Setup Windows Live Mail (Windows 7)

Windows Live Mail

If you just bought a new computer with Windows 7 on it, you may be surprised to learn that it does not come with an email package installed. However, Windows Live Mail is available to Windows 7 users as a free download. When you download Live Mail, the Windows Live site will try to get you to subscribe to other services and get you to signup for a Windows Live ID. You don't need to do this, however, if you just want the mail program.

Download Windows Live Mail:

  • Get Windows Live Mail by going to download.live.com/wlmail.
  • Click the Download button on this page and, when prompted, choose to Run this file from its current location.
  • Once the installer is complete, you'll see a program selection menu. You can check Mail, but do not need to check any other programs. You may be prompted to close other open programs to continue.
  • As the program installs, it may prompt you to "Set your search provider" or "Set your home page". You can uncheck these boxes.
  • Once complete, hit the Close button. You do not need to signup for a Windows Live ID.
Setup Windows Live Mail
  • Click the Start button, then Programs, then the Windows Live group. Click on Windows Live Mail.
  • If it prompts if you want to make Windows Live Mail your default e-mail program, go ahead and accept that.
  • You may be taken to a setup wizard next. If not, click the Add e-mail account link on the left menu.

Your E-Mail & Name

  • E-mail address: Type in your full email address. ie: username@sum.net
  • Password: Enter your Sum.net email password.
  • Display name: Type in your real name the way you wish it to appear on your mail when others receive it.
  • Click Next

Server Settings

  • Incoming e-mail server type: This should be set to "POP3"
  • Incoming Server: This should be set to mail.sum.net
  • Login ID: This should be the first part of your email address before the "@" symbol. Do not include the @sum.net part.
  • Outgoing Server: This should be set to mail.sum.net
  • We recommend you check the box that says "My outgoing server requires authentication".
  • Click on Next.
Adjust Account Settings
  • Once the wizard completes, right click on the account name on the left menu and choose Properties.
  • Click the Advanced tab. Uncheck the option "Leave a copy of messages on server."

You should be all set!