Two Step Verification LinkedIn: How to Turn It On

Updated 5 November 2026 · Standard formula, shown below

Two-step verification on LinkedIn is a security feature that requires a one-time code in addition to your password when you sign in. You can turn it on in your LinkedIn settings under the “Sign in & security” section, and it takes about two minutes to set up. This article explains exactly how to enable it, what happens after you do, and answers common questions about the process.

Why LinkedIn Offers Two-Step Verification

LinkedIn accounts hold professional history, connections, messages, and sometimes payment details for premium subscriptions. A stolen password alone can give an attacker access to all of that. Two-step verification (also called two-factor authentication or 2FA) adds a second check: something you know (your password) plus something you have (your phone). Even if someone gets your password, they still need the code from your phone to get in.

LinkedIn began offering this feature years ago, and it has become standard practice for most major online services. The company has also reported that accounts with 2FA enabled are significantly less likely to be compromised, though they do not publish exact figures. For most users, the main benefit is peace of mind: a stolen password alone is no longer enough to take over your account.

How Two-Step Verification Works on LinkedIn

Once enabled, the login flow looks like this:

You enter your email or phone number and password.
LinkedIn asks for a verification code.
You get the code from one of your chosen methods (text message, authenticator app, or security key).
You enter the code and you’re signed in.

LinkedIn also offers a “remember this device” option. If you check that box, you won’t be asked for a code again on that same browser for 30 days. This is a convenience feature, but it does slightly reduce security because anyone with access to that device and your password could get in without a code.

You can choose from three verification methods:

Text message (SMS): LinkedIn sends a 6-digit code to your mobile phone. This is the simplest option, but SMS can be intercepted in rare cases.
Authenticator app: Apps like Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, or Authy generate time-based codes on your phone. This is generally considered more secure than SMS because the code is generated locally and not sent over the network.
Security key: A physical USB or NFC device that you plug in or tap. This is the strongest option, but requires buying a separate device.

Step-by-Step: How to Enable Two-Step Verification

Here are the exact steps for the current LinkedIn interface (as of 2025):

Log in to LinkedIn on a desktop browser.
Click your profile picture in the top right corner.
Select Settings & Privacy from the dropdown.
In the left sidebar, click Sign in & security.
Scroll down to the Two-step verification section.
Click Turn on next to “Two-step verification.”
Enter your password again to confirm.
Choose your preferred method: text message, authenticator app, or security key. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Once you’ve verified your method works, LinkedIn will show a confirmation message. You’re done.

If you’re using the LinkedIn mobile app, the steps are similar: tap your profile photo, tap Settings, then tap Sign in & security, and find the two-step verification option.

What Happens If You Lose Your Phone?

Losing your phone after enabling 2FA can lock you out of your account. LinkedIn provides backup options to prevent this:

Backup codes: When you enable 2FA, LinkedIn gives you a set of one-time backup codes. Write these down and store them somewhere safe. Each code works only once, and you can use them to sign in if you don’t have your phone.
Recovery email: If you have a recovery email on file, LinkedIn may send a verification link there as a last resort.
Trusted devices: If you previously checked “remember this device,” you might still be able to access your account from that device and turn off 2FA.

If you lose your phone and don’t have backup codes, you’ll need to go through LinkedIn’s account recovery process. This can take days and requires proving your identity by providing your email, phone number, and possibly a government ID. It’s much easier to save those backup codes now.

Common Problems and How to Fix Them

Here are the most common issues people run into with LinkedIn 2FA and what to do:

Not receiving SMS codes: Check that your phone number is correct in settings. Make sure you have cell service and that your carrier isn’t blocking shortcodes. Try switching to an authenticator app instead.
Authenticator app not working: Ensure your phone’s time is set to automatic. Time-based codes rely on accurate clocks. If the code is still wrong, delete the LinkedIn entry from your authenticator app and re-add it using the QR code from LinkedIn’s settings.
Can’t find the two-step verification setting: Some accounts, especially those created with an email that hasn’t been verified, may not see the option. Verify your email first. Also, make sure you’re looking under “Sign in & security,” not “Account preferences.”
Code says invalid but it’s correct: Codes expire after a short time (usually 30 seconds for authenticator apps). Try generating a new code and entering it immediately. Also, check that you’re entering the code for LinkedIn, not another account.

Is Two-Step Verification Enough?

Two-step verification is a big improvement over password-only security, but it’s not perfect. Here are a few additional steps you can take to protect your LinkedIn account:

Use a unique, strong password: Don’t reuse passwords from other sites. A password manager can help.
Keep your email secure: If an attacker can access your email, they can often reset your LinkedIn password and bypass 2FA. Enable 2FA on your email too.
Review active sessions: LinkedIn lets you see all devices that are currently logged in. Check this regularly and revoke any you don’t recognize.
Be cautious with third-party apps: Only authorize apps you trust. Malicious apps can sometimes access your profile data.

No security measure is 100% foolproof, but 2FA blocks the vast majority of automated attacks and casual hacking attempts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use two-step verification without a phone number?

Yes. You can use an authenticator app or a security key instead of SMS. An authenticator app runs on your smartphone or even a desktop app like Authy, so you don’t need to give LinkedIn your phone number. A security key is a physical device that plugs into your computer’s USB port or connects via NFC.

Does two-step verification slow down the login process?

It adds about 10-15 seconds to each login, but you can check “remember this device” to avoid entering a code for 30 days on trusted browsers. The extra time is worth the added security, especially if you use LinkedIn for job hunting or professional networking.

Can I turn off two-step verification later?

Yes. Go back to the same settings page and click “Turn off” next to two-step verification. You’ll need to enter your password to confirm. If you’re turning it off because you’re having trouble receiving codes, first try the troubleshooting steps above or use a backup code.

What if I’m already locked out of my account?

If you can’t get in, go to the LinkedIn login page and click “Forgot password?” to reset your password. If that doesn’t work, use the “Help” link to contact LinkedIn support. You’ll need to verify your identity, which may take a few days. Having backup codes or a recovery email on file speeds up the process.

Does LinkedIn offer two-step verification for business accounts?

Yes. LinkedIn Learning and Sales Navigator accounts are protected by the same two-step verification feature. The steps are identical, and administrators can even enforce 2FA for all members of their organization through the admin settings.

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.