Configuring Hotmail account in Outlook Express is not difficult, it doesn't work in the standard way and you don't need the POP3/SMTP server address. The "add new account" wizard will fill in the necessary information automatically if you specify a Hotmail account. I will explain the details if you still have configuration problems.

But Microsoft has announced months ago: it will disable the free access from Outlook Express, that means you have to pay like yahoo mail, although I still can access my accounts with Outlook Express, many people have complained they can't use it anymore, so, it's just a matter of time.

I would strongly suggest you try Gmail, it's the best one in every aspect I can see.