If you are not satisfied with Microsoft services, privacy policies or simply want to switch to another provider, you may want to delete your Microsoft account. However, before proceeding with this process, it’s important to note that deleting your Microsoft account will also erase all your data and you will no longer have access to any of the services associated with it. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to delete your Microsoft account.
Step 1: Sign in to your Microsoft account
The first step is to sign in to your Microsoft account. Go to the Microsoft Sign-in page and enter your email address and password. If you have two-factor authentication enabled, you may be prompted to verify your identity via code or email.
Step 2: Verify your account
Next, you will need to verify your account before you can delete it. Click on the security tab and select security overview. You will be prompted to verify your identity via email or text message.
Step 3: Navigate to the ‘Close your account’ page
After verifying your account, navigate to the ‘Close your account’ page. Click on ‘More security options’ at the bottom of the page, then click on ‘Close my account.’
Step 4: Read the instructions and proceed
Before proceeding further, Microsoft will ask you to read instructions on what will happen when you close your account. If you are sure you want to delete your account, select a reason and click ‘Next.’
Step 5: Provide Microsoft with feedback
At this stage, Microsoft will ask you to provide feedback on why you are closing your account. You can provide feedback if you wish or select ‘Skip for now.’
Step 6: Read the notifications
Before the account is deleted, you will receive a notification with important information about what will happen to your Microsoft account data. Read the notifications carefully and click ‘Mark account for closure.’
Step 7: Wait for the 60-day grace period
After marking your account for closure, you will need to wait for a 60-day grace period in which you can cancel the deletion process. During this time, your account remains active, and you can continue to use it. If you change your mind, log in to your account before the end of the 60-day grace period and click on ‘Cancel account closure.’
Step 8: Account deleted
If you do not cancel, your account will be deleted at the end of the 60-day grace period. Your data will be permanently deleted, and you will lose access to all Microsoft services associated with your account.
In conclusion, deleting your Microsoft account is a straightforward process that can be completed in a few simple steps. Remember to save or transfer any necessary data before deleting your account as the process cannot be reversed.