Introduction
Ledger® Live is the desktop and mobile companion that lets you manage your crypto assets on Ledger® hardware wallets. Whether you're logging in for the first time or returning after a break, this guide walks you through the safe, official way to login, set up your device, and access official resources. The goal is practical: get you started quickly without compromising security.
H2 — Ledger® Live: Login essentials
H3 — Before you login
Before logging in to Ledger® Live:
- Ensure you downloaded Ledger® Live from the official source. Use Ledger®'s download page. Never use third-party binaries.
- Have your Ledger® device (e.g., Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X) and your PIN ready. If this is your first time, you'll need to initialize the device.
- Keep your 24-word recovery phrase safe and offline — never enter it into any app or website. See official guidance.
H4 — Step-by-step login flow
- Open
Ledger Liveon your computer or mobile device (download link above). - Select “Open” or “Get started” and choose whether you are setting up a new device or already have a recovery phrase.
- Connect your Ledger® device with USB or Bluetooth (depending on model) and enter your PIN on the device.
- When Ledger® Live asks, confirm the connection on the hardware device — physical confirmation prevents many remote attacks.
- If prompted to add an account, choose the cryptocurrency and follow on-screen prompts to install the corresponding app through Ledger® Live.
H5 — Quick troubleshooting
If Ledger® Live won’t detect your device: try a different USB cable, ensure your OS recognizes the device, update Ledger® Live and device firmware, and consult Ledger® Support.
H2 — Getting started™ with Ledger® hardware
Setting up your Ledger® device safely is the foundation of secure crypto storage.
H3 — First-time setup (new device)
When initializing a new Ledger® device:
- Choose a PIN directly on the device — not in Ledger® Live.
- Write down the recovery phrase on the official recovery card and store it offline in a secure location. Consider a fireproof safe.
- Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger® will never ask for it through email, chat, or support channels.
H4 — Restore from an existing recovery phrase
If you already have a recovery phrase from a previous hardware wallet, select Recover device in the device initialization and enter your 24 words using the hardware buttons.
H5 — After setup
Install the apps for the assets you want to manage (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) through Ledger® Live and add accounts. You’ll use the hardware to confirm transactions, keeping your private keys offline.
H2 — Security best practices
H3 — What to protect
Keep safe the three critical elements:
- Device: Keep physical access controlled.
- PIN: Choose a PIN that’s easy for you to remember but hard to guess.
- Recovery phrase: This is the ultimate backup — protect it offline.
H4 — Firmware & software updates
Keep Ledger® Live and your device firmware up to date from official sources. Ledger® regularly releases security updates — check the firmware page and Ledger® Live pages for official notices.
H5 — Beware of phishing
Official Ledger® resources begin with https://www.ledger.com or https://support.ledger.com. Do not follow links in unsolicited messages. If in doubt, visit the official site directly.
H2 — Advanced tips & official learning
Once you’re comfortable with the basics, explore:
- Ledger® Academy — learn the foundations of wallet security and crypto (see Ledger® Academy).
- App management — Ledger® Live controls which crypto apps are installed on your device.
- Third-party integrations — Ledger® supports integrations with exchanges and DeFi platforms; only connect to trusted services.
H3 — When to contact support
If something goes wrong (lost device, suspicious activity, firmware failure), immediately consult Ledger® Support or the contact page. Do not reveal your recovery phrase to anyone — not even support staff.