Ledger® Live — Login & Getting Started | Getting Started Guide
Introduction
Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile app that pairs with Ledger hardware wallets (Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X) to let you manage crypto accounts securely. This guide walks you through download, initial setup, login flows, account management, and essential security tips so you can get up and running confidently.
Important quick note: always download Ledger Live and firmware updates from Ledger's official site. Never share your 24-word recovery phrase — Ledger will never ask for it. If any interface requests the seed phrase, treat it as a scam.
Official Links (quick access)
Tip:
Click a coloured pill to open the official Ledger page in a new tab (links above are direct official Ledger pages and app-store listings).
Download & Install (Desktop or Mobile)
1) Go to Download Ledger Live (link above). Choose Windows / macOS / Linux or mobile store. Verify the download signatures (optional, advanced) to ensure file integrity. Open the installer and follow prompts.
Desktop steps (short)
From ledger.com, download the Ledger Live installer for your OS.
Run the installer and allow necessary permissions. Ledger Live will install supporting components.
Launch Ledger Live and accept any first-run prompts (privacy info, telemetry — optional).
Connect your Ledger device with the supplied USB/USB-C cable and follow on-screen prompts to select your device model.
Mobile steps (short)
Install from the App Store or Google Play (links above). Open the app, allow Bluetooth (if using Nano X), and follow pairing instructions.
Initial Device Setup: PIN & Recovery Phrase
When you initialize a Ledger device you will choose between “Set up as new device” or “Restore from recovery phrase.” For a new device:
Create a PIN
Choose a 4—8 digit PIN on the device screen. Enter it twice to confirm. This PIN protects on-device operations; it is not your recovery phrase.
Write down your Recovery Phrase
The device will generate a 24-word recovery phrase. Write these words on the supplied recovery sheet in order and store it offline in a secure location (safe, deposit box). Do not photograph or store digitally. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase in support.
Security reminder
If any app or website asks you to type your 24-word phrase, it's a scam. Do not enter it anywhere. Ledger Live and Ledger Support never require the recovery phrase to fix issues.
Adding Accounts & Using Ledger Live
After setup, use the Ledger Live "Manager" to install coin-specific apps to your device (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Then add accounts in Ledger Live for each asset you want to manage.
Send & Receive
To receive: Open an account in Ledger Live, click “Receive”, connect and unlock your device, then verify the address shown on-device. To send: prepare a transaction in Ledger Live, and confirm details on your hardware wallet before approving.
Manager & Apps
The Manager allows you to install/uninstall coin apps on your device. Installing an app does not reveal funds — private keys remain on the secure element.
Login & Account Recovery
Ledger Live uses local device authentication (your PIN + device confirmation) to authorize operations. If you lose your device, you can recover your wallet on a new Ledger (or compatible hardware/software) using the 24-word recovery phrase.
Troubleshooting login issues
If Ledger Live does not detect your device, try: different USB port/cable, reinstall Ledger Live from the official download page, check OS permissions, or consult the Support Center (link above).
Security Best Practices
1. Only download from ledger.com
Fake Ledger Live builds have been used in malware campaigns — always verify the source and signatures if you can.
2. Never share your recovery phrase
Keep it offline and never type it into a website or app.
3. Keep firmware & Ledger Live updated
Updates can patch vulnerabilities — apply them using the official Manager flow in Ledger Live.
4. Use device confirmations
Every send or approval must be verified on the physical device — don’t skip this step.
Extra Resources & Where to Get Help
Ledger provides a Support Center, step-by-step articles, video tutorials and the Ledger Academy to learn more about crypto security and advanced Ledger features. If you suspect malware or compromise, consult Ledger Support and move funds to a secure wallet only after recovery steps.
If you prefer learning by video, Ledger’s tutorial library and Academy contain guided setup videos and topic-based lessons which are great for visual learners.