How to sign in to Hotmail

Sign in to Hotmail or Outlook.com

Hotmail is now Outlook.com

To sign in to Hotmail, you'll need your Microsoft account username and password. 

Sign in

Screenshot of the Outlook web app home screen

Tips: 

  • While signing in, select Yes at the "Stay signed in?" prompt if you want to go straight to your mailbox next time (not recommended for shared computers). Alternatively, check the "Don't show this again" box and select No to be prompted for your password each time.

  • If you can't sign in, or have forgotten your username or password, use our sign-in troubleshooter.

  • If you're looking to open a new account, you can create one here.

Your browser does not support video. Install Microsoft Silverlight, Adobe Flash Player, or Internet Explorer 9.

Can't sign in to Hotmail or Outlook.com?

Notes: 

  • Your Hotmail or Outlook.com password is the same as your Microsoft Account password.

  • If you can you sign in but are having problems with Outlook.com, check the service status. If the status isn't green, wait until the service is running normally and try again.

  • Microsoft always keeps an eye out for unusual sign-in activity, just in case someone else is trying to get into your account. If you're travelling to a new place or using a new device, we might ask you to confirm that it really is you.

If you're unable to sign in, try the sign-in troubleshooter tool below, or check the other solutions listed.

Start troubleshooter  

Your account might be temporarily blocked because we noticed some unusual sign-in activity. If your account is blocked, see Unblock my Outlook.com account.

Microsoft always keeps an eye out for unusual sign-in activity, just in case someone else is trying to get into your account. If you're travelling to a new place or using a new device, we might ask you to confirm that it really is you.

Read How to access Outlook.com when traveling for more information.

Hotmail is now Outlook.com. To sign in to your Hotmail account, go to www.outlook.com and select Sign in.

If you have forgotten your username or password, use our sign-in troubleshooter, but note that if you haven't signed in to your account for more than 2 years, your account may have been deleted.

See Also

Getting started with the new Outlook for Windows

Manage email accounts in Outlook.com

Unblock my Outlook.com account

Supported browsers for Outlook on the web and Outlook.com

If you sign in with a work or school account, read How to sign in to Outlook on the web

Still need help?

Get help with Outlook.com

To get support in Outlook.com, click here or select Help on the menu bar and enter your query. If the self-help doesn't solve your problem, scroll down to Still need help? and select Yes.

To contact us in Outlook.com, you'll need to sign in. If you can't sign in, click here

For other help with your Microsoft account and subscriptions, visit Account & Billing Help.

Get Help app icon

To get help and troubleshoot other Microsoft products and services, enter your problem here

Post questions, follow discussions and share your knowledge in the Outlook.com Community.

Need more help?

Want more options?

Explore subscription benefits, browse training courses, learn how to secure your device, and more.

Communities help you ask and answer questions, give feedback, and hear from experts with rich knowledge.