An App Password lets an email tool sign in to your Gmail account without using your normal password. It's a 16-digit code that works for one purpose, and you can revoke it at any time.
Before you start
You need 2-Step Verification turned on for your Google Account. App Passwords don't exist without it.
Create the password
- Sign in to the Google Account you want to connect.
- Turn on 2-Step Verification under Security, if it isn't on already.
- Open the App Passwords page in your Google Account settings.
- Type a name you'll recognize, such as the tool's name, and create it.
- Copy the 16-digit code and paste it into your email tool's password field.
Google shows the code once, so copy it before closing the window.
If the option is missing
Google says App Passwords may not be available if:
- 2-Step Verification is set up with security keys only
- You're signed in to a work, school or other organization account
- Advanced Protection is turned on
On a Google Workspace account, your administrator controls this. If you can't see the option, ask them.
What breaks an App Password
Changing your Google Account password revokes every App Password on the account. If a tool suddenly can't connect after a password change, create a new one.
Keep it safe
- Create a separate App Password for each tool, so you can revoke one without affecting the others.
- Treat it like a real password. Don't paste it into shared documents.
- Remove any you no longer use.