Microsoft account: Frequently asked questions

A Microsoft account, formerly known as a Windows Live ID, is a combination of an email address and password that you use to sign in to Microsoft services such as Xbox LIVE, Hotmail, and Messenger.

If you use an email address and password to sign in to these or other Microsoft services, you already have a Microsoft account.

Note You may sometimes see Windows Live ID used instead of Microsoft account. These services and websites will be updated soon to reflect the change from Windows Live ID to Microsoft account.

Learn more about your Microsoft account

What's the difference between a Microsoft account, an Xbox LIVE account, and an Xbox Music account?

I don't remember my Microsoft account or my password. How can I find it?

How can I change my Microsoft account password?

How can I resolve problems with the security proofs for my Microsoft account?

Can I switch my Xbox LIVE gamertag to a different Microsoft account?

Why do I get the error "The Microsoft account (or Windows Live ID) you're switching to is already linked to another Xbox account"?

Why do I get error 8015341b when I try to switch my Xbox LIVE gamertag to a different Microsoft account?

How can I get an answer to a billing question about my Microsoft account?

How can I change the payment option associated with my Microsoft account?

How can I resolve an error code when I try to make a purchase?

How can I cancel my Microsoft account?

How can I remove my Microsoft account password from my Xbox 360 console?

How do I set up my account to require a password to sign in to Xbox LIVE?

Why am I getting status code 8015341b when I try to change my Microsoft account?

How can I manage the security info for my Microsoft account? (Note Requires sign-in to your Microsoft account)

How can I add password reset security information to my Microsoft account to make it more secure?