I've used Windows Live Mail on my XP desktop for a couple of years without
and problems. But recently, some of my contacts have been disappearing. I
can't see any pattern, but I'm guessing that 20 to 25 percent have simply
gone away. Has anyone else encountered a similar problem?

How many total contacts ?
Are they backed up to csv and/or vcf file ?

If Live ID contacts, does similar disappearance exist on the web server(contacts.live.com) ?

--
...winston
ms-mvp mail

"Bob" <bobinsfo@newsgroup> wrote in message news:0907D610-6281-4D52-A381-E761C15689BB@newsgroup

> I've used Windows Live Mail on my XP desktop for a couple of years without
> and problems. But recently, some of my contacts have been disappearing. I
> can't see any pattern, but I'm guessing that 20 to 25 percent have simply
> gone away. Has anyone else encountered a similar problem?
>

.... and has there been any change in the way you connect to the Internet before this started happening? Like installing a wireless network instead of a wired one?
--
Noel

"...winston" <winstonmvp@newsgroup> wrote in message news:OJOpfiwvKHA.3408@newsgroup

> How many total contacts ?
> Are they backed up to csv and/or vcf file ?
>
> If Live ID contacts, does similar disappearance exist on the web server(contacts.live.com) ?

> "Bob" <bobinsfo@newsgroup> wrote in message news:0907D610-6281-4D52-A381-E761C15689BB@newsgroup

>> I've used Windows Live Mail on my XP desktop for a couple of years without and problems. But recently, some of my contacts have been disappearing. I can't see any pattern, but I'm guessing that 20 to 25 percent have simply gone away. Has anyone else encountered a similar problem?

Total contacts today is 417. When I exported to a CSV file a month or so
ago, there were 555. And yes, they seem to disappear on contacts.live.com
as well (there are 419 there). I didn't even know that contacts.live.com
exists, so not sure of the relationship to my contacts list.

And in answer to another response, I have not changed the way I connect to
the internet. I'm not sure whether the missing contacts disappeared all at
once, or whether it was a gradual thing. I just realized a day or so ago
that people I frequently send email to were no longer there. I guess I can
re-import from my csv file, but that will probably result in duplicates (and
won't import groups). Is there a way to completely clear out the contacts
folder in Windows Live Mail?

Bob

"...winston" <winstonmvp@newsgroup> wrote in message
news:OJOpfiwvKHA.3408@newsgroup

> How many total contacts ?
> Are they backed up to csv and/or vcf file ?
>
> If Live ID contacts, does similar disappearance exist on the web
> server(contacts.live.com) ?
>
> --
> ...winston
> ms-mvp mail
>
> "Bob" <bobinsfo@newsgroup> wrote in message
> news:0907D610-6281-4D52-A381-E761C15689BB@newsgroup

>> I've used Windows Live Mail on my XP desktop for a couple of years
>> without and problems. But recently, some of my contacts have been
>> disappearing. I can't see any pattern, but I'm guessing that 20 to 25
>> percent have simply gone away. Has anyone else encountered a similar
>> problem?

A bit of info on Contacts in WLM and the web UI(contacts.live.com)

1. Two different modes are available in WLM
a. Windows Live ID (sign on to Windows Live in WLM)
b. No Live ID(no sign on to Windows Live in WLM)

2. Contacts are stored
c. Locally on your machine in a database file - both (a) and/or (b)
d. Online in the Web UI - only (a)
- thus a Live ID used for (a) has contacts local and online

3. Each Live ID used for sign on(a) has its own database thus one can have multiple contacts lists for different Live ID's (a) and
only one contact list for (b) for use in WLM

4. Only one contact list can be in use at a time in WLM

5. Exporting of contacts to a CSV file can be done in either location
e. WLM
f. Online at contacts.live.com

6. Export/Import content is different depending on the location used to perform the export/import
g. WLM only exports/imports one email field although 4 different email fields can be entered in each contact (personal e-mail,
other e-mail, work e-mail, IM address)
h. WebUI can export/import all four(4) email fields. (more robust than WLM engine)

Your first step if you have multiple email address fields in your contacts and you are (a) would be to go to contacts.live.com,
click Manage/Export, enter the 6-8 character validation when prompted and export the contacts to a csv file(I usually rename the
default prompt filename containing the LiveIDaccount/name/date[yymodd]
e.g. WinstonWebContact_100308.csv)

If you don't use multiple email addresses including IM then WLM export to csv should be fine.


Since you are missing contacts in the Hotmail web interface(had more at one time, now have less), Windows Live Support suggest that
they be contacted to help resolve(they may be able to recover missing contacts from a backup server...like anything else, time
since missing will impact their ability to do so)
<qp>
1. For missing contacts in Windows Live Hotmail Address Book you need to get assistance on how to recover your contacts from
"Windows Live Hotmail Forum"
http://windowslivehelp.com/solution....0-18f75310da22

Iirc, the maximum number of Contacts is 1000 for a Live ID in Hotmail. Window Live Hotmail(web UI) does not delete contacts. If
one reaches the limit, supposedly, removal is necessary to add more.


The Windows Live Solution Center just went 'Live' for WLM and all other Live applications and Live Services (earlier today)
http://windowslivehelp.com/

FAQ's about the the WLSC
http://windowslivehelp.com/solution....5-e1d898ece45d

To contact support, you'll have to 'Ask a Question' in the Solution center
- The link below will take you to the People and Contacts section.

http://windowslivehelp.com/forums.as...e-1868ebe5b411
- to ask a question, registration is required(Live ID)

It is important to be very clear when asking a question to achieve the best results. To resolve a contact issue you may be asked to
provide your email address(they will remove it to protect your privacy).


--
....winston
MS-MVP[Mail]

"Bob" <bobinsfo@newsgroup> wrote in message newsB401D8F-DF57-4764-8269-A4F054243DDB@newsgroup

> Total contacts today is 417. When I exported to a CSV file a month or so ago, there were 555. And yes, they seem to disappear
> on contacts.live.com as well (there are 419 there). I didn't even know that contacts.live.com exists, so not sure of the
> relationship to my contacts list.
>
> And in answer to another response, I have not changed the way I connect to the internet. I'm not sure whether the missing
> contacts disappeared all at once, or whether it was a gradual thing. I just realized a day or so ago that people I frequently
> send email to were no longer there. I guess I can re-import from my csv file, but that will probably result in duplicates (and
> won't import groups). Is there a way to completely clear out the contacts folder in Windows Live Mail?
>
> Bob
>
> "...winston" <winstonmvp@newsgroup> wrote in message news:OJOpfiwvKHA.3408@newsgroup

>> How many total contacts ?
>> Are they backed up to csv and/or vcf file ?
>>
>> If Live ID contacts, does similar disappearance exist on the web server(contacts.live.com) ?
>>
>> --
>> ...winston
>> ms-mvp mail
>>
>> "Bob" <bobinsfo@newsgroup> wrote in message news:0907D610-6281-4D52-A381-E761C15689BB@newsgroup

>>> I've used Windows Live Mail on my XP desktop for a couple of years without and problems. But recently, some of my contacts
>>> have been disappearing. I can't see any pattern, but I'm guessing that 20 to 25 percent have simply gone away. Has anyone
>>> else encountered a similar problem?

>

Thanks for the info; sounds pretty complicated! A few days ago I logged on
to Windows Live (maybe for the first time ever, or at least in a very long
time) because I read an article about SkyDrive and wanted to see what it was
all about. Could the mere fact that I logged on have caused the online
server to "update" my local contact list by deleting all those that were not
in the online contact list? Seems a bit counterproductive if this happens
automatically. Thanks for your help; I'll pursue the leads you suggested.

Bob

"...winston" <winstonmvp@newsgroup> wrote in message
news:#$BXur1vKHA.3896@newsgroup

> A bit of info on Contacts in WLM and the web UI(contacts.live.com)
>
> 1. Two different modes are available in WLM
> a. Windows Live ID (sign on to Windows Live in WLM)
> b. No Live ID(no sign on to Windows Live in WLM)
>
> 2. Contacts are stored
> c. Locally on your machine in a database file - both (a) and/or (b)
> d. Online in the Web UI - only (a)
> - thus a Live ID used for (a) has contacts local and online
>
> 3. Each Live ID used for sign on(a) has its own database thus one can have
> multiple contacts lists for different Live ID's (a) and
> only one contact list for (b) for use in WLM
>
> 4. Only one contact list can be in use at a time in WLM
>
> 5. Exporting of contacts to a CSV file can be done in either location
> e. WLM
> f. Online at contacts.live.com
>
> 6. Export/Import content is different depending on the location used to
> perform the export/import
> g. WLM only exports/imports one email field although 4 different email
> fields can be entered in each contact (personal e-mail,
> other e-mail, work e-mail, IM address)
> h. WebUI can export/import all four(4) email fields. (more robust than WLM
> engine)
>
> Your first step if you have multiple email address fields in your contacts
> and you are (a) would be to go to contacts.live.com,
> click Manage/Export, enter the 6-8 character validation when prompted and
> export the contacts to a csv file(I usually rename the
> default prompt filename containing the LiveIDaccount/name/date[yymodd]
> e.g. WinstonWebContact_100308.csv)
>
> If you don't use multiple email addresses including IM then WLM export to
> csv should be fine.
>
>
> Since you are missing contacts in the Hotmail web interface(had more at
> one time, now have less), Windows Live Support suggest that
> they be contacted to help resolve(they may be able to recover missing
> contacts from a backup server...like anything else, time
> since missing will impact their ability to do so)
> <qp>
> 1. For missing contacts in Windows Live Hotmail Address Book you need to
> get assistance on how to recover your contacts from
> "Windows Live Hotmail Forum"
> http://windowslivehelp.com/solution....0-18f75310da22
>
> Iirc, the maximum number of Contacts is 1000 for a Live ID in Hotmail.
> Window Live Hotmail(web UI) does not delete contacts. If
> one reaches the limit, supposedly, removal is necessary to add more.
>
>
> The Windows Live Solution Center just went 'Live' for WLM and all other
> Live applications and Live Services (earlier today)
> http://windowslivehelp.com/
>
> FAQ's about the the WLSC
> http://windowslivehelp.com/solution....5-e1d898ece45d
>
> To contact support, you'll have to 'Ask a Question' in the Solution center
> - The link below will take you to the People and Contacts section.
>
> http://windowslivehelp.com/forums.as...e-1868ebe5b411
> - to ask a question, registration is required(Live ID)
>
> It is important to be very clear when asking a question to achieve the
> best results. To resolve a contact issue you may be asked to
> provide your email address(they will remove it to protect your privacy).
>
>
> --
> ...winston
> MS-MVP[Mail]
>
> "Bob" <bobinsfo@newsgroup> wrote in message
> newsB401D8F-DF57-4764-8269-A4F054243DDB@newsgroup

>> Total contacts today is 417. When I exported to a CSV file a month or so
>> ago, there were 555. And yes, they seem to disappear
>> on contacts.live.com as well (there are 419 there). I didn't even know
>> that contacts.live.com exists, so not sure of the
>> relationship to my contacts list.
>>
>> And in answer to another response, I have not changed the way I connect
>> to the internet. I'm not sure whether the missing
>> contacts disappeared all at once, or whether it was a gradual thing. I
>> just realized a day or so ago that people I frequently
>> send email to were no longer there. I guess I can re-import from my csv
>> file, but that will probably result in duplicates (and
>> won't import groups). Is there a way to completely clear out the
>> contacts folder in Windows Live Mail?
>>
>> Bob
>>
>> "...winston" <winstonmvp@newsgroup> wrote in message
>> news:OJOpfiwvKHA.3408@newsgroup

>>> How many total contacts ?
>>> Are they backed up to csv and/or vcf file ?
>>>
>>> If Live ID contacts, does similar disappearance exist on the web
>>> server(contacts.live.com) ?
>>>
>>> --
>>> ...winston
>>> ms-mvp mail
>>>
>>> "Bob" <bobinsfo@newsgroup> wrote in message
>>> news:0907D610-6281-4D52-A381-E761C15689BB@newsgroup
>>>> I've used Windows Live Mail on my XP desktop for a couple of years
>>>> without and problems. But recently, some of my contacts
>>>> have been disappearing. I can't see any pattern, but I'm guessing that
>>>> 20 to 25 percent have simply gone away. Has anyone
>>>> else encountered a similar problem?

>>

Logging on to the web UI(any live.com site) does not update local contacts in WLM for either (a) or (b).

Contacts are only sync'ed to/from the web if you sign in with a Live ID to Windows Live **in WLM** - item (a)


When using WLM which of these are you (a) or (b) ?

>> 1. Two different modes are available in WLM
>> a. Windows Live ID (sign on to Windows Live in WLM)
>> b. No Live ID(no sign on to Windows Live in WLM)

To repeat, the only way to have the online Live ID's (a) contacts restored if not capable of importing from a csv or individual vcf
files into that same Live ID in WLM is to work through the support site provided earlier and as soon as possible since backup
servers are constantly being updated with current data replacing older(ie..here today but gone tomorrow).

The support folks can not restore contacts for (b).

--
...winston
ms-mvp mail

"Bob" <bobinsfo@newsgroup> wrote in message news:B3E2BB46-90E9-46D1-86AF-91386273BCE8@newsgroup

> Thanks for the info; sounds pretty complicated! A few days ago I logged on to Windows Live (maybe for the first time ever, or at
> least in a very long time) because I read an article about SkyDrive and wanted to see what it was all about. Could the mere fact
> that I logged on have caused the online server to "update" my local contact list by deleting all those that were not in the
> online contact list? Seems a bit counterproductive if this happens automatically. Thanks for your help; I'll pursue the leads
> you suggested.
>
> Bob
>
> "...winston" <winstonmvp@newsgroup> wrote in message news:#$BXur1vKHA.3896@newsgroup

>> A bit of info on Contacts in WLM and the web UI(contacts.live.com)
>>
>> 1. Two different modes are available in WLM
>> a. Windows Live ID (sign on to Windows Live in WLM)
>> b. No Live ID(no sign on to Windows Live in WLM)
>>
>> 2. Contacts are stored
>> c. Locally on your machine in a database file - both (a) and/or (b)
>> d. Online in the Web UI - only (a)
>> - thus a Live ID used for (a) has contacts local and online
>>
>> 3. Each Live ID used for sign on(a) has its own database thus one can have multiple contacts lists for different Live ID's (a)
>> and
>> only one contact list for (b) for use in WLM
>>
>> 4. Only one contact list can be in use at a time in WLM
>>
>> 5. Exporting of contacts to a CSV file can be done in either location
>> e. WLM
>> f. Online at contacts.live.com
>>
>> 6. Export/Import content is different depending on the location used to perform the export/import
>> g. WLM only exports/imports one email field although 4 different email fields can be entered in each contact (personal e-mail,
>> other e-mail, work e-mail, IM address)
>> h. WebUI can export/import all four(4) email fields. (more robust than WLM engine)
>>
>> Your first step if you have multiple email address fields in your contacts and you are (a) would be to go to contacts.live.com,
>> click Manage/Export, enter the 6-8 character validation when prompted and export the contacts to a csv file(I usually rename the
>> default prompt filename containing the LiveIDaccount/name/date[yymodd]
>> e.g. WinstonWebContact_100308.csv)
>>
>> If you don't use multiple email addresses including IM then WLM export to csv should be fine.
>>
>>
>> Since you are missing contacts in the Hotmail web interface(had more at one time, now have less), Windows Live Support suggest
>> that
>> they be contacted to help resolve(they may be able to recover missing contacts from a backup server...like anything else, time
>> since missing will impact their ability to do so)
>> <qp>
>> 1. For missing contacts in Windows Live Hotmail Address Book you need to get assistance on how to recover your contacts from
>> "Windows Live Hotmail Forum"
>> http://windowslivehelp.com/solution....0-18f75310da22
>>
>> Iirc, the maximum number of Contacts is 1000 for a Live ID in Hotmail. Window Live Hotmail(web UI) does not delete contacts. If
>> one reaches the limit, supposedly, removal is necessary to add more.
>>
>>
>> The Windows Live Solution Center just went 'Live' for WLM and all other Live applications and Live Services (earlier today)
>> http://windowslivehelp.com/
>>
>> FAQ's about the the WLSC
>> http://windowslivehelp.com/solution....5-e1d898ece45d
>>
>> To contact support, you'll have to 'Ask a Question' in the Solution center
>> - The link below will take you to the People and Contacts section.
>>
>> http://windowslivehelp.com/forums.as...e-1868ebe5b411
>> - to ask a question, registration is required(Live ID)
>>
>> It is important to be very clear when asking a question to achieve the best results. To resolve a contact issue you may be asked
>> to
>> provide your email address(they will remove it to protect your privacy).
>>
>>
>> --
>> ...winston
>> MS-MVP[Mail]
>>
>> "Bob" <bobinsfo@newsgroup> wrote in message newsB401D8F-DF57-4764-8269-A4F054243DDB@newsgroup

>>> Total contacts today is 417. When I exported to a CSV file a month or so ago, there were 555. And yes, they seem to disappear
>>> on contacts.live.com as well (there are 419 there). I didn't even know that contacts.live.com exists, so not sure of the
>>> relationship to my contacts list.
>>>
>>> And in answer to another response, I have not changed the way I connect to the internet. I'm not sure whether the missing
>>> contacts disappeared all at once, or whether it was a gradual thing. I just realized a day or so ago that people I frequently
>>> send email to were no longer there. I guess I can re-import from my csv file, but that will probably result in duplicates (and
>>> won't import groups). Is there a way to completely clear out the contacts folder in Windows Live Mail?
>>>
>>> Bob
>>>
>>> "...winston" <winstonmvp@newsgroup> wrote in message news:OJOpfiwvKHA.3408@newsgroup
>>>> How many total contacts ?
>>>> Are they backed up to csv and/or vcf file ?
>>>>
>>>> If Live ID contacts, does similar disappearance exist on the web server(contacts.live.com) ?
>>>>
>>>> --
>>>> ...winston
>>>> ms-mvp mail
>>>>
>>>> "Bob" <bobinsfo@newsgroup> wrote in message news:0907D610-6281-4D52-A381-E761C15689BB@newsgroup
>>>>> I've used Windows Live Mail on my XP desktop for a couple of years without and problems. But recently, some of my contacts
>>>>> have been disappearing. I can't see any pattern, but I'm guessing that 20 to 25 percent have simply gone away. Has anyone
>>>>> else encountered a similar problem?
>>>

I'm still having a problem with WLM. I have a csv file with all my
contacts, but my WLM contact list keeps importing contacts from my hotmail
account. Many of those are outdated. I tried deleting the contact folder
but WLM simply reimports the bad contacts from Hotmail. How do I shut off
the link with hotmail? Or maybe delete all contacts from hotmail so that I
can import the correct contacts into WLM from my csv file? I don't use my
hotmail account, so would just as soon get rid of it. Any suggestions? It
doesn't seem to do any good to log off hotmail. And WLM only gives me the
option of signing in with a different ID. Maybe I should create a dummy
hotmail account, without any contacts, and then sign in to that one, but
that seems kind of silly. There must be a better way.

"...winston" <winstonmvp@newsgroup> wrote in message
news:eQKcbj8vKHA.4636@newsgroup

> Logging on to the web UI(any live.com site) does not update local contacts
> in WLM for either (a) or (b).
>
> Contacts are only sync'ed to/from the web if you sign in with a Live ID to
> Windows Live **in WLM** - item (a)
>
>
> When using WLM which of these are you (a) or (b) ?

>>> 1. Two different modes are available in WLM
>>> a. Windows Live ID (sign on to Windows Live in WLM)
>>> b. No Live ID(no sign on to Windows Live in WLM)

>
> To repeat, the only way to have the online Live ID's (a) contacts restored
> if not capable of importing from a csv or individual vcf files into that
> same Live ID in WLM is to work through the support site provided earlier
> and as soon as possible since backup servers are constantly being updated
> with current data replacing older(ie..here today but gone tomorrow).
>
> The support folks can not restore contacts for (b).
>
> --
> ...winston
> ms-mvp mail
>
> "Bob" <bobinsfo@newsgroup> wrote in message
> news:B3E2BB46-90E9-46D1-86AF-91386273BCE8@newsgroup

>> Thanks for the info; sounds pretty complicated! A few days ago I logged
>> on to Windows Live (maybe for the first time ever, or at least in a very
>> long time) because I read an article about SkyDrive and wanted to see
>> what it was all about. Could the mere fact that I logged on have caused
>> the online server to "update" my local contact list by deleting all those
>> that were not in the online contact list? Seems a bit counterproductive
>> if this happens automatically. Thanks for your help; I'll pursue the
>> leads you suggested.
>>
>> Bob
>>
>> "...winston" <winstonmvp@newsgroup> wrote in message
>> news:#$BXur1vKHA.3896@newsgroup

>>> A bit of info on Contacts in WLM and the web UI(contacts.live.com)
>>>
>>> 1. Two different modes are available in WLM
>>> a. Windows Live ID (sign on to Windows Live in WLM)
>>> b. No Live ID(no sign on to Windows Live in WLM)
>>>
>>> 2. Contacts are stored
>>> c. Locally on your machine in a database file - both (a) and/or (b)
>>> d. Online in the Web UI - only (a)
>>> - thus a Live ID used for (a) has contacts local and online
>>>
>>> 3. Each Live ID used for sign on(a) has its own database thus one can
>>> have multiple contacts lists for different Live ID's (a) and
>>> only one contact list for (b) for use in WLM
>>>
>>> 4. Only one contact list can be in use at a time in WLM
>>>
>>> 5. Exporting of contacts to a CSV file can be done in either location
>>> e. WLM
>>> f. Online at contacts.live.com
>>>
>>> 6. Export/Import content is different depending on the location used to
>>> perform the export/import
>>> g. WLM only exports/imports one email field although 4 different email
>>> fields can be entered in each contact (personal e-mail,
>>> other e-mail, work e-mail, IM address)
>>> h. WebUI can export/import all four(4) email fields. (more robust than
>>> WLM engine)
>>>
>>> Your first step if you have multiple email address fields in your
>>> contacts and you are (a) would be to go to contacts.live.com,
>>> click Manage/Export, enter the 6-8 character validation when prompted
>>> and export the contacts to a csv file(I usually rename the
>>> default prompt filename containing the LiveIDaccount/name/date[yymodd]
>>> e.g. WinstonWebContact_100308.csv)
>>>
>>> If you don't use multiple email addresses including IM then WLM export
>>> to csv should be fine.
>>>
>>>
>>> Since you are missing contacts in the Hotmail web interface(had more at
>>> one time, now have less), Windows Live Support suggest that
>>> they be contacted to help resolve(they may be able to recover missing
>>> contacts from a backup server...like anything else, time
>>> since missing will impact their ability to do so)
>>> <qp>
>>> 1. For missing contacts in Windows Live Hotmail Address Book you need
>>> to get assistance on how to recover your contacts from
>>> "Windows Live Hotmail Forum"
>>> http://windowslivehelp.com/solution....0-18f75310da22
>>>
>>> Iirc, the maximum number of Contacts is 1000 for a Live ID in Hotmail.
>>> Window Live Hotmail(web UI) does not delete contacts. If
>>> one reaches the limit, supposedly, removal is necessary to add more.
>>>
>>>
>>> The Windows Live Solution Center just went 'Live' for WLM and all other
>>> Live applications and Live Services (earlier today)
>>> http://windowslivehelp.com/
>>>
>>> FAQ's about the the WLSC
>>> http://windowslivehelp.com/solution....5-e1d898ece45d
>>>
>>> To contact support, you'll have to 'Ask a Question' in the Solution
>>> center
>>> - The link below will take you to the People and Contacts section.
>>>
>>> http://windowslivehelp.com/forums.as...e-1868ebe5b411
>>> - to ask a question, registration is required(Live ID)
>>>
>>> It is important to be very clear when asking a question to achieve the
>>> best results. To resolve a contact issue you may be asked to
>>> provide your email address(they will remove it to protect your privacy).
>>>
>>>
>>> --
>>> ...winston
>>> MS-MVP[Mail]
>>>
>>> "Bob" <bobinsfo@newsgroup> wrote in message
>>> newsB401D8F-DF57-4764-8269-A4F054243DDB@newsgroup
>>>> Total contacts today is 417. When I exported to a CSV file a month or
>>>> so ago, there were 555. And yes, they seem to disappear
>>>> on contacts.live.com as well (there are 419 there). I didn't even know
>>>> that contacts.live.com exists, so not sure of the
>>>> relationship to my contacts list.
>>>>
>>>> And in answer to another response, I have not changed the way I connect
>>>> to the internet. I'm not sure whether the missing
>>>> contacts disappeared all at once, or whether it was a gradual thing. I
>>>> just realized a day or so ago that people I frequently
>>>> send email to were no longer there. I guess I can re-import from my
>>>> csv file, but that will probably result in duplicates (and
>>>> won't import groups). Is there a way to completely clear out the
>>>> contacts folder in Windows Live Mail?
>>>>
>>>> Bob
>>>>
>>>> "...winston" <winstonmvp@newsgroup> wrote in message
>>>> news:OJOpfiwvKHA.3408@newsgroup
>>>>> How many total contacts ?
>>>>> Are they backed up to csv and/or vcf file ?
>>>>>
>>>>> If Live ID contacts, does similar disappearance exist on the web
>>>>> server(contacts.live.com) ?
>>>>>
>>>>> --
>>>>> ...winston
>>>>> ms-mvp mail
>>>>>
>>>>> "Bob" <bobinsfo@newsgroup> wrote in message
>>>>> news:0907D610-6281-4D52-A381-E761C15689BB@newsgroup
>>>>>> I've used Windows Live Mail on my XP desktop for a couple of years
>>>>>> without and problems. But recently, some of my contacts
>>>>>> have been disappearing. I can't see any pattern, but I'm guessing
>>>>>> that 20 to 25 percent have simply gone away. Has anyone
>>>>>> else encountered a similar problem?
>>>>

Tools, Options, Connection, Stop signing in.
Clicking on the login ID only gives the option to switch IDs.
--
Ron Sommer
MS MVP- Windows Live Mail

"Bob" <bobinsfo@newsgroup> wrote in message
news:81EE1DDE-3C50-49D9-AA8C-AF5668F53632@newsgroup

> I'm still having a problem with WLM. I have a csv file with all my
> contacts, but my WLM contact list keeps importing contacts from my hotmail
> account. Many of those are outdated. I tried deleting the contact folder
> but WLM simply reimports the bad contacts from Hotmail. How do I shut off
> the link with hotmail? Or maybe delete all contacts from hotmail so that
> I can import the correct contacts into WLM from my csv file? I don't use
> my hotmail account, so would just as soon get rid of it. Any suggestions?
> It doesn't seem to do any good to log off hotmail. And WLM only gives me
> the option of signing in with a different ID. Maybe I should create a
> dummy hotmail account, without any contacts, and then sign in to that one,
> but that seems kind of silly. There must be a better way.
>
> "...winston" <winstonmvp@newsgroup> wrote in message
> news:eQKcbj8vKHA.4636@newsgroup

>> Logging on to the web UI(any live.com site) does not update local
>> contacts in WLM for either (a) or (b).
>>
>> Contacts are only sync'ed to/from the web if you sign in with a Live ID
>> to Windows Live **in WLM** - item (a)
>>
>>
>> When using WLM which of these are you (a) or (b) ?

>>>> 1. Two different modes are available in WLM
>>>> a. Windows Live ID (sign on to Windows Live in WLM)
>>>> b. No Live ID(no sign on to Windows Live in WLM)

>>
>> To repeat, the only way to have the online Live ID's (a) contacts
>> restored if not capable of importing from a csv or individual vcf files
>> into that same Live ID in WLM is to work through the support site
>> provided earlier and as soon as possible since backup servers are
>> constantly being updated with current data replacing older(ie..here today
>> but gone tomorrow).
>>
>> The support folks can not restore contacts for (b).
>>
>> --
>> ...winston
>> ms-mvp mail
>>
>> "Bob" <bobinsfo@newsgroup> wrote in message
>> news:B3E2BB46-90E9-46D1-86AF-91386273BCE8@newsgroup

>>> Thanks for the info; sounds pretty complicated! A few days ago I logged
>>> on to Windows Live (maybe for the first time ever, or at least in a very
>>> long time) because I read an article about SkyDrive and wanted to see
>>> what it was all about. Could the mere fact that I logged on have caused
>>> the online server to "update" my local contact list by deleting all
>>> those that were not in the online contact list? Seems a bit
>>> counterproductive if this happens automatically. Thanks for your help;
>>> I'll pursue the leads you suggested.
>>>
>>> Bob
>>>
>>> "...winston" <winstonmvp@newsgroup> wrote in message
>>> news:#$BXur1vKHA.3896@newsgroup
>>>> A bit of info on Contacts in WLM and the web UI(contacts.live.com)
>>>>
>>>> 1. Two different modes are available in WLM
>>>> a. Windows Live ID (sign on to Windows Live in WLM)
>>>> b. No Live ID(no sign on to Windows Live in WLM)
>>>>
>>>> 2. Contacts are stored
>>>> c. Locally on your machine in a database file - both (a) and/or (b)
>>>> d. Online in the Web UI - only (a)
>>>> - thus a Live ID used for (a) has contacts local and online
>>>>
>>>> 3. Each Live ID used for sign on(a) has its own database thus one can
>>>> have multiple contacts lists for different Live ID's (a) and
>>>> only one contact list for (b) for use in WLM
>>>>
>>>> 4. Only one contact list can be in use at a time in WLM
>>>>
>>>> 5. Exporting of contacts to a CSV file can be done in either location
>>>> e. WLM
>>>> f. Online at contacts.live.com
>>>>
>>>> 6. Export/Import content is different depending on the location used to
>>>> perform the export/import
>>>> g. WLM only exports/imports one email field although 4 different email
>>>> fields can be entered in each contact (personal e-mail,
>>>> other e-mail, work e-mail, IM address)
>>>> h. WebUI can export/import all four(4) email fields. (more robust than
>>>> WLM engine)
>>>>
>>>> Your first step if you have multiple email address fields in your
>>>> contacts and you are (a) would be to go to contacts.live.com,
>>>> click Manage/Export, enter the 6-8 character validation when prompted
>>>> and export the contacts to a csv file(I usually rename the
>>>> default prompt filename containing the LiveIDaccount/name/date[yymodd]
>>>> e.g. WinstonWebContact_100308.csv)
>>>>
>>>> If you don't use multiple email addresses including IM then WLM export
>>>> to csv should be fine.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Since you are missing contacts in the Hotmail web interface(had more at
>>>> one time, now have less), Windows Live Support suggest that
>>>> they be contacted to help resolve(they may be able to recover missing
>>>> contacts from a backup server...like anything else, time
>>>> since missing will impact their ability to do so)
>>>> <qp>
>>>> 1. For missing contacts in Windows Live Hotmail Address Book you need
>>>> to get assistance on how to recover your contacts from
>>>> "Windows Live Hotmail Forum"
>>>> http://windowslivehelp.com/solution....0-18f75310da22
>>>>
>>>> Iirc, the maximum number of Contacts is 1000 for a Live ID in Hotmail.
>>>> Window Live Hotmail(web UI) does not delete contacts. If
>>>> one reaches the limit, supposedly, removal is necessary to add more.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> The Windows Live Solution Center just went 'Live' for WLM and all other
>>>> Live applications and Live Services (earlier today)
>>>> http://windowslivehelp.com/
>>>>
>>>> FAQ's about the the WLSC
>>>> http://windowslivehelp.com/solution....5-e1d898ece45d
>>>>
>>>> To contact support, you'll have to 'Ask a Question' in the Solution
>>>> center
>>>> - The link below will take you to the People and Contacts section.
>>>>
>>>> http://windowslivehelp.com/forums.as...e-1868ebe5b411
>>>> - to ask a question, registration is required(Live ID)
>>>>
>>>> It is important to be very clear when asking a question to achieve the
>>>> best results. To resolve a contact issue you may be asked to
>>>> provide your email address(they will remove it to protect your
>>>> privacy).
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> --
>>>> ...winston
>>>> MS-MVP[Mail]
>>>>
>>>> "Bob" <bobinsfo@newsgroup> wrote in message
>>>> newsB401D8F-DF57-4764-8269-A4F054243DDB@newsgroup
>>>>> Total contacts today is 417. When I exported to a CSV file a month or
>>>>> so ago, there were 555. And yes, they seem to disappear
>>>>> on contacts.live.com as well (there are 419 there). I didn't even
>>>>> know that contacts.live.com exists, so not sure of the
>>>>> relationship to my contacts list.
>>>>>
>>>>> And in answer to another response, I have not changed the way I
>>>>> connect to the internet. I'm not sure whether the missing
>>>>> contacts disappeared all at once, or whether it was a gradual thing.
>>>>> I just realized a day or so ago that people I frequently
>>>>> send email to were no longer there. I guess I can re-import from my
>>>>> csv file, but that will probably result in duplicates (and
>>>>> won't import groups). Is there a way to completely clear out the
>>>>> contacts folder in Windows Live Mail?
>>>>>
>>>>> Bob
>>>>>
>>>>> "...winston" <winstonmvp@newsgroup> wrote in message
>>>>> news:OJOpfiwvKHA.3408@newsgroup
>>>>>> How many total contacts ?
>>>>>> Are they backed up to csv and/or vcf file ?
>>>>>>
>>>>>> If Live ID contacts, does similar disappearance exist on the web
>>>>>> server(contacts.live.com) ?
>>>>>>
>>>>>> --
>>>>>> ...winston
>>>>>> ms-mvp mail
>>>>>>
>>>>>> "Bob" <bobinsfo@newsgroup> wrote in message
>>>>>> news:0907D610-6281-4D52-A381-E761C15689BB@newsgroup
>>>>>>> I've used Windows Live Mail on my XP desktop for a couple of years
>>>>>>> without and problems. But recently, some of my contacts
>>>>>>> have been disappearing. I can't see any pattern, but I'm guessing
>>>>>>> that 20 to 25 percent have simply gone away. Has anyone
>>>>>>> else encountered a similar problem?
>>>>>

Thank you!!!!

"Ron Sommer" <rsommer@newsgroup> wrote in message
news:#Xy$yKwwKHA.5940@newsgroup

> Tools, Options, Connection, Stop signing in.
> Clicking on the login ID only gives the option to switch IDs.
> --
> Ron Sommer
> MS MVP- Windows Live Mail
>
> "Bob" <bobinsfo@newsgroup> wrote in message
> news:81EE1DDE-3C50-49D9-AA8C-AF5668F53632@newsgroup

>> I'm still having a problem with WLM. I have a csv file with all my
>> contacts, but my WLM contact list keeps importing contacts from my
>> hotmail account. Many of those are outdated. I tried deleting the
>> contact folder but WLM simply reimports the bad contacts from Hotmail.
>> How do I shut off the link with hotmail? Or maybe delete all contacts
>> from hotmail so that I can import the correct contacts into WLM from my
>> csv file? I don't use my hotmail account, so would just as soon get rid
>> of it. Any suggestions? It doesn't seem to do any good to log off
>> hotmail. And WLM only gives me the option of signing in with a different
>> ID. Maybe I should create a dummy hotmail account, without any contacts,
>> and then sign in to that one, but that seems kind of silly. There must
>> be a better way.
>>
>> "...winston" <winstonmvp@newsgroup> wrote in message
>> news:eQKcbj8vKHA.4636@newsgroup

>>> Logging on to the web UI(any live.com site) does not update local
>>> contacts in WLM for either (a) or (b).
>>>
>>> Contacts are only sync'ed to/from the web if you sign in with a Live ID
>>> to Windows Live **in WLM** - item (a)
>>>
>>>
>>> When using WLM which of these are you (a) or (b) ?
>>>>> 1. Two different modes are available in WLM
>>>>> a. Windows Live ID (sign on to Windows Live in WLM)
>>>>> b. No Live ID(no sign on to Windows Live in WLM)
>>>
>>> To repeat, the only way to have the online Live ID's (a) contacts
>>> restored if not capable of importing from a csv or individual vcf files
>>> into that same Live ID in WLM is to work through the support site
>>> provided earlier and as soon as possible since backup servers are
>>> constantly being updated with current data replacing older(ie..here
>>> today but gone tomorrow).
>>>
>>> The support folks can not restore contacts for (b).
>>>
>>> --
>>> ...winston
>>> ms-mvp mail
>>>
>>> "Bob" <bobinsfo@newsgroup> wrote in message
>>> news:B3E2BB46-90E9-46D1-86AF-91386273BCE8@newsgroup
>>>> Thanks for the info; sounds pretty complicated! A few days ago I
>>>> logged on to Windows Live (maybe for the first time ever, or at least
>>>> in a very long time) because I read an article about SkyDrive and
>>>> wanted to see what it was all about. Could the mere fact that I logged
>>>> on have caused the online server to "update" my local contact list by
>>>> deleting all those that were not in the online contact list? Seems a
>>>> bit counterproductive if this happens automatically. Thanks for your
>>>> help; I'll pursue the leads you suggested.
>>>>
>>>> Bob
>>>>
>>>> "...winston" <winstonmvp@newsgroup> wrote in message
>>>> news:#$BXur1vKHA.3896@newsgroup
>>>>> A bit of info on Contacts in WLM and the web UI(contacts.live.com)
>>>>>
>>>>> 1. Two different modes are available in WLM
>>>>> a. Windows Live ID (sign on to Windows Live in WLM)
>>>>> b. No Live ID(no sign on to Windows Live in WLM)
>>>>>
>>>>> 2. Contacts are stored
>>>>> c. Locally on your machine in a database file - both (a) and/or (b)
>>>>> d. Online in the Web UI - only (a)
>>>>> - thus a Live ID used for (a) has contacts local and online
>>>>>
>>>>> 3. Each Live ID used for sign on(a) has its own database thus one can
>>>>> have multiple contacts lists for different Live ID's (a) and
>>>>> only one contact list for (b) for use in WLM
>>>>>
>>>>> 4. Only one contact list can be in use at a time in WLM
>>>>>
>>>>> 5. Exporting of contacts to a CSV file can be done in either location
>>>>> e. WLM
>>>>> f. Online at contacts.live.com
>>>>>
>>>>> 6. Export/Import content is different depending on the location used
>>>>> to perform the export/import
>>>>> g. WLM only exports/imports one email field although 4 different email
>>>>> fields can be entered in each contact (personal e-mail,
>>>>> other e-mail, work e-mail, IM address)
>>>>> h. WebUI can export/import all four(4) email fields. (more robust than
>>>>> WLM engine)
>>>>>
>>>>> Your first step if you have multiple email address fields in your
>>>>> contacts and you are (a) would be to go to contacts.live.com,
>>>>> click Manage/Export, enter the 6-8 character validation when prompted
>>>>> and export the contacts to a csv file(I usually rename the
>>>>> default prompt filename containing the LiveIDaccount/name/date[yymodd]
>>>>> e.g. WinstonWebContact_100308.csv)
>>>>>
>>>>> If you don't use multiple email addresses including IM then WLM export
>>>>> to csv should be fine.
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> Since you are missing contacts in the Hotmail web interface(had more
>>>>> at one time, now have less), Windows Live Support suggest that
>>>>> they be contacted to help resolve(they may be able to recover missing
>>>>> contacts from a backup server...like anything else, time
>>>>> since missing will impact their ability to do so)
>>>>> <qp>
>>>>> 1. For missing contacts in Windows Live Hotmail Address Book you need
>>>>> to get assistance on how to recover your contacts from
>>>>> "Windows Live Hotmail Forum"
>>>>> http://windowslivehelp.com/solution....0-18f75310da22
>>>>>
>>>>> Iirc, the maximum number of Contacts is 1000 for a Live ID in Hotmail.
>>>>> Window Live Hotmail(web UI) does not delete contacts. If
>>>>> one reaches the limit, supposedly, removal is necessary to add more.
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> The Windows Live Solution Center just went 'Live' for WLM and all
>>>>> other Live applications and Live Services (earlier today)
>>>>> http://windowslivehelp.com/
>>>>>
>>>>> FAQ's about the the WLSC
>>>>> http://windowslivehelp.com/solution....5-e1d898ece45d
>>>>>
>>>>> To contact support, you'll have to 'Ask a Question' in the Solution
>>>>> center
>>>>> - The link below will take you to the People and Contacts section.
>>>>>
>>>>> http://windowslivehelp.com/forums.as...e-1868ebe5b411
>>>>> - to ask a question, registration is required(Live ID)
>>>>>
>>>>> It is important to be very clear when asking a question to achieve the
>>>>> best results. To resolve a contact issue you may be asked to
>>>>> provide your email address(they will remove it to protect your
>>>>> privacy).
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> --
>>>>> ...winston
>>>>> MS-MVP[Mail]
>>>>>
>>>>> "Bob" <bobinsfo@newsgroup> wrote in message
>>>>> newsB401D8F-DF57-4764-8269-A4F054243DDB@newsgroup
>>>>>> Total contacts today is 417. When I exported to a CSV file a month
>>>>>> or so ago, there were 555. And yes, they seem to disappear
>>>>>> on contacts.live.com as well (there are 419 there). I didn't even
>>>>>> know that contacts.live.com exists, so not sure of the
>>>>>> relationship to my contacts list.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> And in answer to another response, I have not changed the way I
>>>>>> connect to the internet. I'm not sure whether the missing
>>>>>> contacts disappeared all at once, or whether it was a gradual thing.
>>>>>> I just realized a day or so ago that people I frequently
>>>>>> send email to were no longer there. I guess I can re-import from my
>>>>>> csv file, but that will probably result in duplicates (and
>>>>>> won't import groups). Is there a way to completely clear out the
>>>>>> contacts folder in Windows Live Mail?
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Bob
>>>>>>
>>>>>> "...winston" <winstonmvp@newsgroup> wrote in message
>>>>>> news:OJOpfiwvKHA.3408@newsgroup
>>>>>>> How many total contacts ?
>>>>>>> Are they backed up to csv and/or vcf file ?
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> If Live ID contacts, does similar disappearance exist on the web
>>>>>>> server(contacts.live.com) ?
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> --
>>>>>>> ...winston
>>>>>>> ms-mvp mail
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> "Bob" <bobinsfo@newsgroup> wrote in message
>>>>>>> news:0907D610-6281-4D52-A381-E761C15689BB@newsgroup
>>>>>>>> I've used Windows Live Mail on my XP desktop for a couple of years
>>>>>>>> without and problems. But recently, some of my contacts
>>>>>>>> have been disappearing. I can't see any pattern, but I'm guessing
>>>>>>>> that 20 to 25 percent have simply gone away. Has anyone
>>>>>>>> else encountered a similar problem?
>>>>>>