Troubleshooting Mac Mail Configuration Authentication Errors: How to Add an Account

Adding a new account on your Mac Mail client can be a straightforward process, but sometimes you may encounter authentication errors. This article will guide you through the troubleshooting steps to resolve these issues and successfully add your Zoho Mail account.

Before we begin, make sure that your SSL is turned on for the SMTP server, and that the Outgoing Port Number is correct. You can check this by going to Mail > Preferences > Accounts > Advanced.

To start, ensure that you have entered the correct Incoming Server name and port number, which should be 993 with SSL turned on. Also, verify that your Incoming and SMTP Server names are accurate.

Often, connection errors occur when the server details are incorrect. If this is the case, contact your email administrator for more information. Additionally, if you are part of an organization, your administrator may have restricted access via IMAP to your account. In this instance, generate an Application Specific Password and use it for TFA-enabled accounts.

Next, check if Two Factor Authentication (TFA) is enabled on your Zoho Mail account. If IMAP Status is disabled, enable it and try again. If you encounter authentication errors, check your IMAP Status to resolve the issue.

To add a new account in Mac Mail, follow these steps:

1. Select Mail > Accounts > Click the + icon in the bottom right corner to add a new account.

2. Choose Other Mail Account, skipping the default options provided.

3. Enter the required details: Incoming Mail Server (for personal users, 'incoming-mail-server' for organization users who have their domains hosted with Zoho Mail), Password (your Zoho account password or Application Specific password if TFA is enabled), and User Name (your complete email address).

4. Select the Account Type and provide the Incoming and Outgoing server details.

5. Click Sign In and enter your configurations manually.

6. Specify your preferred Display Name, Email Address, and password.

7. Ensure that IMAP Access is enabled in the Zoho Mail interface by logging into Settings > Mail Accounts > IMAP Access and clicking the checkbox.

For best results, ensure that you have a good internet connection when configuring the account.

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully add your Zoho Mail account to your Mac Mail client.

Mac mail add account