Ledger® Live: Login | Getting started™ with Ledger®

Overview — what is Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application used to manage Ledger hardware wallets. Through Ledger Live you can initialize devices, install coin apps, add accounts, view portfolio values, and send or receive cryptocurrencies. The app acts as a secure bridge between your offline keys (stored in the Ledger device) and online services where transactions may be broadcast.

Before you begin

Gather these items before starting: your Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or other), the USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X), a computer or mobile device, and a pen + the recovery sheet included with your Ledger. Ensure you are in a private space and connected to a trusted network.

Install & login to Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live from the official site:
Go to https://ledger.com/start and choose the correct installer for your operating system. Verify the URL and TLS certificate in your browser to avoid phishing sites. Ledger also provides mobile versions on official app stores.
Install the application:
Run the installer and follow the on‑screen prompts. Ledger Live will request permission to connect to your Ledger device when plugged in. On Linux you may need udev rules — follow official instructions in the support pages.
Open Ledger Live and choose "Get started":
Ledger Live will guide you through either setting up a new device, restoring from a recovery phrase, or connecting an existing device. Choose the option that matches your situation.
Login flow:
Ledger Live does not use usernames and passwords in the traditional sense for device access. Instead, it connects to your hardware device — the device itself, PIN protection, and your recovery phrase are the authentication primitives. When you connect a Ledger device and approve an action (like installing an app or signing a transaction) on the device, Ledger Live verifies the device’s authenticity through cryptographic checks.

Initialize your Ledger device

If your Ledger is brand new, choose "Set up as new device" in Ledger Live and follow the prompts. On‑device you will be asked to select a PIN. After choosing a PIN the device will display your 24‑word recovery phrase (generated on the device). Record this phrase exactly and in order on the official recovery sheet provided.

If restoring, choose "Restore device" and enter your 24‑word phrase carefully on the device when prompted.

Security fundamentals — PIN, recovery phrase, passphrase

Device PIN protects access to the Ledger device. Keep it confidential and avoid easily guessed numbers. After several incorrect attempts the device will wipe itself to protect your assets—this is why a secure recovery phrase backup is critical.

Recovery phrase

The 24‑word recovery phrase is the master backup for your wallet. It can restore your funds on any compatible BIP‑39/BIP‑44 wallet. Never share it, store it digitally, or photograph it. Consider durable backups like steel plates for long‑term protection.

Passphrase (optional)

A passphrase is an optional extra word (or phrase) combined with your recovery seed to derive additional hidden wallets. This feature adds plausible deniability and added security but requires meticulous management—losing the passphrase means losing access to the hidden wallet.

Adding accounts and installing apps

Ledger uses modular apps for different blockchains. In Ledger Live you can install apps for Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana and many more directly onto your device. Installs are verified and executed on the device. After installing the relevant app, add an account in Ledger Live to view balances and manage transactions.

Note: Ledger devices have limited storage for apps—on Nano S models, you may need to uninstall and reinstall apps periodically. Uninstalling an app does not remove your accounts or funds, because your keys are stored in the recovery phrase.

Sending and receiving funds

When receiving funds, always verify the receiving address in Ledger Live by comparing it to the address shown on the Ledger device screen. For sending, prepare the transaction in Ledger Live and confirm the details on your device; only transactions approved on the device are signed.

Always test with a small amount when transferring to a new address or service. Confirm amounts, fees, and recipient addresses on‑device to prevent computer‑side tampering.

Troubleshooting common issues

Device not recognized

Swap USB cables/ports, check Ledger Live updates, and on Linux add udev rules if needed. Try restarting Ledger Live and the computer. If the device still fails to connect, consult official support articles.

Forgot PIN

Reset the device to factory settings and restore using your recovery phrase. Do not reset if you do not possess the recovery phrase.

Suspicious prompts & phishing

If a website or app asks for your recovery phrase, it is malicious. Disconnect and close Ledger Live, then visit the official support site. Never disclose your recovery phrase.

Advanced workflows

Ledger supports several advanced workflows for power users and institutions:

Passphrase‑protected wallets: Use optional passphrases to create hidden wallets.
Multisignature setups: Combine multiple devices and policies for distributed control of funds.
Air‑gapped signing: For the highest security, operate a device offline and transfer unsigned transactions via QR codes or USB to a connected machine only to broadcast signed transactions.
Third‑party integrations: Use Ledger with DeFi and exchange UIs but only connect to audited, reputable services and always confirm on‑device.

Best practices for long‑term storage

For long‑term or high‑value storage, consider a multi‑layer approach: hardware wallet(s), geographically separated recovery backups, steel backup plates for durability, and multisig setups where appropriate. Periodically verify that backups are intact and accessible, and keep firmware up to date.

Privacy considerations

Blockchain transactions are public. To reduce linkability between addresses, use separate accounts for different purposes, avoid reusing addresses, and consider privacy‑focused coins or services where appropriate. Remember that exchanges and on‑ramps often perform KYC—plan accordingly.

Regulatory & tax notes

Using Ledger Live and holding crypto can have tax implications depending on your jurisdiction. Keep accurate records of transactions for tax reporting and consult a tax professional if needed. Follow local regulations regarding crypto usage, reporting, and compliance.