Ledger® Live: Login | Secure Access to Your Wallet
A practical guide to logging into Ledger Live, hardening access, troubleshooting common login issues, plus a concise FAQ to help you keep your crypto safe.
Why your Ledger Live login matters
Ledger Live is the desktop and mobile companion app that lets you view balances, send and receive assets, and manage apps on your Ledger hardware device. While the hardware wallet stores your private keys offline, Ledger Live is the bridge to the internet — so protecting the login and access is essential.
Quick login steps (desktop & mobile)
Step 1 — Install Ledger Live
Download Ledger Live only from the official Ledger website and verify the installer when possible. Install and open the app.
Step 2 — Connect your Ledger device
Connect your Ledger hardware (Nano S/X or other) using a trusted cable. Approve the connection on the device screen when prompted.
Step 3 — Open the app and unlock
When Ledger Live opens you'll either pair with an existing device (restore/manager) or create a new wallet. Always enter your device PIN directly on the Ledger device — never on the computer screen.
Step 4 — Use Ledger Live password (optional)
Ledger Live can be protected with a local password for convenience. This password protects access to the app on that computer but is not a replacement for your device PIN/seed phrase.
Security best practices
Keep firmware and Ledger Live up to date
Update your Ledger device firmware and Ledger Live app from official sources only — updates include security fixes and compatibility improvements.
Protect your recovery phrase
Your 24-word recovery phrase is the ultimate key. Store it offline in a secure, fireproof place. Never type the phrase into websites, apps, or chats.
Use a strong local password and OS protections
On devices where you install Ledger Live, enable OS-level encryption, strong login passwords, and biometric locks if available.
Don't share screenshots or backups
Screenshots of the app, device, or recovery phrase can leak sensitive information. Avoid cloud backups for anything related to your seed phrase.
Troubleshooting login issues
Problem: Ledger Live cannot detect my device
- Try a different USB cable or port and avoid USB hubs.
- Make sure the device is unlocked (enter PIN) and on the dashboard.
- Restart Ledger Live and the computer/mobile device.
Problem: I forgot my Ledger PIN
If you enter the wrong PIN too many times the device will wipe itself. Recover access by restoring with your 24-word seed phrase on a Ledger or compatible device.
Problem: I can't install apps in Ledger Live
Check device firmware version and available memory on the Ledger device. Update firmware or remove unused apps to free space.
FAQ — Frequently asked questions
Q1: Is Ledger Live open-source?
Ledger Live's core components and some SDKs are open; check the official Ledger resources for current details.
Q2: Can Ledger Live be used without a hardware device?
Limited features may work for viewing information, but to manage funds you will need a Ledger hardware wallet for private key signing.
Q3: What happens if my computer is compromised?
Because private keys remain on the hardware device, attackers need physical access or your recovery phrase to steal funds. Still, keep endpoints clean: use antivirus, avoid suspicious downloads, and prefer a fresh OS or dedicated machine for high-value operations.
Q4: How do I verify Ledger Live downloads?
Always download from the official Ledger website and verify checksums or signatures where provided on Ledger's pages.
Q5: Where can I find official help?
Use Ledger's official support and documentation channels for step-by-step help and announcements.
Helpful official links
Below are quick links back to the official Ledger Live page. (Repeated for convenience — colorful buttons help visibility.)