How to Link Windows Live Accounts

If you have more than one Windows Live account (MSN, Hotmail, Messenger, Xbox LIVE, etc.), you can link up to five of those accounts together so you don't have to log in and log out to check them. You just sign in to one of those five accounts; then, click the down arrow symbol (to the right of your display name) to switch to another account.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• More than one Windows Live accounts (MSN, Hotmail, Messenger, Xbox LIVE, etc.)

1. 
    

   Log in to one of your Windows Live accounts.

2. Navigate to https://account.live.com. The Account - Windows Live page opens for that account.

3. 
    

   In the left frame under Account, click Linked IDs.
   
   FYI: The Windows Live account you logged into is listed in the middle frame.

4. Click Link an Existing Windows Live ID. A window opens for verifying current information and entering the Windows Live ID you want to link to the first account.

5. 
    

   VERIFYING CURRENT ACCOUNT INFORMATION & LINKING TO OTHER WINDOWS LIVE ACCOUNTS:
   
   a. Type your password for the Windows Live account you previously logged into during Step 1.
   
   b. Type the Windows Live address and password for the account you want to link to the one you're currently signed into.
   
   c. Click Link. The Managed Linked IDs window opens.

6. Click one of commands at the top of the Manage Linked IDs window. The window for the Windows Live account you logged into during Step 1 opens.

7. 
    

   Click the arrow to the right of your Windows Live display name (see graphic). A drop down list opens with the current account highlighted. Select one of your other Windows Live accounts.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have more than five Windows Live accounts, categorize them (e.g., personal, business), and then link the accounts in those categories together.
• If you are idle for a period of time, you may receive a prompt to authenticate one or more of your linked Windows Live accounts.

[jeni10]

on 11/10/2009 Well written, and informative, article on how to link Windows Live accounts. 5*

[barbiecrafts]

on 11/8/2009 I will have to look into this...5 reccomended subscribed

[armentrout93]

on 10/19/2009 Great article. I am going to try this. Thanks! 5*

[rkremer]

on 10/4/2009 Great directions!

[femwriter]

on 9/30/2009 Excellent information on how to link Windows live accounts. I like reading your article and thanks for sharing it. 5* plus recommendation!