Symantec / Eudora 6.x Conflict

Note: the following instructions are for Windows users running Eudora 6.x.

Due to the recent onset of virus messages, Symantec AntiVirus (Norton) scanning software has created some conflicts with Eudora email client. The usual error message sequence is a virus warning followed by a possible stall in email message delivery.

The problem is caused by the antivirus program scanning the “spool folder” instead of only scanning the downloaded messages. The fix is simple: exclude the spool folder from the virus scan.

Note: the email messages will still be scanned (and viruses detected) after the messages have been downloaded from the email server.

To exclude the spool folder from the virus scan:

1. Open the Symantec AntiVirus program.

2. Click on Configure.

3. Click on File System Realtime Protection.

4. In the Options box, check the box for Exclude selected files or folders.

5. When the Exclusion button becomes available, press that button.

6. In the next box, click the Files/Folders button.

7. In the Select Items box, navigate to the Spool folder** and place a check mark next to it.

8. Click OK to exit the Select Items dialogue box.

9. Click OK to exit the Exclusions dialogue box.

10. Click OK to exit the File System Realtime Protection dialogue box.

11. Click on Exit to exit the Symantec Antivirus program box.

**Navigating to the Spool folder

The spool folder will be in different locations for different users and different versions of Eudora. The spool folder for Eudora 6.x can typically be found under the C:\mail directory. However, if you are using a shared computer, or some WindowsXP machines, your copy of Eudora may be located under the user’s “settings and documents” subdirectory.

If you cannot easily navigate to the Spool folder, try this:

1. From the Start button, select Search followed by Files or folders.

2. In the Search for Files or Folders named box, type Spool.

3. When the folder spool is shown, click on that icon.

   Note: There might be other files named or containing the word spool, this will be a folder and have a folder icon.

4. The path will be displayed at the top. Use this information in Step 6 above.

This fix will work for most individuals. If you are still having trouble with one message, you can delete that message with our server utility. This can be found at: https://popsickle.css.psu.edu/listpop/popsickle.html. A word of caution - messages deleted using this server utility can not be restored.

We also encourage you to upgrade to Eudora version 6.0.3. This is available for free at: http://www.eudora.com/download/.

If you have questions, please contact the ITS Help Desks at helpdesk@psu.edu.