How to Set Up Email on a New Phone or Computer
The exact screens differ by app, but the underlying steps are the same everywhere. This covers the general process — see our client-specific guides for exact screenshots if you get stuck.
Before you start, have ready:
- Your full email address.
- Your password — or, if you use two-factor authentication, be ready to approve a prompt or generate an app password (see our app passwords explainer).
- Access to your phone or authenticator app if two-factor verification is required during setup.
1. Open the mail app and choose "Add Account"
On most phones this is in Settings → Mail/Accounts, or directly inside the mail app itself under Settings → Add Account.
2. Select your provider
Most apps show quick-setup buttons for Gmail, Outlook/Office 365, Yahoo, and iCloud — pick yours if listed, since it handles the technical settings automatically.
3. Sign in
You'll be taken to your provider's own sign-in screen (this is normal and safer than entering your password directly into a third-party app). Complete any two-factor prompt if asked.
4. Choose what to sync
Most apps let you choose to sync Mail only, or also Contacts and Calendar. Toggle on whatever you want available on this device.
5. Manual setup (if your provider isn't listed)
For a provider without a quick-setup option (a work email, a smaller provider, or a custom domain), you'll need to enter server settings manually. Your provider or IT department should be able to supply:
- Incoming server (IMAP) address and port
- Outgoing server (SMTP) address and port
- Whether SSL/TLS is required (almost always yes)
Something not working?
Check our troubleshooting guides for the specific client and problem you're running into.