I cannot sign int my hotmail account on my mac

Dear Sarah-Jane Almand,

It sounds really frustrating to be locked out of your Hotmail account on your Mac, especially when it's working perfectly fine on your phone! That "We can't sign you in right now" message is a common one, and it usually points to a few specific things happening on your computer.

Why You're Seeing This Error

Hotmail, now part of Outlook.com, has updated its security, requiring a more modern way to connect. If your Mac's Mail app or the web browser you're using isn't set up for this new method, or if your macOS is a bit behind, you'll run into this issue. It's less about your Hotmail account itself and more about how your Mac is trying to talk to it.

Let's get you back into your mail on your computer.

1. Re-add Your Account

This is usually the quickest and most successful solution, especially if you're using the Apple Mail app.

• First, let's remove the old connection:

1. Open your Mail app.
2. In the menu bar at the top, go to Mail > Settings (or Preferences on older macOS versions).
3. Click on Accounts.
4. Select your Hotmail account from the list.
5. Click the minus (-) button to remove it.
6. Close the Mail app completely after removing it.

• Now, let's add it back with the modern settings:

1. Open your Mail app again.
2. Go back to Mail > Settings (or Preferences) > Accounts.
3. Click the plus (+) button to add a new account.
4. Here's the crucial step: Instead of choosing "Other Mail Account" or "IMAP/POP," please choose "Microsoft Exchange" or "Outlook.com" from the list of account types.
5. Follow the prompts. Your Mac should then direct you to a secure Microsoft login page to sign in with your Hotmail email and password. This ensures your computer uses the correct, modern way to authenticate.

2. Give Your Mac a Quick Software Update

Sometimes, older versions of macOS might not fully support the latest security protocols, which can cause these kinds of connection issues.

• Go to System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS) > General > Software Update.
• Install any available macOS updates. Once your Mac is updated, try the re-adding steps above again.

3. Clear Your Browser's Memory (If You're Using a Web Browser)

If you're trying to check your Hotmail through a web browser and seeing this message, old or corrupted cached data or cookies could be getting in the way.

• Clear your browser's cache and cookies. You can usually find this option in your browser's settings under "Privacy," "Security," or "History."
• As a quick test, you can also try opening an Incognito or Private Browse window and trying to sign in there. This type of window doesn't use your saved data, which helps us see if the issue is related to your browser's cache.

A Couple More Quick Thoughts

• Temporary Blip: Sometimes, the "try again later" part of the message is literal. If you've tried logging in many times, Microsoft might temporarily block access from your specific device to prevent security risks. Waiting a few hours before trying again can sometimes resolve this.
• Network Check: While less common, a very rare network glitch could be the cause. If possible, you could try connecting your Mac to a different Wi-Fi network (like a mobile hotspot from your phone) just to see if that makes any difference.

I hope these steps provide some immediate relief and guidance. I recognize the importance of reliable email service, and I'm here to help you through these troubleshooting steps.

Please let me know how these suggestions work for you, or if you'd like assistance in navigating Microsoft's support channels.

Warm regards, 

Kal Duong | Microsoft Q&A Support Specialist

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