If you’re trying to set up Gmail with third-party apps like Outlook, Moodle, or any other service that requires SMTP, IMAP, or POP, you may need to use an App Password instead of your regular Google password. However, finding the option can be tricky, especially since Google has made changes to account security settings.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of creating an App Password for Gmail, even if you don’t initially see the option in your Google account.

What is an App Password?

An App Password is a unique 16-character passcode that allows less secure apps or devices to access your Google account without exposing your main password. This is necessary for apps that don’t support Google’s more secure OAuth authentication method.

Step 1: Enable 2-Step Verification

Before you can generate an App Password, you must first enable 2-Step Verification in your Google account.

  1. Go to Google Account Security
  2. Scroll down to the “How you sign in to Google” section.
  3. Click on 2-Step Verification and follow the setup process if it is not already enabled.
  4. Once enabled, return to the Security page.

Step 2: Generate an App Password

Now that 2-Step Verification is enabled, follow these steps to create an App Password:

  1. Open the App Passwords page using this direct link: https://myaccount.google.com/apppasswords
  2. If prompted, enter your Google account password to verify your identity.
  3. Enter the App name and Click on create
  4. Go ahead and use it for your application for example Moodle setup to send outgoing emails

Share this post