Error when trying to add an email account in Thunderbird version 115.7.0
Error when trying to add an email account in Thunderbird version 115.7.0
As indicated in the subject line, I am unable to attach an email account to Thunderbird. This issue began when attempting to add a new email; however, while trying to fix it, I removed some previously functioning accounts and now cannot reinsert them. I have tested on both Windows 10 and Windows 11 across various laptops using Thunderbird version V.115.7.0. Additionally, I've experimented with Epyrus. If you have recommendations for free email clients, I would appreciate your feedback as I am tired of depending on webmail from different providers.
To clarify, in Thunderbird (and similar clients), when configuring an account, it requires an email address, a username, a password linked to the ISP's mail servers, a network server name, a port number, and a security protocol. These details are checked for both incoming (IMAP/POP3) and outgoing (SMTP) services. After entering these in Thunderbird, it verifies them against the domain associated with the email address at the ISP's servers, either confirming validity or reporting an error. If an error occurs, I correct the information and resubmit. If not, I simply click DONE and let Thunderbird validate the credentials.
I have repeated this process numerous times without success. I've even tried copying and pasting passwords and server details to prevent mistakes. This issue persists across all email servers I use: gmail, my ISP (Astound), and IONOS.
Since I receive a green light after testing the server variables, I am fairly confident the problem lies in the credential verification step. I believe the credentials provided are correct because I copy-paste the same data from trusted sources to access these services successfully.
I have been struggling with this for weeks. Posts on the Mozilla Support Forums have not offered a solution. Service providers often blame Thunderbird and provide no support for it. I have removed the app, reinstalled fresh versions, but the problem remains unresolved.
As someone who started with private networks in the 1970s—before TCP/IP and packet switching—I still have some understanding of the protocols. My guess is that Thunderbird first validates the data, then sends a test message to the server. The server replies with a success or failure message, which Thunderbird interprets, showing either a green light or an error (e.g., invalid variable). When the server is greenlit, I click DONE. Then Thunderbird sends a message to the domain associated with the email address (such as gmail, Astound, or IONOS). The domain servers perform the credential check and return a pass/fail result to Thunderbird. Finally, Thunderbird displays a summary of the outcome.
I have been dealing with this problem for so long now that I might be fixating on one thing and missing the rest. If anyone has suggestions or alternative approaches, I would greatly appreciate it. I have already verified that all server configuration details are correct and properly entered.
Can't cover everything, but for Gmail I just installed two new machines, changed my Gmail to IMAP, and created a special password for Thunderbird through your gmail account — it's different from your regular web login for security reasons.
Visit your gmail account, go to security, 2-step verifications, then scroll down to the bottom where it mentions app passwords. Type in Thunderbird and you'll receive the correct password to use with that program.
This is the current method to configure Gmail in Thunderbird — the section about app-specific passwords is essential for it to function properly. This setup is newer, though older configurations can still work if set up earlier; otherwise, you need to adjust accordingly.
I'm just revisiting this matter; I've been using IMAP since it became functional.
Quote: "Go into your gmail account, security, 2 step verifications, and then scroll to the bottom where it says app passwords, type in Thunderbird and it will give you the password to use with that program."
I'm not sure what the above means. I didn't need to apply 2-step authentication for my Gmail logins—just username and password. That led me to the webmail sections. I don't see any links for security or app passwords. Could you clarify how you're supposed to navigate?