IMAP Server doesn't support Password authentication

Dear Angela Dimitriadis,

Thank you for reaching out to the Q&A Forum!

I understand you're trying to reconnect your Dad's Hotmail account to his iPhone 7 and are encountering an error message about password authentication. This is a common issue, and I can certainly guide you through the solution.

The error message "The IMAP server 'imap-mail.outlook.com' doesn't support Password authentication" indicates that the Mail app on the iPhone 7 is attempting to use an outdated security method. Newer versions of Outlook require a more secure authentication process, which older devices or software may not fully support.

The good news is that we can resolve this by generating a specific app password for the iPhone 7. An app password is a unique, one-time password that allows you to sign in to services and devices that don't support modern security protocols without compromising the security of the main account.

Step-by-Step Solution 

1. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): App passwords can only be generated on accounts with 2FA enabled. If it isn't already, please enable it on your Dad's Microsoft account. You can do this by going to the Microsoft account security page and logging in.
2. Generate the App Password: After enabling 2FA, navigate to the "Advanced security options" section on the same page. Look for the "App passwords" heading and click "Create a new app password." Microsoft will generate a long, random password for you. Please copy or write this down, as you will only see it once.
3. Add the Account to the iPhone 7: On your Dad's iPhone 7, open the Mail settings and begin the process of adding a new account. When prompted for the password, enter the app password you just generated, not your Dad's regular Hotmail password.

This process will allow the iPhone 7 to connect to Outlook's servers securely using the new app password, while the main account remains protected with two-factor authentication.

Please let me know how these suggestions work for you, or if you require further assistance.

Warm regards, 

Kal Duong | Microsoft Q&A Support Specialist

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