Start with the right service
An existing Hotmail address uses Microsoft account services. Keep the exact original address during sign-in; creating another Microsoft account with a similar name will not restore the old mailbox.
Configuration quick reference
| Reference | What to check |
|---|---|
| Connection and access | Hotmail consumer mail uses Outlook.com settings and OAuth2. IMAP: outlook.office365.com:993 SSL/TLS. SMTP: smtp-mail.outlook.com:587 STARTTLS. |
| Account authority | Use the original provider for identity verification, account recovery, eligibility and billing. |
Official reference: Microsoft email configuration. Check the provider’s current instructions before changing settings. Reviewed October 14, 2026.
Work through the problem
- Try the address through Microsoft’s official Outlook.com sign-in route.
- If Microsoft requests identity verification, use the recovery options it offers. Avoid repeated guesses that can trigger additional checks.
- When a mail application asks for the password repeatedly, update it and use Microsoft’s browser-based authorization.
- Check the Junk, Deleted and Archive folders before assuming messages have disappeared.
Keep a useful diagnostic record
Note the exact error, the application and version, and whether the same account works on the provider’s website. Record whether sending, receiving or sign-in fails. Remove private message content from screenshots before sharing them.
If you use POP or local folders, preserve those messages before removing an account. A new account configuration may not recover data stored only on the old device.
Choose your next step
For an app-only problem, compare authorization and settings with the official reference above. For an account restriction or failed identity check, continue with the original provider. Independent assistance cannot bypass these controls.
Related guides: IMAP, POP and SMTP · Password recovery · Email synchronization.