If you can't sign in to your Outlook.com, Hotmail, Live, or MSN email account, or you're not sure how to sign in or sign out, here are some solutions.

You can use installation media (a USB flash drive or DVD) to install a new copy of Windows, perform a clean installation, or reinstall Windows. To create installation media, go to the software download website, where you'll find step-by-step instructions.

A BitLocker recovery key is needed when BitLocker can’t automatically unlock an encrypted drive in Windows. This key, which is a 48-digit number, is used to regain access to the drive. You might be prompted for the BitLocker recovery key during startup, due to a security risk or hardware change:

Having trouble connecting to your email from Outlook on your desktop? Follow these steps to let Outlook diagnose and fix errors in your Outlook mail profile that might be causing the issue.

Use the Quick Assist web app to get help with your computer directly from Microsoft support agents. The app connects your computer with the Microsoft support agent’s computer using a remote connection.

Some Office 2019, Office 2016, and Office 2013 products come with a product key. If yours did, before installing Microsoft 365 for the first time, sign in with an existing or new Microsoft account and enter your product key at office.com/setup. Redeeming your key is what links your account with Microsoft 365 so you only have to do this once.

If you're trying to add your Outlook.com account to Outlook or another mail app, you might need the POP, IMAP, or SMTP settings. You can find them below or by viewing them in your Outlook.com settings.

For Microsoft 365 operated by 21 Vianet go to login.partner.microsoftonline.cn. For Microsoft 365 Germany go to portal.office.de. This completes the download of Microsoft 365 to your device. To complete the installation, follow the prompts in the "Install Microsoft 365" section below.

You can start a scan for malware any time you like. Note: Microsoft Defender currently offers anti-malware on Windows, Android, and macOS. From the Microsoft Defender dashboard. If you want a deeper scan, instead of selecting Quick scan in step 3, select Scan options and choose the type of scan you want.

If you get an email about unusual activity on your Microsoft account, or if you’re worried that someone else might have used your account, go to the Recent activity page. You’ll see when your Microsoft account was signed in during the last 30 days, along with any device or app-specific info.