How to Change Password for Outlook Mail

Understanding How to Change Password for Outlook Mail

Outlook Mail relies on a Microsoft account for authentication. Changing the password at the account level updates access across Outlook on the web, the Windows desktop app, and mobile devices. You must know your current password to complete the change. Two-factor authentication, if enabled, will require an additional verification code sent to your phone or authenticator app.

Before starting, make sure you are signed in on a secure network and have access to the recovery email or phone number linked to the account. This prevents lockouts if the new password is forgotten.

How to Change Password for Outlook Mail Step by Step

1. Sign in to Outlook on the web

   Open your browser and go to outlook.live.com. Enter your Outlook Mail address and current password to reach the inbox. Click your profile picture in the top-right corner and select "View account" to open the Microsoft account dashboard.

   

2. Navigate to the Security section

   On the account dashboard, click the "Security" tab in the left menu. Under the Security basics heading, locate and click the "Change password" link. Microsoft will prompt you to verify your identity if two-factor authentication is active.

3. Enter and confirm the new password

   Type your current password in the first field. Create a new password that meets the requirements: at least eight characters with a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols. Re-enter the new password in the confirmation field and click Save.

   

4. Update the password in the Outlook desktop app

   If you use the Windows desktop version, open Outlook and go to File > Account Settings > Account Settings. Select your email account, click Change, then update the password field with the new credentials. Click Next and Finish to complete the update.

5. Verify access on all devices

   Sign out of Outlook on every device and sign back in using the new password. Check the mobile Outlook app under Settings > Accounts to ensure the updated password is recognized and no sync errors appear.

Common Issues When Changing Password for Outlook Mail

• If the "Change password" option is missing, your account may be managed by a work or school administrator. Contact your IT department instead of using the personal account flow.
• Password reset emails sometimes land in spam folders. Search for messages from account-security@microsoft.com if you do not receive the verification code promptly.
• After changing the password, some older email clients may show authentication errors. Remove and re-add the Outlook Mail account in those clients to resolve the issue.
• Using a password manager? Update the saved entry immediately after the change to avoid future login problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my Outlook Mail password from the mobile app?

No. The mobile Outlook app does not contain a password change option. You must use a web browser on any device to visit the Microsoft account security page and complete the change there.

How often should I change my Outlook Mail password?

Microsoft no longer recommends routine password changes unless you suspect your account has been compromised. Enable two-factor authentication and use a strong, unique password instead.

What happens to connected apps after I change the password?

Any app or service using the old password will stop syncing. You must sign out and sign back in with the new password on each connected service, including OneDrive, Teams, and the Xbox app.

Conclusion

Performing How to Change Password for Outlook Mail regularly strengthens account security and maintains uninterrupted access to your email across all platforms.