How to get an email

Having an email address is an expected form of communication in our professional and personal lives. According to Market.us, over 90% of Americans use email and around the globe, it’s expected that we’ve now hit 4.6 billion email users. You need one to apply for jobs, sign up for services, communicate with colleagues, and access almost everything online. If you've never created an email account before, the process might feel daunting, but it's actually straightforward.

Our guide will take you through the three essential steps:

1. Choosing an email provider
2. Setting up your account
3. Securing your inbox 

How to choose your email provider

Before you create an account, you need to decide where to host it. The most popular free providers are:

Gmail (Google) 

Gmail is reliable, easy to use, and integrates with Google Drive, Calendar, and Docs. It's the most widely used email service globally, with more than 1 billion active users according to Business Insider.

Outlook (Microsoft) 

Outlook works well for users who already use Microsoft 365 or Office tools. It offers a clean interface and strong organizational features - especially helpful in a work context.

Yahoo Mail 

Yahoo is known for generous storage and solid spam filtering. It's been around for decades and benefits from being a familiar account name.

ProtonMail 

ProtonMail is ideal for those who value privacy and encryption. It's based in Switzerland and doesn't track or sell your data. With over 100 million users, it’s a popular choice for many people.

Setting up an account for work? Consider a custom domain email address (like you@yourbusiness.com). Both Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 offer affordable plans that include domain-specific addresses and collaboration tools. Read our guide for all the top tips: How to create a business email address

Go to the provider's sign-up page

Once you've chosen your provider, the setup process is quick.

Go to the provider's website. For Gmail, visit mail.google.com. For Outlook, go to outlook.com. For Yahoo, visit mail.yahoo.com.

Click Create account or Sign up. Enter your details, including your name, preferred email address, and a strong password.

Keep your email name simple and professional, especially if you'll use it for job applications or networking. Good formats include firstname.lastname@gmail.com or firstname@companyname.com. Avoid random numbers or unnecessary characters. A professional-looking address builds trust before someone even opens your message. Our guide can take you through the whole process: How to create a professional email address

Tip: Your password should be at least 12 characters long and include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid obvious choices like "password123" or your birthday. A strong password is your first line of defense against unauthorized access.

Verify your identity

Most providers ask you to verify your identity to keep your account secure. This usually involves entering your phone number or a second, recovery email address, then receiving a verification code via text or email.

Verification adds an essential layer of protection for your account. By verifying your identity with more than just a password, you significantly reduce your risk of being hacked.

Access your new inbox

Welcome to your new email account. Once your account is verified, you're ready to log in and explore your new inbox.

Take a few minutes to learn the layout. Locate the Compose, Reply, and Forward buttons. Explore settings for organization, notifications, and themes.

Try sending a test email to yourself (inputting your own email address where it says ‘To’ on a new message) to get comfortable with the process. This helps you understand how email works before you start sending important emails.

Using email on your phone:

Most providers offer mobile apps that make checking email on the go easy. Download your provider's official app from the App Store or Google Play. Sign in using the same username and password you created earlier.

Mobile apps send notifications when new messages arrive, so you don't have to constantly check your inbox. You can adjust notification settings in the app if you prefer fewer alerts.

Manage and secure your account

Now that your email is active, make sure it stays safe and well-organized. Follow these tips:

1. Set up recovery options
   
   Add a phone number or secondary email for password resets. If you ever forget your password or get locked out, these recovery options help you regain access quickly.
   
2. Create filters and folders
   
   Automatically categorize messages to keep your inbox tidy. For example, you can set up a filter to move all newsletters into a separate folder, keeping your main inbox clear for important messages.
   
3. Avoid phishing scams
   
   Never click on suspicious links or attachments. If an email looks off (strange sender address, urgent language, unexpected attachments), delete it. Legitimate companies won't ask for passwords or personal information via email.
   
4. Update your password regularly
   
   Change it every few months to prevent breaches. If you hear about a data breach affecting a service you use, change your password immediately.

Start communicating with confidence

Setting up an email account opens the door to nearly every online service available today. Choose a trusted provider, follow the registration steps carefully, and prioritize security from day one.

Once you've created your account, take time to personalize it. Add a signature, set up filters, and practice professional email etiquette. These small details make a big difference in how others perceive your communication.

Selected Gmail or Outlook for your new account? Fyxer can help you manage your inbox. It drafts responses for you in your own voice, so you can send professional emails without second-guessing every word. It saves an average of 6.5 hours every week, giving you more time to focus on what matters. Try it now.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

How do I get my email on my phone?

Download your email provider's app (like Gmail or Outlook) from the App Store or Google Play. Log in with your account details and enable notifications for real-time updates.

Can I get an email address for free?

Yes. Gmail, Outlook, and Yahoo Mail all offer free accounts with generous storage limits and solid functionality. You don't need to pay for basic email services.

Do I need a phone number to create an email?

Most providers require a phone number for verification and password recovery. It's an important step for account security and helps you regain access if you forget your password.

What's the safest email provider?

For enhanced privacy, ProtonMail and Tutanota are leading options. For general use, Gmail offers strong protection backed by Google's advanced security systems.

Can I have more than one email account?

Absolutely. Many people maintain multiple addresses for personal use, professional communication, and subscriptions. You can manage multiple accounts through most email apps.

How do I recover my email if I forget my password?

Use your provider's password recovery feature. A link or code will be sent to your registered phone number or recovery email. Follow the prompts to reset your password.

Should I use my real name in my email address?

If you're using it for professional communication, yes. A clear and identifiable email address looks more credible and trustworthy. For personal use, you have more flexibility.

You may also be interested in:

How to email someone

How to find an email address