Self HelpBoise Computer Care

Email

Set up email on a new phone or computer

Set up email on a new phone or computer the easy way: use built-in account types, app passwords for 2FA, and IMAP for manual setups.

Difficulty
Easy
Time
10 min
Steps
6
Updated

Sounds like this?

  • New device, need email
  • Email app asks for server settings
  • 'Cannot verify account'

Step by step

  1. For Gmail, Outlook.com, iCloud and Yahoo, use the built-in account type (choose Google, Microsoft, etc.) instead of manual setup.
  2. iPhone: Settings › Apps › Mail › Mail Accounts › Add Account (older iOS: Settings › Mail › Accounts).
  3. Android: open Gmail app › profile picture › Add another account.
  4. Windows: Outlook app › Settings › Accounts › Add account. Mac: System Settings › Internet Accounts.
  5. If the provider uses two-step verification and the app doesn't support modern sign-in, create an app password in your provider's security settings.
  6. For ISP or business email (manual setup), get the IMAP and SMTP server names and ports from your provider and use IMAP, not POP, so mail syncs across devices.

Related error codes & messages

Quick answers

When should I stop and get professional help with "Set up email on a new phone or computer"?

Stop and get help if: Your provider requires settings you don't have. Old mail is stored only on an old PC (POP). Boise Computer Care can diagnose it for a $60 fee; call 208-996-3508.

How long does this fix take and how hard is it?

Plan on 10 min. Difficulty: Easy.

Is it safe to try this myself?

Mostly, if you follow these precautions: Only enter your password into the official mail app or your provider's sign-in page.

Which error messages or codes does this guide cover?

Cannot Verify Server Identity, Account Error, IMAP server not responding.

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