For many people in Africa, a Hotmail (now Outlook.com) account is more than just an email address.
It’s the key to job applications, online banking, social media, and even important government or school communications.
Losing access to your Hotmail account can feel stressful 😞, but don’t worry—there are several ways to get your account back.
In this complete guide, we’ll show you how to recover your Hotmail password, with clear steps tailored for users in Africa where internet connectivity may not always be stable or fast.
Step 1: Go to the Official Microsoft Account Recovery Page 🌐
First, open your browser on your mobile phone, tablet, or computer and visit the official Microsoft password reset page:
🔗 Link: https://account.live.com/password/reset
This is the official page for recovering any Microsoft account, including Hotmail, Outlook, Live, and MSN emails.
👉 On the page, you’ll be asked:
“Why are you having trouble signing in?”
Select: “I forgot my password”
Then, click Next.
Step 2: Enter Your Hotmail Email Address ✉️
On the next screen:
✔️ Type your full Hotmail email address (example: [email protected]).
✔️ Complete the CAPTCHA security code to prove you’re not a robot 🤖.
✔️ Click Next.
Step 3: Choose How You Want to Receive the Security Code ✅
Microsoft will now ask where to send your security code.
Here are the available options:
📱 Option 1: SMS (Text Message)
If you added a mobile number during your Hotmail account setup:
✔️ Microsoft will send a code via SMS.
✔️ Enter the code on the recovery page.
✔️ You’ll then be able to reset your password.
Tip for Africa: Make sure your phone has network coverage and enough airtime to receive international SMS, especially if your Hotmail account is linked to a foreign phone number.
📧 Option 2: Alternate Email
If you linked another email account (like Gmail or Yahoo):
✔️ Microsoft will send the code there.
✔️ Check your inbox or spam folder for the verification email.
✔️ Enter the code on the Microsoft page.
🛑 Option 3: “I don’t have any of these”
If you don’t have access to your recovery phone or email:
✔️ Click on: “I don’t have any of these”
✔️ Microsoft will guide you to fill out an account recovery form.
Important:
Be as accurate as possible when answering questions like:
- Previous passwords you used
- Approximate account creation date
- Frequently emailed contacts
- Subjects of recent emails you sent
This helps Microsoft confirm you’re the real owner.
Step 4: Create a New Password 🔐
Once you’ve successfully verified your identity:
✔️ You’ll be prompted to enter a new password.
👉 Tips for a strong password:
✅ Minimum 8 characters
✅ Mix uppercase and lowercase letters
✅ Include numbers and special characters (example: Africa@2025!)
After choosing your new password, click Next and your Hotmail account will be accessible again 🎉.
Step 5: Strengthen Your Account Security 🛡️
To avoid losing access again, here’s what you should do immediately after recovering your Hotmail account:
✔️ Add a recovery phone number
✔️ Add a recovery email address
✔️ Enable two-step verification (Microsoft will send a code every time you log in from a new device)
You can manage all these settings at:
https://account.microsoft.com/security
Extra Tips for African Users 🌍
Because many people in Africa rely on mobile data and public internet points, here are some additional tips:
✔️ Always log out from public computers (like in internet cafés)
✔️ Don’t save your password on shared devices
✔️ Write down your recovery information and keep it somewhere safe
✔️ Check your spam folder for verification emails if you don’t see them in your inbox
What If Recovery Doesn’t Work? ❌
If you’ve tried everything and still can’t access your Hotmail account:
👉 Wait 24 hours and try again from a different device or location.
👉 If your answers don’t match Microsoft’s records, your request may be denied.
👉 As a last resort, consider creating a new Outlook.com email.
Remember: Always keep your new account updated with recovery options to avoid future problems.
Final Words ✨
Losing access to your Hotmail can feel frustrating, especially in areas with limited internet resources. But with patience and by following the right steps, most users in Africa can successfully recover their accounts.
✅ Good luck with your Hotmail recovery!
✅ For Gmail recovery steps, check our other article in this series.