How To Do WhatsApp Web Login Using QR Code and Phone Number: Know Step-by-Step Guide To Log In to WhatsApp Web at web.whatsapp.com
WhatsApp Web login allows desktop messaging on up to four devices without needing your phone online. To log in, scan the QR code or use a phone number code at web.whatsapp.com. For security, always log out via the browser menu or remotely through your phone's Linked Devices settings to prevent unauthorised access on shared computers.
Mumbai, February 8: In 2026, WhatsApp Web remains an essential tool for those balancing productivity across desktop and mobile platforms. While the service has expanded to allow independent operation on up to four linked devices without requiring a primary phone to stay online, maintaining account security through proper login and delinking protocols is more critical than ever. With the recent rollout of "Strict Account Settings" by Meta, users now have more flexible methods to access their chats on browsers while ensuring their data remains protected.
How to Log In to WhatsApp Web
The 2026 update provides two primary ways to link your account to a browser. Both methods utilise end-to-end encryption to sync your messages securely. ‘Can’t Play With Right to Privacy’: Supreme Court Flags Concerns Over WhatsApp Privacy Policy, Data Sharing.
Method 1: The QR Code Scan (Standard)
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Navigate to web.whatsapp.com on your computer’s browser.
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Open WhatsApp on your smartphone.
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On Android: Tap the three dots (Menu) and select Linked Devices.
On iPhone: Go to Settings and select Linked Devices.
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Tap Link a Device. If your phone requires biometric authentication (Face ID or Fingerprint), complete the scan.
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Point your phone at the computer screen to scan the displayed QR code.
Method 2: Link with Phone Number (Alternative)
If your phone camera is unavailable, you can link via a one-time code:
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On the WhatsApp Web login page, click "Link with phone number instead."
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Enter your mobile number and click Next.
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A 6-character code will appear on your browser.
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Open the notification on your phone or go to Linked Devices > Link a Device to enter this code.
The Multi-Device Advantage
Once linked, your WhatsApp Web session operates independently. This means you can continue to send and receive messages even if your phone’s battery dies or it loses internet connectivity. However, for security reasons, if you do not use your primary phone for over 14 days, WhatsApp will automatically log you out of all linked web sessions. WhatsApp New Feature Update: Meta-Owned Platform Working on ‘Channel Admin Profile’ To Enhance Transparency.
How to Delink WhatsApp Web After Use
For those using shared or office computers, delinking (logging out) is a vital privacy step. You can perform this action directly from the computer or remotely using your phone.
Option 1: Logout from the Browser
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Click the Menu icon (three dots or gear icon) above your chat list.
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Select Log out.
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Confirm the logout when prompted.
Option 2: Remote Logout via Smartphone
If you forget to log out on a public computer, you can terminate the session from anywhere:
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Open WhatsApp on your phone and go to Linked Devices.
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Review the list of Active Devices. It will show the browser (e.g., Google Chrome) and the last time it was active.
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Tap the device you wish to remove.
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Select Log out to instantly disconnect that session.
Security Best Practices
Security experts recommend periodically checking your "Linked Devices" list to ensure no unauthorised browsers are connected. Additionally, avoid checking the "Keep me signed in" box on computers that are not your personal property. In 2026, enabling Two-Step Verification within your account settings remains the most effective defence against unauthorised access.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 08, 2026 01:07 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).