Yahoo SMTP Settings
Anant Gupta
Look. Your time is valuable. You don’t want to read a novel about email settings. You just want your Yahoo mail to work.
I get it.
Here’s what you need to know: Yahoo SMTP settings are simply instructions that tell your email app how to send messages. Get them right, and everything works. Get them wrong, and… well, you know why you’re here.
I’ve spent the last decade watching people struggle with these settings. The truth is, it’s not rocket science.
The real problem? Most guides overcomplicate things.
This guide is different.
No fluff. No filler. No “let me tell you about the history of email.” Just clear, precise instructions to get your email working.
You’re probably here because something’s not working. Let’s fix that.
Ready?
SMTP Port settings for Yahoo Mail
Yahoo SMTP settings allow you to send emails from your Yahoo Mail using different apps or devices. SMTP, which stands for Simple Mail Transfer Protocol, is like the digital postal service that ensures your messages reach their destination.
Basic SMTP Configuration:
- Server: smtp.mail.yahoo.com
- Port: 465 (with SSL) or 587 (with TLS)
- Security Type: SSL/TLS (Choose SSL for port 465, and TLS for port 587)
- Authentication: Yes, requires authentication
- Username: Your complete Yahoo email address (example@yahoo.com)
- Password: Your Yahoo account password or App Password if you use 2-factor authentication
Important Security Note:
If you have two-factor authentication enabled on your Yahoo account (recommended for security), you’ll need to generate an App Password. Your regular Yahoo password won’t work for SMTP connections. You can create an App Password in your Yahoo Account Security settings.
Compatibility:
These settings work with most email clients including:
👉Outlook
👉Apple Mail
👉Thunderbird
👉Mobile email apps
Troubleshooting Tip: If you’re having connection issues, double-check that you’ve selected the correct security type (SSL/TLS) matching your chosen port number.
Yahoo Mail Server Settings (Complete Guide)
Here are all the connection settings you need for your Yahoo email account:
SMTP Settings (for sending email):
- Server: smtp.mail.yahoo.com
- Port: 465 (SSL) or 587 (TLS)
- Security: SSL/TLS required
- Authentication: Yes
- Username: Your full Yahoo email address
- Password: Your App Password or account password
IMAP Settings (for receiving email – recommended):
- Server: imap.mail.yahoo.com
- Port: 993
- Security: SSL/TLS required
- Username: Your full Yahoo email address
- Password: Your App Password or account password
POP Settings (alternative receiving method):
- Server: pop.mail.yahoo.com
- Port: 995
- Security: SSL/TLS required
- Username: Your full Yahoo email address
- Password: Your App Password or account password
Important Note: IMAP is generally recommended over POP because it syncs your email across all devices. With POP, emails are typically downloaded and removed from the server.
Security Reminder: If you have two-factor authentication enabled, you’ll need to use an App Password instead of your regular Yahoo password for any of these connections.
Creating a Yahoo App Password - Quick Guide
Need to set up your email on a new device? Yahoo uses App Passwords as an extra security measure when connecting email clients. Here’s how to get one:
1️⃣ Visit your Yahoo Account Security page
2️⃣Look for the “Account Security” section
3️⃣Find and click “Generate app password”
4️⃣Give your password a name (like “iPhone Mail” or “Outlook”)
5️⃣Click “Generate” and save the password somewhere safe
Pro Tip: You’ll only see this password once, so make sure to copy it before closing the window. It’s a unique 16-character code that’s more secure than using your regular Yahoo password.
Important: You’ll need different App Passwords for each email client or device you’re using. Think of them as special keys for each of your email “doors.”
Remember: This is a one-time setup – once you’ve entered the App Password in your email client, you shouldn’t need to generate another one unless you’re setting up a new device.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why isn't my Yahoo email sending messages?
Most common causes are:
- Incorrect password (especially if using 2FA without an App Password)
- Wrong port number
- SSL/TLS not enabled
- Server name typo (smtp.mail.yahoo.com)
Do I need an App Password for Yahoo SMTP?
Yes – if you have two-factor authentication enabled (which most accounts do now), you must use an App Password instead of your regular Yahoo password.
Which is better - Port 465 or 587?
Port 465 with SSL is generally recommended for modern email clients. Port 587 with TLS is a reliable alternative if 465 doesn’t work.
Why am I getting "Authentication Failed" errors?
Usually because:
- You’re using your regular password instead of an App Password
- Your username isn’t your complete email address
- Your account has been temporarily locked for security
Should I choose IMAP or POP3?
IMAP is recommended for most users because it syncs across all devices. Use POP3 only if you need to download and remove emails from Yahoo’s servers.
Why can I receive but not send emails?
This typically means your SMTP settings are incorrect while your IMAP/POP settings are working. Double-check your SMTP server name and port number.
How do I generate an App Password?
Go to Yahoo Account Security → Account Security → Generate App Password → Select your app → Create.
Is SSL/TLS encryption necessary?
Yes – Yahoo requires secure connections. Never disable SSL/TLS encryption, as this could compromise your account security.
What's the difference between SMTP and IMAP?
- SMTP is for sending emails
- IMAP is for receiving emails
