How to Set Up 2-Factor Authentication in HubSpot Using SMS (Step-by-Step Guide)

Today, businesses need a centralised system to manage their sales, marketing, and operations in one place. Without it, teams often end up juggling multiple tools, leading to inefficiencies and missed opportunities. This is where HubSpot plays a key role.

HubSpot is more than just a CRM; it’s a powerful platform that helps teams manage customer relationships, streamline communication, and keep all critical data in one place.

However, managing your business data in HubSpot also means handling sensitive information like contacts, deals, and customer conversations. Despite this, many users still rely only on passwords to secure their accounts.

The problem is that passwords alone are not enough. If someone gains unauthorised access, your entire CRM data can be exposed or misused.

This is where 2-Factor Authentication (2FA) becomes essential. It adds an extra layer of security by requiring a verification code during login.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to set up 2FA in HubSpot using the SMS option, step by step.

Why 2-Factor Authentication is Important?

In many cases I’ve seen, teams skip basic security setup like 2FA, which increases the risk of unauthorised access.

HubSpot serves as a central system for your sales and customer data, making it a high-value target for unauthorised access. A single compromised account can expose sensitive information, disrupt workflows, and impact your business operations.

Passwords alone are no longer a reliable security measure, especially with rising threats such as phishing and credential leaks.

Enabling 2-Factor Authentication (2FA) ensures that even if your login credentials are compromised, your account remains protected through an additional verification step.

For any business using HubSpot, 2FA is not optional; it’s a basic security requirement.

Before setting up 2-Factor Authentication (2FA) in HubSpot: 

Before setting up 2-Factor Authentication (2FA) in HubSpot using SMS, make sure you have the following:

1. Access to your HubSpot account

2. A valid mobile number that can receive SMS
3. Your phone available for OTP verification
4. Required permissions (if applicable)

Step-by-Step Guide to Set Up 2FA in HubSpot Using SMS

Follow these steps to enable 2-Factor Authentication in your HubSpot account:

1. Sign in to your HubSpot account using your email and password.

2. Click on the Settings icon in the top navigation bar.
3. In the left sidebar, go to General, then click on the Security tab.
4. Click Set up two-factor authentication to begin.
5. HubSpot will send a 6-digit verification code to your registered email address. Enter the code to proceed.
6. Choose SMS (Text Message) as your preferred 2FA method.
7. Enter your mobile number where you want to receive the verification codes.
8. You will receive a 6-digit OTP via SMS. Enter the code to verify your phone number.
9. HubSpot will provide backup codes. Make sure to save them securely in case you lose access to your phone.
10. If you want to add an authenticator app as a secondary method, you can set it up. Otherwise, you can skip this step and continue with SMS.
11. Click on Next to finish the setup process. Your 2FA will now be enabled.

Common Issues and How to Fix Them?

When setting up 2-Factor Authentication (2FA) in HubSpot, you may encounter common issues. Here’s how to handle them:

1. Not Receiving the Verification Code:
   Make sure your phone number is entered correctly, and your network connection is active. Try resending the code after a few seconds.

2. Incorrect OTP Entered:
   Ensure you are entering the latest 6-digit code. OTPs expire quickly, so avoid delays.
3. Wrong Phone Number Added: 
   If you entered the wrong number, go back and update it before completing the setup.
   
4. Unable to Access Phone Later: 
   Always save your backup codes. These will help you log in if your phone is unavailable.
5. Permission Restrictions (For Teams):
   If you're part of a team account, some settings may be restricted. Contact your admin if you’re unable to enable 2FA.
   

In most cases, these issues are minor and can be resolved quickly by double-checking your details and network connectivity.

Conclusion

As HubSpot becomes the central system for managing your sales and customer data, securing it should be a top priority. Enabling 2FA is one of the simplest ways to protect your account and prevent potential risks.