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How to Create an App Password in Microsoft 365

When multi-factor authentication (MFA) is enabled on your Microsoft 365 account, some older apps and devices that don’t support modern authentication may have trouble signing in. App passwords solve this by providing a one-time, auto-generated password that bypasses MFA for those specific apps.

Axio Networks Tip: App passwords are a legacy workaround. Where possible, update apps to modern authentication-compatible versions. We can help you audit your Microsoft 365 environment and phase out app passwords safely.


When Do You Need an App Password?

You may need an app password if you use:

  • Older versions of Outlook (2010 or earlier).
  • Email clients that use basic authentication (IMAP/POP3/SMTP).
  • Some third-party apps that connect to your Microsoft 365 account.

How to Create an App Password in Microsoft 365

  1. Sign in to your Microsoft account at myaccount.microsoft.com.
  2. Click Security Info in the left menu.
  3. Click + Add sign-in method.
  4. From the dropdown, select App password.
  5. Click Add.
  6. Give the app password a descriptive name (e.g., “Outlook 2010 Home PC” or “iPhone Mail App”).
  7. Click Next.
  8. Your new app password will be displayed. Copy it immediately — you won’t be able to see it again.
  9. Click Done.
    ✅ Use this app password in the app or device that requires it.

How to Use the App Password

  • In the app or device, enter your Microsoft 365 email as the username.
  • Use the app password (not your regular password) as the authentication credential.
    ✅ The app should now connect successfully without requiring MFA verification.

How to Delete an App Password

  1. Go back to myaccount.microsoft.comSecurity Info.
  2. Find the app password you want to remove.
  3. Click Delete.
  4. Confirm the deletion.
    ✅ The app password is revoked immediately.

Important Security Note

App passwords bypass MFA and should be treated like passwords — keep them private and delete them when no longer needed.


Need Help with Microsoft 365 MFA or App Passwords?

Axio Networks helps businesses manage MFA, app passwords, and modern authentication across Microsoft 365. We can help you identify legacy apps that need app passwords and plan a migration to more secure methods.
👉 Contact Axio Networks to secure your Microsoft 365 environment.

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