When you're setting up your Gmail account on a third-party desktop email client or creating a shortcut, you'll have to provide your email address and password. You'll need to sign in to your Gmail account via a browser first, though. So, let's go over the steps you need to do so: 1. Go to the official Gmail page using any browser. 2. Enter your Google account email address. Alternatively, you can use your phone number if it’s registered to your Google account. 3. Enter your password, too. If you have set up 2-factor authentication, you'll receive a code via SMS that you'll need to enter as well. In case you’ve forgotten your email address or password, Google provides several troubleshooting options.