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How to Get My Gmail 16-Digit App Password

GreenSketch avatar
Written by GreenSketch
Updated over 2 weeks ago

1. What Is an App Password?

An app password is a 16-digit passcode that allows an application or device to access your Google Account securely when it doesn’t support 2-Step Verification. It is required for many third-party mail clients or systems that send emails using your Gmail account.


2. Before You Start

Make sure you have:

  1. Your Google (Gmail) account

  2. 2-Step Verification enabled

⚠️ Note: App passwords are only available after you turn on 2-Step Verification.


3. Turn On 2-Step Verification (If Not Enabled Yet)

  1. Sign in to your Google Account: https://myaccount.google.com/

  2. Go to “Security” on the left menu

  3. Find “Signing in to Google”

  4. Click “2-Step Verification”

  5. Follow the prompts to complete the setup


4. Generate Your 16-Digit App Password

  1. Visit the App Passwords page: https://myaccount.google.com/apppasswords

  2. Re-enter your Google Account password if prompted

  3. Under “Select app”, choose the application type, or select “Other (Custom name)”

  4. Under “Select device”, choose the device

  5. Click “Generate”

  6. A 16-digit app password will appear, e.g.:

    abcd efgh ijkl mnop
  7. Copy this password and paste it into your email application where it asks for your Gmail password

⚠️ Important: The app password is shown only once, so copy it immediately.


5. FAQ

  1. I enabled 2-Step Verification but cannot see “App Passwords”. Why?

    Possible reasons:

    • You are using a Google Workspace / company-managed account with restrictions

    • Your administrator has disabled app passwords

    • Advanced security features are enabled

    • App passwords are not permitted for your organization or region

  2. Is the app password the same as my Google Account password?

    No.

    • Your Google Account password is used for logging in

    • The app password is a one-time 16-digit code for third-party apps

  3. Can I revoke an app password?

    Yes.You can delete any app password from the same App Passwords page.

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