Can't set up new account - thunderbird set up process times out before 2FA code arrives for sign-in
Have got a replacement computer, and downloaded the latest TBird (having used it with AOL) for years). Following initial set up procedure, TB detects correct settings for AOL and the "enter password" page opens from AOL succcessfully for authorisation. AOL requires 2 factor authorisation, and I use a phone code for this.
However the speed at which the code arrives from AOL has always varied quite a bit, and today it is taking almost a minute so the TB set up screen is timing out long before the code arrives. Cant go on retrying as I will get locked out of the account. No point in going for manual set up as the auto settings are correct, so the same problem is going to occur. I have three AOL e-mail addresses to set up! Is there a workaround of some sort for this - its terribly frustrating and the set up screen "connect your e-mail settings" timeout period does seem quite short if you have to wait for a 2FA phone code or e-mail code - any delay in the arrival of which is completely ouside your control . Dave
All Replies (1)
re :AOL requires 2 factor authorisation,
It only requires it because you selected it. If you did not use third party email clients and only accessed AOL via webmail account using a browser then I would advise 2 step verification.
Access the webmail account and switch 2FA off. Depending upon which server you are using to access the AOL account, it requires different password set up.
Are you using the Incoming mail server (IMAP): imap.aol.com server setting ? If yes: Recent changes mean third party apps require you to create/generate a special app password. This is what AOL say on their website. If you use a 3rd-party email app to access your AOL Mail account, you may need a special code to give that app permission to access your AOL account. Please read Info:
Have you logged on to the webmail account and created/generated 'an app password' just to use in Thunderbird? If not, then logon to webmail account, disable/switch off 2FA and then generate the special app password which you can only use in Thunderbird. Use the special generated app password in Thunderbird instead of normal password.
Are you using the Yahoo server to access AOL account ?
If yes, then you would be using 'Authentication Method' = Oauth
Please read this info:
Use the 'normal password' (not an app generated password) when setting up account and granting Thunderbird access to the account which will then create the oauth token and save it in the stored passwords. Thunderbird will use that oauth token to get access.
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