Outlook Setup

Outlook / Microsoft 365

Connect your Outlook.com or Microsoft 365 account using an App Password. Takes about 2 minutes.

You need an App Password

Microsoft won't accept your regular password. You'll create a special App Password that goes straight to your system keychain — secure and separate from your main login.

This works for Outlook.com, Microsoft 365, Office 365, and legacy Hotmail/Live accounts.

Create an App Password

First, you need two-step verification enabled. Most accounts have this already. If not, enable it at Microsoft Account Security.

Then create an App Password:

Go to account.microsoft.com/security
Under "App passwords", click Create a new app password
Copy the generated password

Microsoft 365 business accounts

Your admin may need to enable App Passwords or IMAP access. If the option isn't there, check with IT.

Add to Pontius

Run the Pontius TUI and add your account:

$ pontius

Select Add Account
Provider: outlook
Enter your display name and email address
Paste your App Password (it won't display)
Wait for "Account connected!"

Verify It Works

$ pontius list

You should see your recent emails. If you do, you're done.

Troubleshooting

Authentication failed

You're probably using your regular password. Use the App Password.
Make sure two-step verification is enabled first.
Generate a fresh App Password and try again.

IMAP not enabled

Outlook.com has IMAP enabled by default. If it's off:

Go to Outlook.com → Settings → View all Outlook settings
Mail → Sync email
Enable IMAP

App Passwords option not showing

Enable two-step verification first.
Microsoft 365 users: your admin may need to enable this.