What does "Ledger Live login" mean?
Ledger Live does not create a cloud account with username and password for custody of your funds. Instead, "logging in" refers to preparing and granting Ledger Live permission to interact with your Ledger hardware wallet. There are three complementary layers involved:
- Ledger device: private keys are generated and stored on the hardware wallet and never leave it.
- Device PIN: entered on the physical device to unlock and authorize operations.
- Optional app lock: a local Ledger Live password or mobile biometric lock that restricts access to the app on your machine or phone.
This approach ensures that even if a computer is compromised, transactions cannot be signed without the physical device and its PIN.
Download & install Ledger Live
- Always start at the official page: Ledger.com/Start.
- Select the correct installer for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux) or use the official app stores for mobile.
- Run the installer and follow the onboarding steps. Allow updates — they often include important security fixes and device support.
Tip: Verify the publisher in app stores (Ledger SAS) and bookmark the official start page to avoid phishing.
Desktop login flow — step by step
On desktop, a typical "login" session goes like this:
- Open Ledger Live. If you enabled it, enter your local app password to unlock the interface (Settings → Security).
- Connect your Ledger device to your computer using a data-capable USB cable.
- Enter your device PIN directly on the hardware wallet to unlock it.
- Open the specific blockchain app on the device (e.g., Bitcoin) when prompted — Ledger Live will then display accounts and balances.
- To send funds or perform sensitive actions, confirm transaction details on the device screen and approve to sign.
Viewing portfolio data without a connected device is possible only if app password protection is disabled; signing always requires the hardware.
Mobile login & pairing
Ledger Live Mobile offers on-the-go access while preserving hardware-level security:
- Install Ledger Live from the App Store or Google Play and enable app-level security (PIN, Face ID, fingerprint).
- Pair your Ledger device in the app:
- Nano X: pairs via Bluetooth through Ledger Live.
- Nano S Plus: connects via USB OTG on supported Android devices.
- Enter the device PIN on the Ledger hardware to authorize pairing and to sign transactions.
Tip: Keep Bluetooth off when not pairing to minimize attack surface on mobile devices.
App password vs Device PIN — responsibilities
The app password protects Ledger Live locally (hides portfolio metadata and requires a password to open the app). The device PIN secures the hardware wallet itself and is required for all signing operations. If you forget the app password, you can reset Ledger Live and reconnect your Ledger device. If you forget the device PIN, you must reset the device and restore using your recovery phrase.
Signing transactions — verify on-device
A core security guarantee of Ledger Live is that all transactions are signed inside the Ledger device. When you initiate a send:
- Ledger Live prepares the unsigned transaction locally (recipient, amount, fees).
- The unsigned transaction is sent to the Ledger device for signing.
- The device displays the exact recipient address, amount, and fees — you must verify these details on the hardware screen.
- Only after you confirm on-device will the transaction be signed and returned to Ledger Live for broadcast.
Warning: Always trust the hardware device screen. If the address or amount differs, cancel and re-check; never approve mismatched details.
Troubleshooting common login issues
Try a different USB cable or port, avoid USB hubs, ensure Ledger Live is up to date, and restart both the app and device.
Forget the device in your phone's Bluetooth settings, re-pair from Ledger Live, and keep devices close while pairing.
Clear the Ledger Live cache (Settings → Help → Clear cache), reinstall from the official site, and restart your system.
Reset Ledger Live and reconnect the hardware wallet — your funds remain safe because private keys never leave the device.
Lost device & recovery
Losing your physical Ledger does not mean losing your crypto as long as you have your 24-word recovery phrase. To recover:
- Obtain a new compatible Ledger device (or compatible hardware wallet).
- During setup, choose "Restore from recovery phrase" and enter your 24 words in the correct order.
- Reinstall Ledger Live and add your accounts — balances reappear because assets are on-chain.
Important: If your recovery phrase is lost or exposed, funds may be irrecoverable — never share it and store it offline in secure locations.
Security best practices
- Download Ledger Live only from Ledger.com/Start or official app stores.
- Never enter or share your 24-word recovery phrase — Ledger Support will never ask for it.
- Verify transaction details on the device screen before approving.
- Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated to receive security patches and new features.
- Use strong local app passwords or biometrics on shared devices and enable auto-lock timers.
- Prefer direct USB connections for firmware updates and avoid public/untrusted computers for sensitive operations.
Getting help
If troubleshooting steps don't resolve an issue, consult the official Ledger Help Center at support.ledger.com or use the in-app Help widget. Be alert for impersonators: official support will never ask for your recovery phrase or private keys.
