Create a Microsoft account

Windows Phone, Xbox LIVE, Outlook.com or SkyDrive - a Microsoft account is required for these services. You can then access all of these services with just one account. A Microsoft account is particularly recommended for the use of Windows 8 and 10, so that you can also use all the features of the Microsoft operating system.

Create a Microsoft account for Outlook, Skydrive, Xbox Live and Windows Phone

If you already have a Windows Live ID or an Xbox Live ID, you also have a Microsoft account. If you don’t use any of these services yet, learn how to create a Microsoft account here:

1. Open the following Microsoft website and click the "Create a Free Microsoft Account" link below.
2. Now enter all the required data. This includes name, date of birth and gender.
3. Either use your own email address or create a new one with the extension @ outlook.com, @ hotmail.de or @ hotmail.com.
4. Enter the captcha at the bottom and click on the "Create account" button.
5. Your Microsoft account will now be created. You now have access to all available Microsoft services.

In the next practical tip, we will show you how to start Windows 10 without a login.