2.24.2.8.2. Setting up authentication correctly in the Mail app (macOS)

When a mail client connects to a mail server to receive or send mail, authentication is used for security purposes. There are different authentication methods. One of the options could be CRAM-MD5 or APOP, which are currently outdated and insecure. Here's how to check your current settings and set up a more modern and secure authentication method.

Procedure

  1. Launch the Mail app.
  2. In the top menu, click "Mail → Settings":
  3. In chapter "Accounts" on the left, select the account you need, switch to the tab "Server settings" and check the settings:
    • Incoming mail:
      • "Configure connection parameters automatically" - the check mark should be removed.
      • Connection security:
        • When using IMAP (above is "Incoming mail server (IMAP)"):
          • For an encrypted connection — specify the port 993 and check the box next to "Use TLS / SSL".
          • For unencrypted connection — specify the port 143 and uncheck the box opposite "Use TLS / SSL".
        • When using POP3 (above is indicated "Incoming mail server (POP)"):
          • For an encrypted connection — specify the port 995 and check the box next to "Use TLS / SSL".
          • For unencrypted connection — specify the port 110 and uncheck the box opposite "Use TLS / SSL".
      • "Authentication" — meaning necessarily should be "Password".
    • Outgoing mail ("Outgoing mail server (SMTP)"):
      • "Configure connection parameters automatically" - the check mark should be removed.
      • Connection security:
        • For an encrypted connection — specify the port 465 and check the box next to "Use TLS / SSL".
        • For unencrypted connection — specify the port 25 or 2525 and uncheck the box opposite "Use TLS / SSL".
      • "Authentication" — meaning necessarily should be "Password".
  4. Click "Advanced IMAP settings":
  5. Make sure to check the box next to "Allow insecure authentication":
  6. Save your changes and test your mail.
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