How to disable the back and forward mouse buttons in Windows 7?

I have a 5 button Microsoft mouse. I always press acidentally the navigation buttons, and I want to disable them without using the software that came with the mouse. Is it possible? (Without modifying the hardware?)

Solution 1:

You could try using AutoHotKey, but 5 button mice aren't always consistent. If yours IS, try:

XButton1::
XButton2::
Return

Which should disable both. You could give either functionality you actually find useful with the software, as well.

Solution 2:

What options do you have when you go to Control Panel > Mouse?

I haven't got Windows 7 so I can't double check, but if it's recognising the extra buttons you should have options to disable them on the dialog.