How to Fix Thunderbird Hangs on Checking Password Issue?

Introduction

Mozilla Thunderbird is a popular open-source email client known for its robust features, add-on support, etc. One common and frustrating issue users encounter is Thunderbird hanging or freezing at the “Checking Password” stage when trying to connect to their email accounts. This problem can disrupt workflows, cause missed emails, and leave users unsure whether the issue lies with Thunderbird, their email provider, or something else entirely.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the most common causes behind why Thunderbird hangs on Checking Password, ranging from misconfigured settings to server-side authentication issues. We’ll also provide step-by-step troubleshooting tips to help you get Thunderbird running smoothly again so you can get back to managing your emails without any obstacle.

What are the Reasons behind Thunderbird Hangs on Checking Password?

• Thunderbird relies on accurate configuration details. If these settings are wrong, even slightly, the program can get stuck trying to authenticate.
• It seems obvious, but a wrong password can prevent successful authentication.
• Email providers like Google, Yahoo, and Outlook often block sign-ins from apps like Thunderbird unless you generate and use an app-specific password.
• Security software may block Thunderbird’s connection to the mail server, especially if it scans outgoing/incoming ports or blocks encrypted traffic.
• A poor or restricted internet connection can cause issue in Thunderbird from reaching the mail server, leading to the hang.
• An old version of Thunderbird email client may not support latest authentication protocols like OAuth2.
• Profile corruption and misconfigured account files can cause Thunderbird to freeze during password verification.

Manual Methods to Fix Thunderbird Hangs on Checking Password

There are multiple manual solutions that can enable Thunderbird to work smoothly:

Method 1: Check and Overlook the Antivirus program’s Settings

1. Start by installing Windows Security on your computer.
2. Next, select Network Protection by clicking on Firewall.
3. Thereafter, choose the “Allow an app through the Firewall” option.
4. Check Thunderbird now, and confirm that both private and public networks are accepted.
5. Lastly, Thunderbird hangs on checking password issue is resolved if you restart your device.

Method 2: Update your Thunderbird Password

1. Launch Thunderbird, then select Tools option.
2. Select Privacy & Security after selecting Options.
3. Click the Saved Passwords button after selecting Passwords.
4. Check the Settings in the pop-up window, overlook the saved password, then click the Remove button.
5. After that, enter your password and restart the Thunderbird app.
6. This will resolve the Thunderbird hang error when checking the password.

Important Note: In order to login Gmail or Outlook account in Mozilla Thunderbird, users need app password

Method3: Use Safe Mode in Thunderbird

1. First, if Thunderbird is open, shut it off entirely.
2. In order to safely run Thunderbird, launch PowerShell.
3. After that, enter “thunderbird.exe -safe-mode.”
4. The impediments can then be disabled by pressing the Enter key.
5. Finally, Thunderbird will operate in safe mode, resolving the problem where it gets stuck when it tries to check the password.

Method4: Alter Authentication Settings

1. Open Thunderbird email client.
2. Now go with option Account Settings.
3. Select Server Settings, and now go with the Authentication method.
4. Execute changes in OAuth2 or Normal password settings, as per requirement.
5. Then select Outgoing Server SMTP and execute settings alteration.
6. Finally, restart the Thunderbird app with newly updated settings.

Are Manual Methods Feasible?

• Manual method is not at all a simple approach; users might need some technical skill in order to grasp the intricacies of the Thunderbird.
• It is not an ultimate method to fix the error, and does not give assurance to fix the error.
• The method is risky as far as the protection of data is concerned.
• Also, it is a time taking approach and that does not work instantly.  

Advanced Solution to Fix Thunderbird Hangs on Checking Password Issue

When Thunderbird repeatedly hangs during the “Checking Password” step, the problem might stem from corrupted profiles, damaged account settings, or incompatible add-ons. In such cases, starting fresh with a clean profile often resolves the issue but that means risking your existing emails, settings, and configurations.

BitData Migration Thunderbird Backup Tool is a dedicated Thunderbird backup tool that can save your emails, attachments, address books, account settings, and calendar data. This solution is a rational choice for backup Thunderbird to Gmail, Office 365, etc. And also allows converting Thunderbird emails to PDF, PST, EML, MSG, MBOX and many more. Let’s know the working steps to know how it works:

1. Firstly, to backup open Thunderbird Converter on PC.
2. Then add Thunderbird data, the data can be configured automatically or you can select files manually.
3. Now choose the saving option to backup data.
4. Fill credentials or choose saving path accordingly.
5. Lastly click on the Export option.

Read more

How to Fix Thunderbird UID Fetch Server Error

Fix “Thunderbird ImportExportTools NG is Not Working” Issue

Thunderbird Not Receiving Emails and Downloading Emails

Conclusion

Why Thunderbird hangs on Checking Password issue can be frustrating, especially when you rely on it for daily communication. Fortunately, most of the causes such as incorrect server settings, outdated authentication methods, antivirus interference, or corrupted profiles can be resolved with a bit of troubleshooting. And to keep your data more safe you can also opt for the mentioned automated solution that works on Windows and Mac Operating Systems.