By default, AOL Mail blocks access from outdated apps that could leave your account vulnerable. If we sent you an email indicating that your app is using outdated security protocols or you're unable to sign in from an older app, you still have several options available to you.
Use a secure option to access AOL Mail
- Use an app password.
- Use AOL Desktop Gold.
- Use the AOL Mail website: https://mail.aol.com
- Install the AOL app on your Android or iOS device.
- Keep your current application, but follow the steps below to ensure it's syncing with our secure sign-in method. Please note, not all third-party email apps are supported.
Continue using third-party mail apps securely
Use an app password
If you use AOL two-step verification or an older email app, you may need to use an app specific password to access AOL Mail. Learn how to generate third-party app passwords and remember, app passwords are only valid for the app they are created for and remain valid until you sign out or remove access to the app. At that time, a new password will need to be created.
More information on specific third-party platforms
If you prefer to continue accessing your AOL email on your current third-party email application, including the default email application on your mobile phone, please see details below on how to ensure it's syncing with the latest secure sign-in method.
Access mail via Apple iOS
Remove your AOL account and re-add it to the Apple email app on your mobile device. When you re-add the account, look for the AOL provider logo to trigger the secure sign in method.
Access mail via Apple Mail on Mac OS
Remove your AOL account and re-add it to Apple Mail on Mac. When you re-add the account, look for the AOL provider logo to trigger the secure sign in method.
Access mail via Gmail App on mobile
As of May 2020, Gmail does not support the Oauth2 secure sign-in method for AOL accounts. AOL members should generate and use a third-party app password to sign-in securely.
Access mail via Outlook.com
Use an app password for initial sign in. Learn how to generate third-party app passwords. For more info on how to connect accounts, go to Microsoft's help website.
- Go to Settings in the upper right | select Account Settings.
- At the bottom of the pane, select View all Outlook Settings.
- Select Mail | Sync Mail.
Access mail via Outlook Desktop
As of May 2020, Outlook Desktop does not support the Oauth2 secure sign-in method for AOL accounts. AOL members should generate and use a third-party app password to sign-in securely.
Access mail via Outlook for Mac
As of May 2020, Outlook for Mac does not support the Oauth2 secure sign-in method for AOL accounts. AOL members should generate and use a third-party app password to sign-in securely.
Access mail via Samsung Mail
Remove your AOL account and re-add it to the Samsung email app on your mobile device. When you re-add the account, look for the AOL logo to activate the secure sign-in method. For more info on how to connect accounts, go to Samsung's website.
- Open Android Settings.
- Tap Accounts and backup | Accounts.
- Remove existing email account then re-add.
- Tap Add account | Email.
- Tap the AOL logo to activate the secure sign-in method.
Access mail via Thunderbird
Remove your AOL account and set it up again in the Thunderbird email client. For more info on how to connect accounts, go to Thunderbird's website.
- Go to Tools | Account Settings.
- Select your account in the list.
- Go to Account Actions at the bottom left.
- Click Remove Accounts.
- Click Add Accounts and type in the email address and password.
-Thunderbird will then automatically activate the secure sign-in method for your account.
Access mail via Windows Mail
As of May 2020, Windows Mail does not support the Oauth2 secure sign-in method for AOL accounts. AOL members should generate and use a third-party app password to sign-in securely.
Access mail via Other Applications
- If possible, use the AOL app or mail.aol.com. Since AOL owns these services, we can ensure you're always using the most secure sign-in technology when accessing your email.
- If you'd prefer to continue using your non-AOL email application, try removing and re-adding your account. Look for the AOL logo when you go to set it up again to activate the secure sign-in method.
- If removing and re-adding your account does not work, generate a third-party app password to access your account.
Still need help? Call paid premium support at 1-800-358-4860 to get live expert help from AOL Customer Care.