Also: How to set up two-factor authentication (2FA) and for what The problem with 2FA is that third-party apps aren’t always set up to authenticate with the added layer of security. That means that when you have 2FA enabled for your Google account, connecting a third-party application or service won’t work. So Google created a feature to get around this problem, called App Passwords. An app password is a password that is generated so that a third-party app can connect to your Gmail account. You then use it instead of your Google account password when using that app. It really is that simple. And for anyone who’s added 2FA to their Google accounts (which you most certainly should), the App Passwords feature is a necessity for connecting third-party apps and services. Also: How to keep your Android lock screen from showing sensitive notifications I’m going to show you how to use the App Passwords feature to generate an app password for Gmail. Just remember, this is only required if you have 2FA enabled for your Google account and if you need to connect a third-party app or service to Gmail. If you’re not in that situation, you don’t need to do this.
Requirements
To create an app password, you’ll need a valid Gmail account. I’ll assume you do have 2FA enabled and are looking to connect an app to Gmail.
Creating an app password for Gmail
It’s very important to understand that these app passwords can only be viewed once. After clicking DONE, you won’t be able to view the password again, which is why it’s important to copy the password and use it immediately. I would suggest not clicking DONE until you know the app password works for the app or service you want to connect to your Gmail. Also: The best LastPass password manager alternatives If you disconnect an app or service from Gmail, you should also delete the app password by clicking the associated trash can icon in the App Passwords listing. It’s always better to be safe than sorry. And that’s all there is to creating a Gmail app password. If you don’t already have 2FA enabled for Gmail, I would highly recommend you do so.
