Why accounts are locked and disabled. Microsoft accounts are usually locked if the account holder has violated our Microsoft Services Agreement.Here are some common reasons why accounts are locked, though not all account locks occur for these reasons:

Tip: If you're a Microsoft 365 Family or Personal subscriber you get Microsoft Defender, our advanced security software for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, as part of your subscription.Learn more at Getting started with Microsoft Defender.

If you purchase DLC and add-ons for a game that later leaves the catalog, your DLC and add-ons will not be removed. However, to continue playing the DLC and add-ons, you’ll need to purchase a digital copy of the game from the Xbox app for Windows or the Microsoft Store, play from a disc, or obtain another form of entitlement to continue playing the game

In order to obtain the details of your reward, please go to your Order History and scan through the list of your orders. Look for the reward in question and at the far-right, click the Order Details button to get your redemption code or link.

IMAP and POP are two methods to access email. IMAP is the recommended method when you need to check your emails from several different devices, such as a phone, laptop, and tablet.

To activate Windows 10 using an internet connection: As Windows 10 will automatically activate if you are connected to the internet, you can confirm your activation status by selecting Start > Settings > Update & Security > Activation and looking under Windows.. If online activation fails, first try the activation troubleshooting in Activate Windows 10.

An upgrade moves your PC from a previous version of Windows—such as Windows 7 or Windows 8.1—to Windows 10. An upgrade can take place on your existing device, though Microsoft recommends using Windows 10 on a new PC to take advantage of the latest features and security improvements.

Need help with an Xbox console, an Xbox game, or Xbox network? Find out how to get in touch with us.

Get steps for connecting a Miracast wireless display. If pressing the Connect button in the action center doesn't find your device, try the troubleshooting steps provided at Fix connections to Miracast wireless displays.

Learn how to change settings to enable Secure Boot if you are not able to upgrade to Windows 11 because your PC is not currently Secure Boot capable.