How do I get the authenticator app for LinkedIn?

With the prevalence of cyber threats and hacking incidents, using two-factor authentication has become crucial for protecting your online accounts, including your LinkedIn profile. Enabling two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security beyond just a password. One of the most convenient ways to set up two-factor authentication for LinkedIn is by using an authenticator app.

What is Two-Factor Authentication?

Two-factor authentication, often abbreviated as 2FA, is a security mechanism that requires two forms of identity verification when logging into an account. The first factor is usually something you know, like a password or PIN. The second factor is something you have, like a physical security key or an authentication code from your phone.

By requiring two factors, even if hackers manage to learn your password, they won’t be able to access your account without also having your phone or security key that generates the secondary code. This significantly decreases the chances of your account being compromised.

How Does the Authenticator App Work?

An authenticator app generates timed one-time passcodes (OTPs) that you can use as your secondary verification code. When enabling two-factor authentication, you register your device with LinkedIn and scan a QR code to link your account to the app.

Once this is set up, whenever you log into LinkedIn, after entering your password it will prompt you for a 6-digit code. You open your authenticator app and it will display this code, which changes every 30 seconds. Enter it on LinkedIn and you’re logged in! It’s extremely quick and easy to use.

Benefits of Using an Authenticator App

Compared to other 2FA methods like SMS text messages, using an authenticator app has several advantages:

• No recurring fees – The app is free and doesn’t require a monthly subscription.
• Works offline – You can generate codes even without an internet connection.
• Secure encrypted backups – Your codes can be backed up securely.
• User-friendly – The apps are very easy to set up and use.

Popular Authenticator Apps

There are many excellent authenticator apps to choose from for iOS and Android devices:

Authy

Authy is a popular, user-friendly authenticator app that secures accounts from Twilio. It backs up your multi-device data in the cloud and enables you to recover codes if your phone is lost. Available for iOS and Android.

Google Authenticator

A simple and reliable app developed by Google. It generates codes even when offline. Available for iOS and Android.

Microsoft Authenticator

Microsoft’s official authenticator app has added security features like facial recognition and fingerprint login. Backs up your credentials encrypted in the cloud. Available for iOS and Android.

LastPass Authenticator

A free authenticator that conveniently integrates with the LastPass password manager. Available for iOS and Android.

1Password

A premium password manager that comes with its own built-in authenticator for two-factor authentication. Available for iOS and Android.

How to Set Up the LinkedIn Authenticator App

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to enable two-factor authentication for LinkedIn using an authenticator app:

1. Download and install a compatible authenticator app on your smartphone, like Google Authenticator.
2. Go to your LinkedIn account settings and select the Security tab.
3. Under Two-step verification, click Add authenticator app.
4. On the next screen, click Get Started.
5. Open your authenticator app on your phone and scan the QR code displayed on LinkedIn using the app’s scanner.
6. Once scanned successfully, your app will begin generating 6-digit authentication codes.
7. On LinkedIn, enter the code currently displayed in your authenticator app and click Verify.
8. Two-factor authentication using the authenticator app is now enabled for your account!

The next time you log into your LinkedIn account, after entering your password it will prompt for the latest authenticator code to complete logging in. The entire process takes just seconds.

Tips for Using the LinkedIn Authenticator App

Here are some useful tips when using two-factor authentication for LinkedIn with an authenticator app:

• Save your backup recovery codes – When you enable 2FA, LinkedIn will generate one-time backup codes. Save these codes in a secure place in case you ever lose access to your authenticator app.
• Link multiple devices – You can link the same LinkedIn account to multiple authenticator apps on different devices for redundancy.
• Keep your device time accurate – The codes are time-based, so ensure your device’s clock is set correctly.
• Protect your device – Keep your phone secure and use device locking to prevent unauthorized access.
• Re-scan if you get new device – If you switch phones, re-scan the QR code on LinkedIn to link your new phone.

What If You Lose Your Authenticator Device?

If you ever lose access to your authenticator app by getting a new phone or deleting the app, use the backup recovery codes you saved when initially setting up 2FA. Enter one of these codes on LinkedIn to log in.

Once logged in, you can re-enable two-factor authentication by scanning a new QR code and linking a new authenticator app device.

As a last resort, if you didn’t save your recovery codes, you will have to go through LinkedIn’s account recovery process to regain access to your account.

Disable Two-Factor Authentication

If you wish to disable two-factor authentication:

1. Log into your LinkedIn account using your password plus current authenticator code.
2. Go to your account settings and open the Security tab.
3. Under Two-step verification, click Remove authenticator app.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm and complete disabling 2FA.

However, it’s recommended to keep two-factor authentication enabled for your account security.

Conclusion

Using an authenticator app is an easy and secure way to enable two-factor authentication for LinkedIn. The added layer of account protection can help prevent your profile from being compromised. When choosing an authenticator app, look for one that is user-friendly, has good backup features, and works across multiple devices.

Enable two-factor authentication today using the LinkedIn app settings. With just a few minutes of set up time, you can greatly strengthen your account security and online presence.