Can't log on to Hotmail easily

OK, now I realize that MS is trying to protect me from all the web baddies. But why can't I log on to their website (hotmail) without turning security off?

I've set that site as OK for cookies. But if security is on then it won't accept my password. I'm not typing it wrong, I've had that email for about 6-7 years now.

As soon as I turn off security, close IE, open IE I can log on. Then I have to turn on security and close IE, then open for security to be back on.

Is there a way I can just log on without turning off security. Or can I convice MS to fix this obvious blunder?

Vista Home basic BTW

What security to turn off?
could u name it in a more specific way?

I use Hotmail regularly, via Windows Live mail. I have the default security options set in IE and Firefox and have never encountered any problems.

Try another web browser?

The securtiy I have to turn of is Internet Explorer : Protected Mode

Just seems rediculous (spl?) to me that Windows browser can't access windows email because windows security thinks there's a problem.

I actually like IE for the most part. I've used other browsers but I can't say I ever got excited about any of them really, just a way to get online.
I'd just stop using hotmail but have had that account for so long, all my mail gets sent there.

Internet Options -> Content tab -> Clear SSL State -> Restart your IE7 and try again.

hope this helps