Logging into LinkedIn with your username and password is a straightforward process that allows you to access your professional network and all of the features LinkedIn has to offer. With over 800 million members worldwide, LinkedIn is the largest professional networking platform and an invaluable resource for establishing connections, searching for jobs, showcasing your skills and experience, and more. Whether you are new to LinkedIn or simply need a refresher, this guide will walk you through how to log in using your username step-by-step.
Prerequisites
Before logging into LinkedIn, you will need:
- A LinkedIn account – If you don’t already have an account, you can sign up for a free basic account on LinkedIn.com or via the LinkedIn mobile app.
- Your LinkedIn username – This is the email address or phone number you used when creating your LinkedIn account.
- Your LinkedIn password – If you have forgotten your password, you can reset it via the LinkedIn website.
- Internet access – You’ll need an internet connection to log into LinkedIn and access the platform.
Ensure you have these prerequisites in hand before attempting to log in.
Steps to Log Into LinkedIn with Username
Logging into LinkedIn using your username is simple and quick. Follow these steps:
- Navigate to LinkedIn.com or open the LinkedIn mobile app.
- Click “Sign in” located in the top right corner of the page (web) or bottom right (app).
- Enter your LinkedIn username in the “Username or email” field.
- Enter your LinkedIn password in the “Password” field.
- Click the blue “Sign in” button.
Once you click sign in, LinkedIn will verify your credentials and log you into your account. The homepage of your LinkedIn feed will load.
Troubleshooting Login Issues
In some cases, you may encounter errors or inability to log in using your LinkedIn username. Here are some tips for troubleshooting common login issues:
Incorrect Username or Password
Double check that you are entering the correct username (email or phone number on your account) and the password associated with that account. Passwords are case-sensitive so ensure caps lock is not accidentally enabled.
If you cannot remember your password, use the “Forgot password?” link to reset it. LinkedIn will send a password reset link to your email or text you a code to allow you to enter a new password.
Two-Factor Authentication Enabled
If you have two-factor authentication enabled on your LinkedIn account, you will need to enter both your password and the generated authentication code. The code can sent via text, automated voice call, or generated through an authentication app.
Retrieve your latest authentication code and enter it after your password to fully log in. You can disable two-factor authentication under your account’s security settings if desired.
Web Browser or LinkedIn App Issues
In rare cases, the problem may be your web browser, LinkedIn mobile app, or internet connection. Try the following:
- Clear cached data and cookies in your browser or LinkedIn app
- Try logging in using a different web browser or your mobile data
- Update your web browser or LinkedIn app to the latest version
- Use a private or incognito browsing window
If you still cannot log in, contact LinkedIn Customer Service for further troubleshooting assistance.
Best Practices for Logging In
To ensure a smooth and successful login each time, keep these best practices in mind:
- Bookmark LinkedIn.com to easily access the login page
- Save your username and password in your web browser’s password manager for auto-fill
- Log out fully at the end of each session, especially on shared devices
- Use a strong, unique password and change it every 90 days
- Enable two-factor authentication for enhanced security
- Keep your login credentials private and do not share them with others
Following these best practices will help prevent any login frustrations and keep your LinkedIn account secure.
Logging In on Mobile Devices
LinkedIn offers mobile apps for iOS and Android devices to access your account on the go. To log into the LinkedIn mobile app:
- Download and install the LinkedIn app from your device’s app store
- Open the LinkedIn app and tap “Sign in”
- Enter your username and password
- Tap “Sign in” and you will be logged into your LinkedIn account
The login process is optimized for mobile with larger tap targets and a streamlined interface. The app may save your credentials to make future logins even quicker.
You can enable fingerprint or face ID login through your device’s settings for instant, biometric access to LinkedIn on mobile.
Logging In on LinkedIn Website
To log into the full LinkedIn site using your desktop or laptop browser:
- Go to LinkedIn.com and click “Sign in” in the top right
- Enter your LinkedIn username and password
- Click the blue “Sign in” button to log into your account
This provides access to all of LinkedIn’s features and content beyond what the mobile experience offers.
Keep your browser updated and use a private browsing window for optimal security when accessing LinkedIn from your computer. Bookmark the page for fast access.
Staying Logged In vs. Logging Out
Once logged into LinkedIn, you may choose to either stay logged in or fully log out at the end of each session:
Staying Logged In
LinkedIn offers the option to “keep me signed in” during login. Choosing this will keep you logged into your LinkedIn account on that device until you manually log out.
The benefit is convenience – you won’t need to repeatedly enter credentials to access LinkedIn. However, it poses a security risk on shared or public devices since others could access your account.
Logging Out
To fully log out, click your profile photo and select “Sign out” from the dropdown menu. This will clear your credentials and require you to log back in next time.
Logging out is safer, especially if accessing LinkedIn from a shared computer or public location. However, it takes extra time to log in each session.
Evaluate your personal security needs when deciding between staying logged in or logging out. Log out by default on devices others may access.
Resetting Your Password
If you forget or misplace your LinkedIn password, you can easily reset it:
- On the LinkedIn login page, click “Forgot password?”
- Enter your LinkedIn username and complete the Captcha
- Select to reset via email or text message verification
- Follow the reset link sent to you to create a new password
Resetting your password instantly allows you to create a new one and regain access to your account. Be sure to choose a strong password you have not used elsewhere.
You can also enable two-factor authentication after resetting your password to improve security. Your profile and data will remain intact after a password reset.
Changing Your Username
While you cannot change your primary username on LinkedIn which is tied to your account’s email or phone number, you can customize your public profile URL:
- Go to your profile and click “Edit public profile & URL”
- Click “Edit” next to the URL section
- Enter a new custom URL (e.g. LinkedIn.com/yourname)
- Click “Save” to change your public profile URL
Your main username will remain the same, but this allows you to change the customizable portion of your public profile link. Choose something memorable.
Conclusion
Logging into LinkedIn using your username is a quick and easy process granting access to all of the platform’s professional networking features. Simply enter your username and password at LinkedIn.com or the mobile app and click sign in. Keep your credentials secure by using a strong password and enabling two-factor authentication. Log out fully when finishing your session. If you ever forget your password, resetting it is fast and simple. Follow these tips and best practices for smooth access to your LinkedIn account. The power of your professional network is now in your hands.
Platform | Login Steps |
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LinkedIn Website |
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LinkedIn Mobile App |
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