “Filter” field. This time copy and paste:
network.protocol-handler.external.mailto
This should be set to True as well.
Step 3
Finally, open up your GMail Inbox. With your inbox open, type the following text into your address bar depending on the type of account you are using:
For GMail Users:
javascript:window.navigator.registerProtocolHandler("mailto","https://mail.google.com/mail/?extsrc=mailto&url=%s","GMail"
For Google Apps (using your own domain):
javascript:window.navigator.registerProtocolHandler("mailto","https://mail.google.com/a/example.com/mail/?extsrc=mailto&url=%s","GMail")
YOU MUST REMEBER TO CHANGE example.com TO YOUR OWN DOMAIN!
After hitting “Enter”, you will be asked if your sure. Click Yes and you’re done!!
Step 4
OK I lied, but only a little bit!
The next time you click on a mailto: link, you will be offered a choice of mail handler. Click on the GMail Envelope and make sure the box is ticked if you want this to be you default email client.
References
- Lifehacker:
- Google Apps Support Forum:
Much needed tip!
I will check it out and if ok with you also mention it in our blog http://www.romneya.com/blog/
Philippe Creytens
.-= Philippe Creytens´s last blog ..Adding graphics to email signatures: Microsoft BPOS 1 – Google Apps 0 =-.