internet explorer 5.5

I can't seem to get my IE 5.5 to open up files, i.e. jpegs in a maximized window!! It opens them in a non-maximized window and then I have to maximize it; it will remember a particular file and then maximize it if I open that specific file again but if I go to open a new jpeg, it opens it up non-maximized.

I've tried the registry solution I read about, stretching the corners and closing recommendation, etc. I'm about to give up! Ist there anyone out there that has same problem and has solved it??

 

I use the freeware Irfanview to manage and view my graphics (www.irfanview.com). It's really slick.

Upgrading to IE 6 before using Irfanview may make it not open in max window. That is, get the settings before upgrading. But hitting the enter key after open will give a view to full screen.

My Irfanview opens max hitting the graphic.

 

I don't plan on upgrading to IE6 anytime soon; do you see any real advantage in using an image viewer vs. just using IE?
I've never used the viewer you are referring to.