Did you forget your password? Are you wondering whether accessing your Gmail account is even possible if you’ve lost your password? Knowing how to access Gmail without a password will come in handy.
We’ll explain below and give you the steps to access your Gmail account without a password. Sound good? Let’s get right into it!
Is it possible to access a Gmail account without password?
The good news is that, yes, you can access a Gmail account even if you’ve forgotten your password. There are four different ways. Google offers two-step verification and other methods to allow you to regain control of your account securely.
With two-step verification, you can set up an added layer to securely sign in to your Gmail account with the help of another device, usually a phone or a tablet. The bad news is that you have to set up two-step verification before you need it. This means that it has to be in place before you forget your password.
However, if you haven’t set up a two-step verification, you can still access your account in two different ways. We’ll explain these methods in detail below.
How to access a Gmail account without password
Step 1: Click “Forgot password” on sign-in screen
The first thing to do is to click ‘Forgot password’ in the sign-in window.
Step 2a: Confirm sign-in through phone or tablet
If you set up Gmail before losing your password, the first option is to sign in through your phone.
Click continue to use this method if you have your other device at hand.
Choose the device and click ‘Next’. Google will require permission to turn on your Bluetooth temporarily. It’ll then prompt you to scan a QR code with the device that you’ve set up with the passkey.
On scanning the QR code, Google will automatically sign you in and prompt you to update your password.
Step 2b: Get a verification code sent to your phone
You have another option if you don’t want to use the first method.
After you click ‘Forgot my password,’ click ‘Try another way’ in the first window.
Google will now give you more options. Pick the ‘Get a verification code’ option. It’s a good idea to check the last two digits to see if they correspond with your active mobile number.
You’ll be prompted to verify your phone number. After entering your mobile number, click ‘Send’.
You’ll be asked to enter the six-digit code Google sent to your phone. Enter the code, click ‘Next,’ and you’ll automatically be signed into your account. Google will again prompt you to update your password.
The above two options work if you’ve set up a two-step verification security. However, if you’ve not done that, the below methods will work for you.
Step 2c: Answer your security questions
If you haven't set up two-factor verification for your Gmail account or don't have access to your secondary device, answering security questions becomes a method for recovering the account.
Unlike two-factor authentication, which requires an additional device for verification, security questions rely on your memory of the personal details you provided during the account setup.
While it's convenient, it's crucial to choose security questions with answers that are easy for you to remember but difficult for others to guess. This maintains your account security. It’s also recommended to revisit the questions to keep your memory fresh so that you can recall the details instantly when the time comes.
Step 2d: Use your recovery email
This is an alternative route to accessing your Gmail account without a password. Gmail may prompt you to verify your identity by sending a code or link to a secondary email address you provided during account setup.
This recovery email allows you to receive a verification code or link, which, when entered or clicked, gives you access to your Gmail account.
Just like the last method, this method is also useful when you haven't enabled two-factor authentication or can't access your primary email or phone number associated with your account.
Step 3: Update password and continue to Gmail
All the above methods will lead you to a window that prompts you to update your password. With that, you can move on to Gmail. These are just alternate ways to sign into your Gmail account, and your password remains the primary mode of logging in. If you want to change your password later, learn how to update your Gmail password.
Learn everything about Gmail on the YAMM blog
If that was helpful, you’ll love the YAMM blog. The YAMM blog is brimming with tutorials and guides on Gmail tips and features and how to use them best to increase your productivity. If you like Gmail and want to get more out of it, head on over to the YAMM blog.