Why Is Hotmail Not Working and How to Fix the Problem?

Hotmail is, without a doubt, one of the most used email services in modern times. However, you cannot always expect it to give you an error-free performance. Issues such as Hotmail not working is extremely common. It is a very broad problem that includes many smaller issues. Some users may find themselves unable to send/receive emails, while others may experience loading issues. Users have also reported seeing an unwanted error in their Hotmail. Irrespective of how you are facing it, there are various ways to troubleshoot it. In this article, you’ll gain a greater insight into how you can fix it.

Why Is Hotmail Not Working?

The reason why your Hotmail isn’t functioning as it ought to can be different from another’s. Here is a list of the common causes that lead to this problem.

Issues with network connectivity.
Wrong configurations of your Outlook account.
You are employing an outdated version of Outlook.
Typing wrong credentials can also lead to this issue.
The server of Hotmail is down.
If you are using Hotmail on a mobile device, it’s possible that it may be running low on storage.
Your account is compromised or hacked.
Installed security software is interfering with Outlook’s functioning.
There are more than the usual amount of cache and cookies on your browser or app.

Troubleshoot Hotmail Not Working Problem on Your System

As you can see, there’s an endless list of causes for this issue. In the succeeding section, you will find workarounds to resolve all of them.

Inspect the Network Connection

In order for Outlook to work properly, you must have a stable internet connection. In its absence, you will inevitably face this problem. See if other websites are opening properly in your browser. If they aren’t, it means you need to fix the internet connection.

If you are linked to Wi-Fi but still are without internet access, you need to fix the internet signal. Check for these things.

Restart your router, modem, and computer.
Make sure that there are not any loose wires or cables.
Change the position of your router. Place it somewhere high so it can offer more coverage.

Correct the Server Settings

You may complain that your Hotmail is not working in case of the wrong mail server settings. These settings are responsible for the proper sending and receiving of emails. Make sure that your settings are as given here:

IMAP

1. Outlook.office365.com is the Server name.
2. 993 is the Port number.
3. SSL/TLS is the Encryption

POP

1. Outlook.office365.com is the Server name.
2. 587 is the Port number.
3. STARTTLS is the Encryption.

Update Your Outlook

Using an old Outlook version will prevent you from accessing your email. The new version can fix minor technical glitches that may be causing you to face problems in accessing your email. Here is the exact procedure to enable automatic updates in Outlook.

Launch the Outlook application and choose the ‘File‘ option.
Tap ‘Office Account‘ in the navigation pane.
Now, choose the ‘Update Options.’
In case you have disabled automatic updates, you’ll get the option to ‘Enable Updates.’
Tap’ Enable Updates.’ Now, your Outlook will be updated automatically. Check if this resolves the problem with your email’s working.

Find If the Hotmail Server is Down

When you find Hotmail not responding even after trying the troubleshooting above, it’s best to check its server status. Head to websites such as isitdownrightnow.com and downdetector.com to find the server status of Hotmail. These sites regularly update you regarding the Hotmail server.

If the server is down, you will need to wait until it starts working fine. If there’s no problem with the server, move on to the next troubleshooting technique.

Clear Cookies and Cache on the Browser and App

If the browser has excessive cache, you may encounter loading issues with your Hotmail. Similar is the case with the Hotmail app on your phone. So, it’s wise to clear the cache of the platform you are using to get rid of the issue.

Clear Cache of Your Browser

Launch your browser and tap ‘Menu.’ It’s present on the top-right part.
After that, tap ‘More Tools‘ followed by ‘Clear browsing data.’
Determine the time period for which you want the cache to be cleared and check the boxes.
Finally, tap ‘Clear Data‘ to finish this process.

Clear Cache of Your App

Head to your phone’s ‘Settings app.
Go down and click ‘Apps.’
You will see all the apps that are present on your device.
Find the ‘email‘ app where the Hotmail account is added and click it.
Now, click ‘Storage.’
Here, click the ‘Clear Cache button.
Confirm this action of yours.

Gain Access to Your Hotmail Account

Many users find that their Hotmail stopped working if they are unable to log in with their password. This can be because of two reasons. Either you are using the wrong password, or your account has been compromised. In such a scenario, you can gain access to your account through these steps.

Head to the login page of Microsoft (login.live.com)
Here, tap the ‘Forgot my password option. This option will redirect you to the page of password recovery.
Now click ‘Next.’
Enter the email ID of the Hotmail account you seek to recover.
Use the guidelines for entering the characters you see on your screen.
Tap ‘Next.’
On the next screen, you will find several methods to verify your identity and take charge of your account.
You may find a security code sent to your alternate email address.
Through this code, you can finally unlock your Hotmail account and start using it again.

Connect Through HTTPS

Another efficient means to bring back the proper functioning of your Hotmail is to connect using HTTPS. This process is quite straightforward.

Navigate to the website www.account.live.com.
You will see the ‘Connect with HTTPS‘ option.
Agree with it.
Now choose ‘Use HTTPS automatically.’
Now click ‘Save.’ Your Hotmail account will start working normally.

Tips to Fix Hotmail Not Working Issue on Your Mobile Device

Hotmail also malfunctions in iPhone or Android applications. Here are some tips for troubleshooting its working.

Double-check the account details you enter. If you are unsure about them, fill them out manually.
Now find out if your account is supported on the application. It’s possible to use an Outlook.com account that involves Microsoft 365, Live, or Hotmail in the app. If you have no understanding of the kind of email account you are using, confirm it with your email provider. You can also clear your doubt from Hotmail customer support.
If your account is added to the application but is not functioning, you need to look at the settings of the mail app. Remove your Hotmail account and after that, add it again. These steps will fix the glitch in the settings that are preventing your Hotmail account from functioning on your device.

Wrapping Up

This comprehensive guide will help you fix the Hotmail not working issue on your browser and phone. The troubleshooting is not very technical and can be carried out easily by an average user. However, if you need more assistance with this issue, it’s best to reach out to a professional email help.

Is Your Hotmail Not Working? – Use These Fixes