Windows Live: Change password - how it works

If you forgot the password for your Windows Live ID or your account was hacked, you can simply change the password. We'll show you how it's done.

Windows Live: Change password for security reasons

These instructions assume that you can still register. If you forgot your password or your account was hacked, read on in the second paragraph.

1. Open the Windows Live website and log in with your email address and password.
2. Under the "Security and data protection" category you will now find the "Change password and more" option.
3. Then click on the "Change password" link under "Password".
4. Enter your current password and confirm the new one twice.
5. The new password is set using the "Save" button. If you want to be on the safe side, you can activate the option "I want to renew my password every 72 days".

Windows Live: Change password without login

1. Open the following Microsoft website to reset your password.
2. Select the "I forgot my password" option or if I suspect "I think someone else is using my Microsoft account".
3. In the next step, enter your email address and the captcha shown.
4. In order to confirm your identity, have a link sent to the alternative address previously set up by email. You can also choose to answer the security questions.
5. You can then change your password.

In the next practical tip, we will show you how to choose a secure password.