How to Add Hotmail to Windows Live Mail: A Comprehensive Guide
Windows Live Mail is a popular email client that allows users to manage multiple email accounts in one place. If you’re a Hotmail (now Outlook.com) user, adding your account to Windows Live Mail can streamline your email management and provide offline access to your messages. However, the setup process can be tricky if you’re not familiar with the steps.
In this tutorial, we are going to show you how to convert Hotmail to Windows Live Mail, possible issues that might occur, and the solutions for the easy installation process. Whether you are a new user or a professional, this guide will guide you through every step of the way.
Why Convert Hotmail to Windows Live Mail?
There are several benefits to adding your Hotmail account to WLM:
- Centralized Email Management: Manage multiple email accounts in one interface.
- Offline Access: Read and compose emails without an internet connection.
- Enhanced Features: Use Windows Live Mail’s calendar, contacts, and task management tools.
- Improved Organization: By having your Hotmail data in Windows Live Mail, you can easily categorize your emails for a better organization.
- Backup and Security: It is a great way to backup your important Hotmail emails. As you can avoid any accidental data.
How to Add Hotmail to Windows Live Mail?
To make the process easier, we divided the manual process into six steps. So, properly follow them without making any mistakes.
Step 1 Download and Install or Log in to Windows Live Mail
- If Windows Live Mail is not installed on your computer. Download it from the Microsoft official site.
- Open the application on your computer following the instructions.
Step 2. Log In to WLM
- Open Windows Live Mail from the desktop or Start menu on your computer.
- When this is the first time you’re opening the application, you’ll be asked to add an email account.
Step 3. Add Your Hotmail Account
- Click on Add an email account in the wizard setup.
- Now, enter your Hotmail email address and password in their respective fields and click Next.
Step 4. Account Settings Configuration
- WLM will auto-detect all the server settings for Hotmail. Make sure the following settings are correct.
- Account Type: IMAP
- Incoming Mail Server: imap-mail.outlook.com
- Outgoing Mail Server: smtp-mail.outlook.com
- Port Numbers: Incoming (993), Outgoing (587)
- Check the box for Require a secure connection (SSL) for both incoming and outgoing servers.
- Click Next to continue.
Step 5. Complete the Setup Procedure
- Once, you have given all the necessary details and start the configuration process. Test it to see if the connection is set or not.
- Lastly, click on the Finish button to complete the procedure.
Step 6. Move your Hotmail Emails in Windows Live Mail
- Now, your account is ready, start moving your Hotmail emails into the WLM account.
- After that, open the same account to see your Hotmail inbox, sent items, and other folders in the program.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Although we explained the process in clear steps, there are chances of facing issues during the procedure. Below are some of the common and their solutions which are used to tackle the problems.
- Wrong Server Settings – Sometimes users enter incorrect information in haste. As a result, your account will not be connected. So, make sure that you properly write down the correct input of IMAP and SMTP server.
- Authentication Failure – Double-check your email address and password for correctness. If you’ve enabled two-factor authentication (2FA) on your Hotmail account, generate an app password and use it instead of your regular password.
- Syncing Issues – During the process, disturbance in internet connection can also cause the syncing issues. Thus, ensure internet connection is stable during the process.
- Outdated Software – An outdated Windows Live Mail can also cause you many problems, so it is advisable to regularly update your software.
Best Way to Add Hotmail to Windows Live Mail
If you’re looking to back up or migrate your Hotmail emails, exporting them to a PST file is a reliable solution. While manual methods exist, they can be time-consuming and prone to errors. For a more efficient and hassle-free experience, consider using a professional tool like Corbett Hotmail Backup Wizard.
This tool simplifies the process of exporting Hotmail emails to PST format with advanced features such as:
- Bulk Export-Export multiple folders or accounts with one click
- Advanced Filters-More selective means of exporting using date, subject, or the sender.
- High Speed-Process larger volumes of data
- Data Integrity-Assure exportation of all your emails and prevent loss or damage.
Using an individual tool saves so much time in the long run, and not to mention its secure and effective way of data handling.
Conclusion
Adding Hotmail to Windows Live Mail is a great way to centralize your email management and enjoy offline access to your messages. While the process is relatively simple, it’s important to ensure the correct server settings and troubleshoot any issues that may arise.
You can integrate your Hotmail account into WLM with ease using this guide and enjoy the services it has to offer. In case of difficulties, check out the troubleshooting tips or opt for a newer alternative for an email experience with a more current touch. To those wanting to backup their Hotmail or migrate their emails, the service of Corbett Hotmail Backup Wizard is quite handy. Begin streamlining your email management today!