How to Create a Hotmail/Outlook Account
Whether you want a new @hotmail.com address or an @outlook.com account, the signup process is the same — here's the complete walkthrough for desktop and mobile, plus tips for choosing a username that won't be taken.
To create a Hotmail/Outlook account, go to outlook.com or signup.live.com, click "Create free account," choose your email address ending in @hotmail.com, @outlook.com, @live.com, or @msn.com, set a password, and complete the verification steps (name, birth date, and a phone or email for security).
Before You Start: What You'll Need
- A device with internet access
- A unique username idea
- A strong password
- Your birth date
- A phone number or alternate email (recommended for recovery)
Creating a Hotmail/Outlook account also creates a Microsoft account, which gives you access to OneDrive, Microsoft 365 web apps, Skype, and Xbox Live using the same login.
How to Create a Hotmail/Outlook Account (Step-by-Step)
Desktop / Web Browser
- Go to outlook.com or signup.live.comOpen your browser and navigate to either address.
- Click "Create free account"This button is usually on the sign-in page.
- Choose your email addressType your desired username, then select a domain ending: @outlook.com, @hotmail.com, @live.com, or @msn.com.
- Create a passwordUse a strong, unique password — at least 8 characters with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Enter your nameFirst and last name as you'd like them to appear.
- Enter your birth dateMicrosoft uses this to apply age-appropriate settings and verify eligibility.
- Complete the "prove you're not a robot" verificationThis may be a puzzle, image selection, or similar CAPTCHA-style check.
- Your inbox is createdYou'll be taken to your new Outlook.com inbox, ready to use.
Creating an Account on Mobile (iPhone & Android)
- Download the Outlook appAvailable on the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play (Android).
- Open the app and tap "Create account"This option appears on the welcome/sign-in screen.
- Follow the same steps as desktopChoose your email address, password, name, and birth date.
- Complete verificationSame CAPTCHA-style check as on desktop.
For more mobile-specific tips, see: How to Create a Hotmail Account on Mobile
Choosing Your Email Address
With over a billion existing Outlook/Hotmail addresses, common usernames (especially short names) are often already taken. A few strategies that work well:
| Strategy | Example |
|---|---|
| Add numbers | johnsmith2026@outlook.com |
| Add a middle initial | john.r.smith@outlook.com |
| Use a different domain ending | johnsmith@live.com (if @outlook.com is taken) |
| Add a profession/interest | johnsmithphotography@outlook.com |
| Combine words differently | smith.john.official@outlook.com |
If you keep hitting "this username is unavailable," see our dedicated guide: Fix 'Username Unavailable' During Signup
@outlook.com vs @hotmail.com vs @live.com vs @msn.com: Does It Matter?
Functionally, no — all four domains use the same inbox, the same Microsoft account system, and the same features. The choice is purely aesthetic/personal preference:
| Domain | Perception | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| @outlook.com | Modern, most commonly used for new signups | Most common names taken |
| @hotmail.com | Classic, widely recognized | Heavily saturated — short names rarely available |
| @live.com | Less common, slightly more availability | Better odds for common names |
| @msn.com | Least commonly chosen for new accounts | Often the best odds for common names |
If you want a specific username and @outlook.com/@hotmail.com are taken, try @live.com or @msn.com — the address still functions identically.
Personal vs. Business Account: Which Should You Create?
The signup flow described above creates a personal Microsoft account, suitable for individual use. If you're setting up email for a business or organization, you may want a Microsoft 365 (Outlook for business) account instead, which offers custom domains, admin controls, and team collaboration features.
For details on the business signup process, see: How to Create a Business Outlook/Microsoft 365 Account
After Signup: Recommended Next Steps
- Add a recovery phone or emailGo to account.microsoft.com → Security → Add recovery info. This makes password resets much easier later.
- Set up two-factor authenticationAdds a critical security layer — see our Hotmail Login guide for setup steps.
- Customize your inboxSet up folders, signatures, and a profile photo.
- Import contacts (optional)If migrating from another email provider, use the import tool under Settings → Sync email.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hotmail still available for new accounts in 2026?
Yes. While the "Hotmail" brand was retired in favor of Outlook.com in 2013, you can still create new accounts ending in @hotmail.com, alongside @outlook.com, @live.com, and @msn.com — all functionally identical.
Can I create a Hotmail account without a phone number?
Yes. A phone number is recommended for account recovery but not strictly required during initial signup — you can use an alternate email for recovery instead, or add a phone number later.
What's the difference between @hotmail.com and @outlook.com?
There's no functional difference — both are part of the same Outlook.com email system with identical features, storage, and interface. The only difference is which domain appears after the @ symbol in your address.
Do I need to verify my identity to create a Hotmail account?
Basic signup only requires a CAPTCHA-style "prove you're not a robot" check, your name, and birth date. Full identity verification (like ID upload) is generally only required later if your account is flagged for security review.
Can I create multiple Hotmail accounts?
Yes, Microsoft allows multiple personal accounts. However, each typically needs a unique recovery phone/email, and using the same phone number for many accounts may trigger additional verification steps.
What's the minimum age to create a Hotmail/Microsoft account?
Microsoft requires users to meet the "age of digital consent" in their country, which is typically 13-16 depending on local regulations. Younger users can have an account managed by a parent through Microsoft Family Safety.