How to set up App Passwords in Gmail

In light of Google’s decision to deprecate the “less secure apps” feature, we need an uncomplicated way to keep using Gmail as an SMTP server. App Passwords, unique one-time-use codes, offer an uncomplicated way of achieving this. They allow specific apps and devices to interact with your Gmail without exposing your main password. This approach keeps the interface simple and user-friendly, while retaining Gmail’s use as an SMTP server secure.

While OAuth is Google’s preferred approach to granting third-party apps secure access, there are cases where OAuth is not supported or practical, such as with certain email clients, older smartphones, or other applications that don’t provide a direct Google sign-in method. In these situations, App Passwords offer a secure alternative for accessing your Gmail account. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of setting up App Passwords in Gmail.

How to decide between OAuth and App Passwords on Gmail

When choosing an authentication mode for Gmail, it is essential to consider the security and compatibility of your apps and devices. The two primary

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Prerequisites

Before creating an App Password, ensure you have the following:

Enable 2-Step Verification in Gmail

1. Sign in to your Google Account at https://accounts.google.com/signin.
2. Go to the “Security” menu in the left sidebar.
3. Under “How you sign in to Google,” click on “2-Step Verification.”
4. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup.

![Screenshot of the 2-Step Verification setup process]

Decide which apps and devices you want to give App Password access

App Passwords are used for apps and devices that don’t support 2-Step Verification, such as email clients, older smartphones, and more.

Creating an App Password

Access App Passwords in Google Account settings

1. Sign in to your Google Account at https://accounts.google.com/signin.
2. In the search bar enter “App Passwords” and click the suggested dropdown.
3. Under “How you sign in to Google,” click on “App Passwords.”

Select app and device

1. Click on “Select app” and choose the desired app, or click on “Select device” and choose the specific device. You can select “Other (Custom name)” and enter your own description
2. Click on “Generate.”

Generate and store the App Password safely

1. A 16-character password will be generated.
2. Record the password and store it securely. You will not see the password again after clicking “Done”, so store or use the password immediately.
3. Click “Done” to close the window.

Using and Managing App Passwords

Enter App Password in the app or device

1. Open the app or device that requires the App Password.
2. Enter your Gmail address in the username field.
3. Enter the 16-character App Password in the password field.

Revoke an App Password if necessary

1. Go to the “App Passwords” section in your Google Account.
2. Locate the App Password you want to revoke.
3. Click the trash can icon next to it.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with App Passwords, consider the following:

• Make sure the App Password is entered correctly.
• Ensure the app or device supports App Passwords.
• Revoke and create a new App Password if necessary.

Conclusion

App Passwords offer an additional layer of security for your Gmail account beyond using your one, unique password.