How to Change Microsoft Outlook Password (With or Without)

This guide shows you how to change your Microsoft Outlook password, whether you still know your current password or have forgotten it. You’ll learn the steps for changing it while signed in, and the recovery process when you can’t sign in, covering both the Outlook desktop app and the web version at outlook.com.

What You’ll Need

• Access to the email address you use to sign in to Outlook (this is often a Microsoft account).
• If you know your current password, you can change it directly from your account settings.
• If you’ve forgotten your password, you’ll need a recovery email address or phone number linked to your account.
• A web browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Safari) to access the Microsoft account security page.

Step-by-Step

If You Know Your Current Password

1. Go to the Microsoft account security page. Open your web browser and go to account.microsoft.com/security. Sign in with your Outlook email address and current password if prompted.
2. Select “Change my password.” On the security page, look for the password section. Click or tap on “Change my password.” You might be asked to verify your identity with a code sent to your recovery email or phone.
3. Enter your current password. In the “Current password” field, type the password you’re currently using.
4. Create a new password. Enter your new password in the “New password” field, then type it again in the “Confirm new password” field. Microsoft requires passwords to be at least 8 characters and include at least two of the following: uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
5. Save your changes. Click or tap “Next” or “Save.” You’ll see a confirmation that your password was changed. The next time you sign in to Outlook (desktop app, web, or mobile), you’ll need to use the new password.

If You Forgot Your Password

1. Go to the Outlook sign-in page. Open your browser and go to outlook.com. Click “Sign in” and enter your Outlook email address.
2. Click “Forgot password?” On the password entry screen, select the “Forgot password?” link. This starts the account recovery process.
3. Choose a verification method. Microsoft will ask how you want to receive a security code. Options typically include your recovery email address, a phone number (via text or call), or the Microsoft Authenticator app. Select the one you have access to and click “Get code.”
4. Enter the security code. Type the code you received into the field and click “Next.”
5. Create a new password. After verification, you’ll be prompted to create a new password. Enter it twice to confirm, then click “Next.”
6. Sign in with your new password. Once the password is changed, you’ll be signed in automatically. If not, go back to the sign-in page and use the new password.

Changing Password in the Outlook Desktop App

The Outlook desktop app (part of Microsoft 365) does not have a direct “change password” button. Instead, you change your password through your Microsoft account, as described above. After changing it online, the desktop app will prompt you for the new password on your next sign-in. If it doesn’t, sign out and sign back in.

Common Mistakes

• Using a password that’s too simple. Microsoft rejects passwords that are too short or common. Make sure your new password meets the complexity requirements.
• Not updating the desktop app. After changing your password online, other devices (like your phone or the Outlook desktop app) may still prompt for the old one. You need to update the password in each app’s settings.
• Forgetting to verify your identity. If you skip the verification step, you won’t be able to change the password. Always have your recovery method ready.
• Typing the new password incorrectly. Double-check the “Confirm new password” field to avoid typos that lock you out.

Tips

• Use a passphrase. Instead of a single word, use a phrase like “BlueSky!2024!” which is easier to remember and harder to crack.
• Enable two-step verification. This adds an extra layer of security beyond just a password. You can set it up on the same security page.
• Update your recovery info. Make sure your recovery email and phone number are current, so you can always regain access if you forget your password.
• Write it down in a safe place. If you’re prone to forgetting, store your password in a password manager or a physical note in a secure location.

Troubleshooting

• You don’t receive the security code. Check your spam folder for email codes. For phone codes, ensure you have signal and that the number is correct. If you still don’t get it, try a different verification method (e.g., use your recovery email instead of phone).
• Your recovery email or phone is no longer accessible. This is tricky. You’ll need to fill out the Microsoft account recovery form at account.live.com/acsr. Provide as much information as possible about your account (e.g., previous passwords, subject lines of emails) to prove ownership.
• You’re locked out after too many attempts. Wait a few hours or a day. Microsoft temporarily locks accounts after multiple failed attempts. Trying again immediately will not help.
• The new password doesn’t work on your phone. On iOS, go to Settings > Mail > Accounts and update the password. On Android, go to Settings > Accounts > Microsoft account and update it. Delete the account and re-add it if needed.
• You changed your password but Outlook desktop says “wrong password.” Sign out of the desktop app completely, then sign in again with the new password. If it still fails, restart the app or your computer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my Outlook password from the desktop app?

No, the desktop app doesn’t have a direct option. You must change it via the Microsoft account website, then update the app with the new password when prompted.

What should I do if I forgot my password and don’t have access to my recovery email or phone?

You’ll need to complete the Microsoft account recovery form. It asks for details like previous passwords, subject lines, and contacts you’ve emailed. The more accurate your answers, the higher the chance of recovery.

How often should I change my Outlook password?

There’s no official requirement, but it’s good practice to change it every 6-12 months, or immediately if you suspect it’s been compromised.

Will changing my Outlook password affect my other Microsoft services?

Yes, your Outlook password is tied to your Microsoft account, so it will also change for OneDrive, Xbox, Skype, and other Microsoft services. You’ll need to sign in again on those services with the new password.

Can I use the same password I used before?

Microsoft may allow it, but it’s not recommended. Reusing an old password increases the risk of unauthorized access if that password was ever exposed.

What if I have a work or school Outlook account?

For work or school accounts, the password is often managed by your organization’s IT department. You may need to change it through your company’s portal or contact your IT support, not the standard Microsoft account recovery process.

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