Windows Live Mail Install problem

Trying to get mom off of OE and I figured Windows Live Mail should be a step up -problem is: I download the download client (gee, why do I use Linux?) and it gets to 99% install and then hangs. -Google has revealed many Windows Live products have similar probs but offer no solution. Any of you cats have any ideas? -Thanks for your time,
fiver22.
Mom's PC specs:
OS: Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition SP3
CPU: Intel P4, 2400 MHz
MOBO: MSI MS-6524G
Chipset: SiS 650
RAM: 512Mb SDRAM
BIOS: Award Modular (10/04/02)
HDD: 40G Western Digital (WDC WD400EB-00CPF0)

Any chance this PC needs either "Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0: x86", or "Microsoft .NET Framework version 1.1" to run Windows Live Mail? -I wouldn't think so but what do I know...

(edit: removed old signature with old PC specs.)

 

My inability to defrag this machine properly is very much a separate issue. As for Thunderbird -I'm not an idiot: My Mom seems to be more comfortable with Microsoft products. If I were in search of a better email proggy for ME I would certainly seek out F/OSS but whose Mom cares about such stuff?
Any other thoughts would be appreciated.
We tried Thunderbird but Mom is more comfy with OE-style mail apps.
(I also thank you, MarkTrent, I just want a more detailed/helpfull reply)

(edit: old PC deets)