I’m stuck trying to get my Outlook email to work with n8n. I’ve done all the usual stuff like turning on IMAP and POP, setting up two-factor auth, and making an app password. In n8n, I put in my email, the app password, and tried different SMTP settings (port 587, no SSL/TLS, STARTTLS on, and both outlook.com servers).
But it’s not working. I keep getting an error about basic auth being off. Any ideas on what I’m missing or what else to check in my Outlook account?
I’d really appreciate some help figuring this out. Thanks!
Have you tried using OAuth 2.0 for authentication instead of basic auth? Microsoft has been phasing out basic auth for SMTP connections, which could explain the error you’re seeing. To set this up in n8n, you’ll need to create OAuth 2.0 credentials in the Credentials section, then use those when configuring your Send Email node. Set the SMTP server to smtp-mail.outlook.com, port 587, disable SSL/TLS, and enable STARTTLS.
Alternatively, you might find it easier to use the dedicated Outlook node in n8n. It’s designed to work with Microsoft’s API and handles the OAuth process more smoothly. This approach could save you some headaches with SMTP configuration.
If you’re still having trouble, double-check that SMTP is actually enabled for your account in the Outlook settings. Sometimes it can get disabled without us realizing it.
I’ve been through this exact struggle with Outlook and n8n, and I feel your pain. What finally worked for me was switching to OAuth 2.0 authentication. Microsoft’s been phasing out basic auth, which explains the error you’re seeing.
Here’s what I did:
- Set up OAuth 2.0 credentials in n8n’s Credentials section.
- Used those credentials in the Send Email node.
- Set SMTP server to smtp-mail.outlook.com, port 587, SSL/TLS off, STARTTLS on.
It took some trial and error, but once I got it working, it’s been smooth sailing. If you’re still having trouble, double-check that SMTP is actually enabled in your Outlook settings. Sometimes it gets turned off without us noticing.
Alternatively, the Outlook node in n8n is a lifesaver if you’re sick of SMTP headaches. It handles the OAuth process much more gracefully. Might be worth a shot if you’re still stuck.
hey mate, have u tried using the outlook node in n8n instead? its way easier than messing with SMTP stuff. just add the node, connect with OAuth, and ur good to go. saved me a ton of headaches when i was setting up my workflow. give it a shot and lemme know if u need any help!