Incorrect password error while connecting a personal Microsoft account via IMAP connector

We are getting Wrong email or password provided error while connecting a personal Microsoft account via IMAP connector. we have enabled 2fa on Microsoft as well.

Note: We have cross checked the multiple times there is no issue with the creds

Hi adilnovus,

Based on your Microsoft IMAP authentication error, this is a common issue with Office365/Outlook.com accounts that have Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) enabled.

Root Cause
The “Wrong email or password provided” error usually occurs because 2FA is enabled on your Microsoft account. This blocks basic authentication when connecting Office365 accounts to third-party applications. Microsoft requires either the use of app passwords or OAuth for these scenarios.

Solution Steps

  1. Enable Two-Factor Authentication

    • Go to your Microsoft account security settings

    • Turn on two-step verification

    • Complete the setup process

  2. Generate an App Password

  3. Use App Password for Authentication

    • When configuring your IMAP connection (e.g., with Nylas), replace your account password with the app password.

    • Example configuration:

      • IMAP Host: imap-mail.outlook.com, Port: 993

      • SMTP Host: smtp.live.com, Port: 587

Alternative Approach (Recommended)
Instead of basic authentication with app passwords, Microsoft recommends using OAuth via an Azure app integration. This provides stronger security and is more reliable in the long run.

Important Notes

  • Always use the exact app password generated by Microsoft.

  • If you are unable to enable 2FA or generate app passwords, contact your email administrator.

  • For future-proofing and compliance with Microsoft’s requirements, OAuth is the best approach.

I hope this helps.

Thanks!

Hey thanks for getting back to us yes I have followed this hotmail auth and tried its still same.

Thanks for following up! I’ve created a Zendesk support ticket so our team can continue with a more in-depth investigation. You’ll hear from us directly through that ticket.

Hi Pracheta, any update for us?

Thanks for checking in. Since we’ve already created a Zendesk support ticket for your case, we’ll continue the investigation there. The forum is limited for sharing account-specific details, so please reply directly on that ticket and our team will assist you further.

Thanks for your patience!