Did You Know? Using Zimbra 2FA with other Mail Clients!

Did you know that if you enable Zimbra two-factor authentication (2FA) in your Zimbra account, you can still use other mail clients, such as Outlook and Thunderbird?

2FA is an extra layer of security for your email account. With 2FA enabled, to log into your Zimbra account, you need your password and a code generated by your smartphone.

Zimbra Connector for Outlook
If you enable 2FA on your Zimbra account and then try to access your account using Outlook for Windows (using Zimbra Connector for Outlook, a.k.a. ZCO), you will be prompted for the code from your smartphone each time you log in.

Zimbra Desktop 2FA Setup

Outlook for Mac and Thunderbird
If you enable 2FA on your Zimbra account and then try to access your account using Outlook for Mac or Thunderbird, you will need an Application Code. This is a code that you will use as a one-time password when using the other mail client.

To create an application code:
1. Click the Preferences tab.
2. Click Accounts.
3. Click Add Application Code.

Zimbra 2FA Setup

4. Enter the name of the application for which you are creating a code, and click Next.

Zimbra Thunderbird 2FA Setup

5. Use the application passcode provided as the password in Thunderbird or Outlook for Mac.

Zimbra Thunderbird 2FA Setup

The applications for which you have created application codes are displayed in the
Preferences > Accounts > area.

Zimbra Thunderbird 2FA Setup

Zimbra Two-Factor authentication requires an upgrade of your Network Edition License Key, which is free of charge if you have a valid License. Contact your regional sales manager, and click here for more information.

One Response to Did You Know? Using Zimbra 2FA with other Mail Clients!

  1. John August 23, 2016 at 11:48 PM #

    Useful post on Zimbra two-factor auth, thank you.

    Question, what will people on older connectors will see if they enable 2FA?

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