How to Add Gmail to Mozilla Thunderbird

Mozilla Thunderbird is a free, open-source email client that makes adding Gmail simple. In most cases, Thunderbird detects the correct server settings automatically — you only need your Gmail address and a password.

Step 1: Create a Google App Password (if using 2-Step Verification)

1. Go to myaccount.google.com → Security.
2. Under "How you sign in to Google", click 2-Step Verification.
3. Scroll to the bottom, click App passwords.
4. Name the app (e.g. "Thunderbird") and click Create.
5. Copy the 16-character password — use it in Step 2.

Step 2: Add Your Gmail Account in Thunderbird

1. Open Thunderbird. If it's new, the account setup wizard opens automatically. Otherwise, go to File → New → Existing Mail Account.
2. Enter your name, Gmail address, and your App Password (or regular Gmail password if no 2FA).
3. Click Continue. Thunderbird will search for Gmail's settings automatically.
4. Once found, select IMAP (recommended — keeps emails on the server) or POP3.
5. Click Done. Your Gmail inbox will appear in the sidebar.

Gmail Server Settings for Thunderbird

Tips

• Choose IMAP over POP3 — IMAP keeps your email synced across all devices.
• Thunderbird can also sync your Google Calendar with the Lightning add-on.
• If you see "Login to server failed", check that IMAP is enabled in your Gmail settings (Settings → See all settings → Forwarding and POP/IMAP).