Few things are more frustrating than entering your details on the sign-in page and getting an error. If your Gmail login is not working, the cause is usually simple: a typo, a weak connection, or old browser data. Work through these seven fixes in order, starting with the quickest. Most people are back in their inbox within a few minutes.
1. Check Your Internet Connection
Gmail cannot verify your details without a stable connection. Open another website to confirm you are online. If pages are slow or fail to load, switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data, or restart your router. Then reload the Gmail sign-in page and try again.
2. Re-Enter Your Email and Password Carefully
Typos cause most sign-in errors. Type your full address, including @gmail.com, and check that Caps Lock is off. Click the eye icon to show your password as you type it. If you use a password manager, make sure it is not filling in an old, saved password.
3. Reset Your Password
If you are unsure of your password, choose Forgot password on the sign-in screen. Google will ask for the last password you remember or send a code to your recovery phone or email. Follow the prompts, then create a new password that is long and unique.
4. Clear Your Browser Cache and Cookies
Old stored data can block the sign-in page. In your browser settings, open Privacy and choose to clear browsing data. Select cookies and cached files, then clear them. Close the browser, reopen it, and go to the Gmail sign-in page again.
5. Try Another Browser or a Private Window
Extensions and saved settings can interfere with login. Open an Incognito or Private window and sign in there. If it works, one of your extensions is the culprit, so disable them one at a time. You can also try a different browser such as Chrome, Edge or Firefox, and make sure yours is up to date.
6. Check 2-Step Verification or Use Account Recovery
If Google asks for a verification code, check that your phone’s date and time are set automatically, because wrong time settings can break codes. If you cannot get the code, choose Try another way. For a locked account or one flagged for suspicious activity, use Google’s account recovery page and answer as many questions as you can from a device and location you normally use.
7. Update the App or Re-Add Your Account on Your Phone
On Android or iPhone, update the Gmail app from your app store. If it still fails, remove the account in your phone’s settings and add it again, then sign in with your password. Restarting the phone first can also clear temporary glitches.
Still Locked Out?
If you have made many attempts, wait a few hours, because Google may temporarily limit sign-ins. Then try again from a device you have used before. Keep your recovery phone number and email up to date, and turn on 2-step verification so future problems are easier to fix. Following these seven fixes in order solves most Gmail login problems quickly.