How to Fix Windows Live Mail Error 0x8DE00005 – Quick & Easy Solutions

How to Fix Windows Live Mail Error 0x8DE00005 – Quick & Easy Solutions

Windows Live Mail was once a popular email client, but as Microsoft moved to Outlook.com, many users started encountering various errors, including error 0x8DE00005. This error usually occurs when Windows Live Mail fails to sync with Microsoft’s email servers due to security changes, outdated settings, or connectivity issues.

In this article, we’ll explore the causes of Windows Live Mail error 0x8DE00005 and provide step-by-step solutions to fix it.

What Causes Windows Live Mail Error 0x8DE00005?

This error typically occurs for the following reasons:

Microsoft’s Security Changes Microsoft discontinued support for Windows Live Mail, making it harder to connect with Outlook.com.

Incorrect Server Settings IMAP/POP3 or SMTP settings may be outdated or misconfigured.

Blocked Access by Security Software Firewalls or antivirus programs may block Windows Live Mail from syncing.

Outdated Windows Live Mail Version Older versions may no longer support the required authentication methods.

How to Fix Windows Live Mail Error 0x8DE00005

Here are some proven fixes for this error:

1. Update Server Settings for Outlook.com

If you’re using a Microsoft email account (Outlook, Hotmail, Live), update your server settings:

Incoming Mail (IMAP):

Server: imap-mail.outlook.com

Port: 993

Encryption: SSL

Outgoing Mail (SMTP):

Server: smtp-mail.outlook.com

Port: 587

Encryption: TLS

Authentication Required: Yes

To update your settings in Windows Live Mail:

1. Open Windows Live Mail.

2. Click on Accounts > Select your email account.

3. Go to Properties > Servers tab.

4. Update the incoming and outgoing server details as shown above.

5. Click Apply and OK.

2. Enable Two-Step Verification & App Password

If you have two-step verification enabled, you must generate an app password:

1. Go to Microsoft Account Security.

2. Click on Advanced security options.

3. Scroll to App passwords and create one.

4. Use this password instead of your regular Microsoft password in Windows Live Mail.

3. Allow Windows Live Mail Through Firewall & Antivirus

Some security software may block Windows Live Mail’s connection. To fix this:

1. Open your antivirus or firewall settings.

2. Add Windows Live Mail (wlmail.exe) to the allowed list or exceptions.

3. Restart your computer and check if the error is resolved.

4. Repair or Reinstall Windows Live Mail

If the issue persists, try repairing Windows Live Mail:

1. Open Control Panel > Programs and Features.

2. Find Windows Essentials or Windows Live Mail.

3. Click Repair.

If repair doesn’t work, uninstall and reinstall Windows Live Mail.

5. Switch to an Alternative Email Client

Since Windows Live Mail is outdated, consider switching to:

Microsoft Outlook (Paid, feature-rich)

Mozilla Thunderbird (Free, customizable)

Mailbird (User-friendly, modern UI)

Conclusion

Windows Live Mail error 0x8DE00005 is mainly due to Microsoft’s security changes and outdated settings. By updating your email settings, enabling app passwords, adjusting firewall rules, and repairing the software, you can fix this issue.

However, since Windows Live Mail is no longer supported, switching to a modern email client might be the best long-term solution.

Did any of these solutions work for you? Let us know in the comments!