Learn how to resolve the msmtp “cannot use a secure authentication method” error. Our Server Management Support team is here to help you with your questions and concerns.

msmtp cannot use a secure authentication method | Tips

Did you know that msmtp is a simple and easy-to-use SMTP client?

If you have been coming across the following error message while using msmtp, you have come to the right place.

Cannot use a secure authentication method

This error message often occurs when we try to set up msmtp to send emails via a secure authentication method like OAuth2 or 2FA.

According to our experts, this error message tells us that that msmtp is not configured. In other words, it does not have the required libraries or dependencies to support the secure authentication method.

Fortunately, we can easily resolve this issue with these steps:

1. First, check if the necessary libraries and dependencies are available on the system. In some cases, we may have to install additional packages or modules depending on the secure authentication method we want to use.
2. Next, ensure the authentication logins are correct. If we are using two-factor authentication, recheck the authentication code.
3. After that, check the settings in the msmtp configuration file. Then, ensure it has the correct authentication method, username, password, as well as server settings.
4. If the above tips do not help, try a different authentication method.

If none of the above troubleshooting tips help, try reinstalling msmtp and its dependencies. Our experts recommend downloading the latest version from the official website or package repository for our operating system.

Furthermore, some email providers require us to enable “less secure apps” or generate an app-specific password in order to use with msmtp. If our email provider is having trouble, we have to check their documentation or support resources to get information about configuring secure authentication methods with third-party email clients like msmtp.

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Conclusion

To conclude, our Support Techs took us through different troubleshooting tips to resolve the “cannot use a secure authentication method” error in msmtp.