> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.buildvision.io/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Connect an inbox

> Let BuildVision read bid invitations from a mailbox for you.

When you connect a mailbox, BuildVision checks it every few minutes and picks up
new bid invitations without anyone forwarding anything.

<Note>
  BuildVision connects to **Microsoft 365 and Outlook** today. We're looking at
  direct connections for the other major providers. If you're on something else,
  tell us at [support@buildvision.io](mailto:support@buildvision.io) and in the
  meantime use [forwarding](/integrations/email/forwarding).
</Note>

## Connect your own inbox

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Email Settings">
    Select your name in the sidebar, then **Email Settings**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Connect">
    Choose to connect your email account and sign in to Microsoft. BuildVision
    asks only for the access it needs to read the mail it processes.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Confirm">
    Email Settings shows **Connected** with the address you connected.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Connect a shared mailbox

Most bid desks work out of a shared mailbox rather than a person's own inbox, so
BuildVision can read one on your behalf.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Connect your own account first">
    A shared mailbox is read through your account's access to it, so start with
    the steps above.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Set the target mailbox">
    In Email Settings, set the shared mailbox address on your connection.
    BuildVision then reads that mailbox instead of your own.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Note>
  Shared mailboxes are supported on Microsoft only. You need permission to the
  shared mailbox in Microsoft 365 before BuildVision can read it. If you don't
  have it, your Microsoft administrator grants it the usual way.
</Note>

## If the connection stops

Email Settings shows **Session expired** when Microsoft stops accepting the
connection, which usually follows a password change or a policy change on your
account. Reconnect from the same screen.

## Disconnect

Open **Email Settings** and disconnect. BuildVision stops reading the mailbox
immediately. Projects already created stay where they are.