Ledger® Live — Login & Getting Started

H2 — Quick overview

Ledger Live is the companion app for Ledger hardware wallets that lets you manage accounts, send and receive crypto, install apps on your device, and keep your firmware up to date. There is no web-based login where your private keys are stored — access is performed locally through your Ledger device and Ledger Live (desktop or mobile).

H2 — Before you begin (security checklist)

H3 — What to have ready

Genuine Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, Flex, or equivalent).
Ledger Live installed from the official site or official stores above.
Your PIN (set during setup) and your 24-word recovery phrase stored offline.
A trusted USB cable (or Bluetooth for supported models).

Pro tip: Never type your 24-word recovery phrase into Ledger Live, websites, or share it with anyone — Ledger will never ask for it.

H2 — Step-by-step: Install & open Ledger Live

H3 — 1. Download the app

Go to the official Ledger Live download page and choose the version for your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux) or install from the App Store / Google Play.

H3 — 2. Install and run

Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions. When Ledger Live opens, you’ll be walked through initial screens that explain device pairing and account creation.

H3 — 3. Connect your Ledger device

Connect using the official cable. Unlock the Ledger device with your PIN and follow prompts on the physical device when Ledger Live asks for verification.

H3 — 4. Add accounts & sync

In Ledger Live go to Accounts > Add account, choose the coin, and follow the prompts. Ledger Live synchronizes balances and transaction history without exposing your private keys.

H2 — Logging in (what 'login' means for Ledger Live)

H3 — There is no central username/password

Ledger Live does not use a cloud username/password for wallet access. Instead, the 'login' flow uses your physical device and PIN. When you open Ledger Live and connect your device, you authenticate locally by entering your PIN on the device and approving actions (e.g., sending funds) on the device screen.

H4 — Common misconceptions

You should never enter your recovery phrase into the app or any website.
Ledger Support will never ask for your 24-word phrase.

H2 — Troubleshooting: Common login & connection issues

H3 — 1. Device not detected

Try a different USB cable/port, reboot your computer, and ensure Ledger Live is up to date. On macOS, check security settings if the device is blocked.

H3 — 2. App shows "No device" or "Unlock device"

Make sure the device is powered and unlocked with the correct PIN. If the device was factory reset, you’ll need to restore from your recovery phrase.

H3 — 3. Fake app warnings

Only download Ledger Live from ledger.com, App Store, or Google Play. There are fake apps and installers in the wild — verify hashes/signatures if in doubt (see Verify Downloads link above).

H2 — H4 — Security best practices

H5 — Keep firmware & apps updated

Regularly update Ledger device firmware and Ledger Live to get security fixes and improvements.

H5 — Backup your recovery phrase

Write your 24-word phrase on paper or metal backup and store it offline in a secure place (fireproof safe recommended).

H5 — Beware phishing

Never click links from unknown emails asking you to install or update Ledger Live. Go directly to ledger.com for official resources.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I log into Ledger Live from any computer?: A: Yes — Ledger Live can be installed on multiple devices, but you will always need your physical Ledger device and PIN to authenticate and approve transactions.
Q: I lost my Ledger device — how do I access my funds?: A: Use your 24-word recovery phrase to restore your wallet on a new Ledger device or a compatible wallet. Never enter the phrase into a website or share it.
Q: Does Ledger Live store my private keys in the cloud?: A: No. Private keys remain on the Ledger hardware device. Ledger Live only reads public information to display balances and build transactions which must be approved on device.
Q: What if Ledger Live asks for my recovery phrase?: A: It should never ask. If it does, treat it as a scam, disconnect immediately, and reinstall Ledger Live from the official site.
Q: How do I verify that the Ledger Live download is authentic?: A: Use the Verify Downloads page to compare SHA512 signatures or follow instructions on Ledger's site.