AOL Mail not Syncing With Windows 10: 7 Methods to Force It

Author: Customer Service

AOL Mail Not Playing Nice with Windows 10? Here's the Fix

Is your AOL Mail refusing to sync on Windows 10? It's a pretty common headache, especially after updates. The good news? It's usually fixable.

Here are some things to try to get your AOL Mail syncing with Windows 10 again. Not getting emails can be a pain and mess with your workflow.

Why's AOL Mail Acting Up?

AOL Mail might be stubborn about syncing for a few reasons. Knowing why helps you nail the fix.

  • AOL Login Changes:** AOL updated its login system (OAuth 2.0), which some older email programs don't like.
  • Wrong Server Info:** Old IMAP/SMTP settings can mess things up.
  • Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):** 2FA boosts security, but it can block apps like Windows Mail.
  • Firewall/Antivirus:** Your security programs might be overprotective and block the Mail app.
  • Proxy/VPN:** These network settings could be interfering with the Mail app's connection to AOL.
  • Account Problems:** Old passwords or corrupt data can cause sync issues.
  • Outdated Software:** Old Windows or Mail apps might not jive with AOL's current setup.

7 Ways to Force AOL Mail to Cooperate with Windows 10

Try these steps one by one until things work:

1. **Double-Check AOL Server Settings:**

Make sure you're using the correct IMAP/SMTP settings in Windows Mail:

  • Incoming Mail (IMAP):**
  • Server: imap.aol.com
  • Port: 993
  • Encryption: SSL
  • Outgoing Mail (SMTP):**
  • Server: smtp.aol.com
  • Port: 465 or 587
  • Encryption: SSL

Use your full email address (like example@aol.com) as your username.

2. **Temporarily Turn Off Two-Factor Authentication:**

2FA can block Windows Mail from accessing your account.

1. Log in to your AOL account on a web browser.

2. Go to Account Security> Two-Factor Authentication.

3. Turn it off for now.

  • Important:** Turn 2FA back on after you check if syncing works. Leaving it off makes your account less safe.

3. **Re-add Your AOL Account:**

Sometimes, bad account info messes up syncing.

  1. Open Windows Mail> go to Settings> Manage Accounts.
  2. Pick your AOL account and hit Delete account.
  3. Restart the Mail app and add your account again with the correct settings.
  4. Check Firewall and Antivirus Settings:**

Security programs might be blocking the Mail app.

1. Turn off your firewall/antivirus for a sec to see if syncing starts working.

2. If it does, add an exception for the Mail app:

1. Open Windows Security> Firewall & network protection.

2. Click Allow an app through firewall.

3. Make sure Mail and Calendar is allowed for both private and public networks.

5. **Update Windows and the Mail App:**

Old software might be missing the needed fixes.

1. Go to Windows Settings> Update & Security> Windows Update.

2. Look for updates and install any you find.

3. Open the Microsoft Store and check for Mail app updates.

6. **Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter:**

Windows has a built-in tool to fix app issues.

1. Open Settings> Update & Security> Troubleshoot.

2. Pick Windows Store Apps> Run the troubleshooter.

3. Follow the instructions on the screen.

7. **Use an App Password (If 2FA is On):**

If you use two-factor authentication, create a special app password for Windows Mail.

  1. Log in to your AOL account online.
  2. Go to Account Security> App Passwords.
  3. Create a password.

Tips to Keep Things Syncing Smoothly

  • Update Windows and the Mail app often.
  • If using 2FA, create a new app password and use it in Windows Mail.
  • Make sure your server settings match the latest AOL requirements.
  • Use IMAP instead of POP3 to keep syncing across devices.
  • Don't disable security features for good. Set up exceptions instead.

Why Did AOL Suddenly Stop Syncing?

AOL switched to OAuth 2.0 for better security, which isn't friendly with older programs. Old server settings or software can also be the culprit.

Common Questions

1. **Can I use AOL Mail without the Windows Mail app?**

Yep. Use AOL Mail on web browsers (like Chrome, Edge) or other email programs (like Outlook, Thunderbird) with the correct IMAP/SMTP settings.

2. **How do I turn on SSL for AOL Mail in Windows 10?**

In your account's advanced settings, turn on Require SSL for incoming and outgoing email. Use ports 993 (IMAP/SSL) and 465 (SMTP/SSL).

3. **What if none of these steps work?**

It could be an issue with your account or an AOL server problem. Call AOL Customer Support (1-800-358-4860) or Microsoft Support for help.

4. **Is AOL getting rid of third-party app support?**

AOL hasn't said they're stopping support, but they suggest using app passwords or OAuth 2.0 for security. Some older programs might struggle.

In a Nutshell

Fixing AOL Mail sync hiccups on Windows 10 usually involves some careful troubleshooting. Start by checking server settings, tweaking authentication, and updating software.

Keeping your software up-to-date and settings correct will help prevent future headaches. If problems continue, use AOL's website or create those app passwords.

  • Important:** Turn security features like 2FA back on after troubleshooting to keep your account safe! If you're still stuck, reach out to AOL or Microsoft for help.