I am trying to figure out this problem...

While trying to use Outlook Express 5 the option to add your Hotmail E-mail account is given and the address is already chosen to download the folders and settings for this. However when you try to log on it says downloading folders and just hangs for hours on end...I can only assume this is for a few reasons.

1. Microsoft decided after the fact that having people check their E-mail over Outlook instread of going to the site was a bad idea and canceled the server.
2. My Computer is **** and being a goverment one I have no choice
3. I am doing something wrong and that is why I am asking for help...!

If this isn't possible could someone possibly tell me a POP3 server that I can use for free seeing as in I can't do crap from where I am at and I am on a LAN. TIA