Your Microsoft account is the key to so many of your digital experiences, from Windows and Office to OneDrive and Xbox. But what happens when the email address you originally used is no longer your primary one? Perhaps you’ve switched jobs, graduated from an old school account, or simply want a more professional alias. The good news is that updating it is a straightforward process, and we’re here to guide you through it.
The Simple Steps for How to Change Microsoft Email Account
Changing the primary email on your Microsoft account is done through your account dashboard. First, sign in to your Microsoft account on the official account.microsoft.com website. Navigate to Your Info at the top of the page. Here, you’ll see your account details. Look for the option that says Manage how you sign in to Microsoft. This is the gateway to updating your primary alias.
On the next page, you will see all the email addresses and phone numbers associated with your account. To add a new email, click on Add email. You can add an existing email address (like a Gmail or Outlook.com address) or create a brand-new Outlook.com address. Microsoft will send a verification code to this new address; simply enter it to confirm you have access. Once verified, find the new email in your list of aliases and select Make primary. Your new email is now the main way you’ll sign in.
What to Expect After You Make the Change
It’s important to know that this change is seamless for your data and services. All your files in OneDrive, your game progress on Xbox, your purchased apps, and your Microsoft 365 subscription will remain perfectly intact. They are tied to your core Microsoft account, not the specific email address. You will simply start using the new email address for all future sign-ins. Your old email address will remain as a secondary alias, which you can use to sign in or choose to remove later from the same management screen.
Keeping Your Account Secure
Whenever you make a significant change like this, it’s a perfect time to review your security settings. After updating your primary email, head over to the Security section of your account. Double-check that your recovery phone number and an alternate email address are up-to-date. These are crucial for regaining access to your account if you ever lose your password or get locked out, ensuring a smooth and secure experience with your updated account.
By following these steps, you can easily ensure your Microsoft account reflects your current contact information, keeping you connected and in control of your digital world.
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