as you can see from this old article they have had issues with compatibility with the 2 from the beginning Microsoft Resolves Windows Live Mail, IE8 Conflict however is was supposed to be resolved. Have you done all of the IE8 updates and have the latest version of it? Would also suggest you try it with Ie blocking all of the add ons to see if one may cause a conflict To do this click Start -> All Programs -> Accessories -> System Tools -> Internet Explorer (No Add-ons).

the very best way is to do exactly what you are doing and ask, that way you can get replies from those who have tried it and like it also if there were any problems or glitches, you can also check other support forums for problems listed with a specific update. I do that prior to doing any of my windows updates, I check the forums for comments and if there are problems I wait till I know they have been resolved. As far as IE8 goes there are some conflict problems with certain programs which is why it is a very good idea to read up on it and if you are running those programs be prepared prior to install. I go to google and google IE8 Conflicts and find a wealth of info. Since every system is different there never is a guarantee that any one program will work the same way it does on any other system, so we do have to take chances sometimes and just dive in with fingers crossed.

See the link please, you simply uninstall IE8 and the computer automatically reverts to IE7.... Here is a link that might be useful: uninstall IE8

Going from IE6 to IE8 is really no big deal though you will have to learn some new services. Just be patient and enjoy the learning experience. As an extra bonus IE8 is also more secure. Inevitably you would have to upgrade down the road so why not do it now? As an alternative, K's suggestion in regards to Firefox is a good one which I totally support. DA