Overview
Ledger Live is the desktop and mobile companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. The login process connects your local application to the keys stored on your Ledger device (Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X). Unlike cloud wallets, Ledger Live does not store private keys — authentication is done locally and all sensitive signing happens on your hardware device.
Quick login steps
1. Start Ledger Live
Open the Ledger Live application (desktop or mobile). If this is your first time, ensure you downloaded Ledger Live from the official Ledger website and your OS shows a legitimate publisher signature.
2. Connect your device
Use a USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X) to connect your Ledger. Unlock the device with your PIN. Ledger Live will typically detect the device and prompt you to open the Ledger Live app on the device if a connection is required.
3. Authorize the connection
When Ledger Live asks for permission to communicate, approve the connection on the device. For any transaction or account signature, the device will show the details to confirm before signing — this prevents remote manipulation.
4. Access accounts
Once connected and authorized, Ledger Live lists the cryptocurrency accounts linked to the device. You can view balances, send/receive, and manage apps installed on the device.
Security best practices (must-read)
- Never share your 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger staff will never ask for it. Store it offline in a secure location.
- Verify addresses on your device. Always confirm receiving addresses on the Ledger screen when receiving funds.
- Keep firmware up to date. Update Ledger device firmware through Ledger Live when prompted — only when connected to the official app.
- Use a secure PIN. Choose a PIN that’s easy to remember but not predictable; avoid birthdays or repeating digits.
- Beware of phishing. Check URLs carefully. Only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger domain and avoid clicking unknown links in emails or chats.
Common troubleshooting
Device not detected
Try using a different USB port or cable. Verify that the device is recognised by the operating system on the desktop and that all necessary drivers are installed. Frequently, restarting the program or computer fixes temporary problems..
App shows \"Wrong app\" or \"App not open\"
Before attempting the activity in Ledger Live, launch the applicable cryptocurrency app on the Ledger device (such as the Bitcoin app). In order to sign particular currencies, the ledger device needs the app to be open.
Forgot PIN
You must reset the device and restore from your recovery phrase if you can't remember the PIN. For this reason, it is essential to store the recovery phrase safely.
Privacy & privacy-preserving tips
Private keys never leave the device, even though Ledger Live exchanges pricing and blockchain data with distant nodes. If you are worried about metadata leaking, think considering utilising self-hosted nodes or third-party node solutions for optimal privacy.
FAQ
Can Ledger Live be used without the device?
Although you can install Ledger Live and explore its capabilities, you will always require the actual hardware device in order to access funds or sign transactions..
Is my seed phrase stored in Ledger Live?
No, Ledger Live never saves recovery phrases. They should only be present in the offline, safe recovery backup that you made.