Is Hotmail Still Around? Everything You Need to Know
Yes, Hotmail still works! Learn what happened to Hotmail, how to access old Hotmail accounts, and why it's now part of Outlook.com.

Hotmail was one of the pioneers of web-based email services, but over the years, many users have wondered: Is Hotmail still active? Does Hotmail still exist? In this article, we answer all your questions about Hotmail, its transition to Outlook, and whether you can still access your old Hotmail account.
What Happened to Hotmail?
Hotmail was originally launched in 1996 as one of the first web-based email services. In 1997, Microsoft acquired Hotmail and integrated it into its growing suite of internet services. However, in 2012, Microsoft officially rebranded Hotmail to Outlook.com, replacing the old interface with a more modern and user-friendly email platform.
Has Hotmail Changed to Outlook?
Yes, Hotmail has been completely transitioned to Outlook.com. This means that while the Hotmail brand no longer exists as a standalone service, Hotmail accounts are still active and accessible through Outlook.com.
Can You Still Use Hotmail?
Yes! If you have an old Hotmail email (e.g., yourname@hotmail.com), you can still log in at www.hotmail.com or Outlook.com. Microsoft continues to support Hotmail users, allowing them to send and receive emails as usual.
Does Hotmail Still Work?
Yes, Hotmail still works under the Outlook.com platform. You can access it via:
- Web Browser: Go to Outlook.com and log in with your Hotmail credentials.
- Mobile App: Use the Microsoft Outlook app for Android and iOS.
- Email Clients: You can set up your Hotmail email in Outlook, Apple Mail, or other email apps using IMAP/POP settings.
Is Hotmail Still Available for New Users?
If you’re wondering, can I sign up for a new Hotmail account? the answer is no. Microsoft no longer offers new Hotmail email addresses. Instead, users can create a new Outlook.com email, which provides all the same features and services.
Do People Still Use Hotmail?
Despite its rebranding, millions of people still use Hotmail addresses today. Many long-time users prefer to keep their Hotmail email instead of switching to a new Outlook.com address.
Is Hotmail Going Away?
There have been no official announcements from Microsoft indicating that Hotmail will be discontinued. Users can continue using their Hotmail accounts as part of Outlook.com without any issues.
Does Hotmail Still Secure and Exist?
Microsoft has implemented strong security measures for all Outlook.com accounts, including those with Hotmail addresses. Features include:
- Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
- Advanced spam filtering
- Encryption for emails and attachments
If you’re concerned about security, make sure to enable two-factor authentication and use a strong password.
Common Hotmail Issues & Troubleshooting
Some users report problems such as Hotmail not working, Hotmail login issues, or Hotmail server down messages. If you’re experiencing issues:
- Check Microsoft’s Service Status Page: Click here to see if there are any outages.
- Reset Your Password: If you can’t log in, try resetting your password via Microsoft’s account recovery page.
- Use an Email Client: If the web version isn’t working, try accessing your email through an app like Outlook.
FAQs About Hotmail
1. Is Hotmail and Outlook the same?
Yes, Hotmail has been fully integrated into Outlook.com. Your Hotmail email is now managed through Outlook’s platform.
2. When did Hotmail become Outlook?
Microsoft rebranded Hotmail to Outlook in 2012.
3. Can I recover an old Hotmail account?
Yes, if your account has been inactive for a long time, try logging in at Outlook.com. If that doesn’t work, use Microsoft’s account recovery tool.
4. Is Hotmail still supported?
Yes, Microsoft continues to support Hotmail accounts under Outlook.com.
5. What is the target audience for Hotmail?
Hotmail (now Outlook) caters to both personal and business users. It remains a popular choice for long-time Microsoft users and those integrated into the Microsoft ecosystem (Windows, Office 365, etc.).
Conclusion
Does Hotmail still exist, but it has been rebranded as Outlook.com. If you have an old Hotmail email, you can still use it today. While new users cannot sign up for a Hotmail address, existing users can continue to access their accounts without any issues. If you’re wondering “is Hotmail still a thing?”, the answer is a resounding yes—but under a new name: Outlook.com.
For the latest updates, always check Microsoft’s official announcements or Outlook.com’s service status. If you want to backup hotmail emails check our dedicated article.