> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.clearmyinbox.ai/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Connection keeps failing

> A checklist for when ClearMyInbox cannot connect to your mailbox: password type, IMAP access, two-factor authentication, server address and port.

Work through this list. Most failed connections are one of these.

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Are you using the right kind of password?">
    Many providers require an **app password**, not your normal sign-in password. If ClearMyInbox says your provider requires an app-specific password, follow the steps in [App passwords](/connect/app-passwords).
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Is IMAP access turned on?">
    Some providers turn IMAP off by default. Look in your email provider's settings for an option called "IMAP" or "Third-party access" and turn it on.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Do you have two-factor authentication turned on?">
    If you do, you almost certainly need an app password. Your normal password will not work while two-factor authentication is on.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Is the server address correct?">
    Check the IMAP server name. Common mistakes are using the `smtp` server (that one is for sending mail) in place of the `imap` server, and typing errors.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Is the port correct?">
    Port `993` is the standard port for a secure IMAP connection. If your provider uses a different port, enter it by hand.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Proton Mail: is Bridge running?">
    Proton Mail needs the Proton Mail Bridge app running on your computer. Start it, and use the Bridge password, not your Proton account password.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="A mailbox that worked before now says to reconnect">
    The access you gave has expired or was removed, for example after a password change. Open **Account**, find the mailbox under **Connected mailboxes**, and connect it again.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

Still stuck? Email [support@clearmyinbox.ai](mailto:support@clearmyinbox.ai) and tell us your email provider and the message you see. Never send us your password.


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