App-specific password not working for email or other apps
App-specific passwords are special passwords created for apps that don't support two-factor authentication directly. Generate a new one from your account's security settings, copy it carefully (including any spaces), and paste it into the app. Don't type your regular password — it won't work in apps that need app-specific passwords.
When you have two-factor authentication turned on, some apps (like email clients or older desktop apps) can't handle the two-factor step. You need to generate a special 'app-specific password' from your account settings and use that instead of your regular password. If the old one stopped working, generate a new one. They stop working when you change your main password or revoke them.
- ✓Have your account email and main password ready if you need to log in to your account security settings
- ✓Know which app you're trying to connect and whether it accepts app-specific passwords
- ✓Have access to a browser where you can log in to your account security settings
Fix-IT-Bot will walk you through each step, just tap, no typing needed.
Skip, I just want a technicianCommon mistakes to avoid
- Typing the regular account password in the app instead of the app-specific one
- Missing the spaces in the generated password — they're part of it
- Closing the password generation page before copying the password — you can't see it again
Signs you need professional help
- If you've generated a new app-specific password and the app still won't accept it after trying a few times, give us a call and we'll help troubleshoot.
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