Hotmail will not allow me to log in to my account . . . .

If you have an anti virus system like Norton and it runs to delete your cookies it may have deleted your previously set codes for that access. Usually you have to enter an e mail or phone that they call you at to give you a temporary access code, as security to the site. Then you enter a new password as your previous one is no good anymore. Some times calling them by phone is easier as they will explain the process.