Ledger Live is the desktop and mobile application for managing Ledger hardware wallets (Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.). This guide walks you through logging into Ledger Live safely, connecting your Ledger device, troubleshooting common login issues, and best security practices.
What you need before you begin
A supported Ledger hardware wallet (e.g., Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X).
Ledger Live app installed on your desktop or mobile device. Download only from the official Ledger website or your app store.
Your hardware wallet PIN (created during initial setup).
Your 24-word recovery phrase — do not enter this into Ledger Live. Keep it offline and private.
If using desktop, a native USB-C/USB-A cable and the Ledger device firmware must be up to date.
Step-by-step: Logging into Ledger Live (Desktop)
Open the Ledger Live application on your computer.
If this is your first time, you'll see a welcome screen with two options: Set up as new device or Restore device. Choose the appropriate option and follow on-screen prompts. If you already set up your device, choose Already have a device.
Connect your Ledger hardware wallet to the computer using the cable. For Ledger Nano X, you can also use Bluetooth with the mobile app.
On the device, enter your PIN to unlock it. Use the device buttons to navigate and confirm.
In Ledger Live, go to Get started or Manager and allow the app to detect your device. If prompted on the device, confirm the connection by approving "Allow Ledger Manager".
Once connected, Ledger Live will display your accounts. You don't "log in" with username/password: the physical device + PIN is your authentication factor.
Important: Ledger Live does not request your 24-word recovery phrase. If any software or website asks for it, consider it a scam and disconnect immediately.
Logging into Ledger Live (Mobile)
Install Ledger Live from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Open the app and select Get started.
Choose your device model, then follow the prompts to pair via Bluetooth (Ledger Nano X) or use a cable with an OTG adapter for other devices.
Unlock your Ledger with your PIN and approve pairing on the device when asked.
How authentication works
Ledger's security model relies on the hardware device as a secure element. Ledger Live acts as a management interface; the private keys never leave the hardware wallet. To "log in," you must physically approve actions on the device (entering PIN and pressing buttons). This makes account takeover much harder compared to password-only systems.
Troubleshooting common login issues
Ledger Live cannot detect my device
Ensure the cable is data-capable (not charge-only).
Try a different USB port or cable.
On desktop, close and re-open Ledger Live. On some systems you may need to reboot.
Update the device firmware via the Manager in Ledger Live (if the device is partially recognized).
Windows users: make sure drivers are installed and the OS is updated. On older Windows builds you may need to allow an unsigned driver — check Ledger's official support first.
Bluetooth pairing fails (Nano X)
Turn Bluetooth off and on in your phone, then re-open Ledger Live.
Restart both the phone and the Ledger device.
Make sure Bluetooth permissions are granted to Ledger Live in your phone settings.
Forgot PIN
If you forget your PIN, you must reset the device and restore your accounts from the 24-word recovery phrase. Factory resetting deletes the private keys on the device — restore them only with your recovery phrase. If you do not have your recovery phrase, the funds are irretrievable.
Security best practices for Ledger Live login
Keep your recovery phrase offline: never type it into a computer or mobile device.
Download Ledger Live only from Ledger's official site or official app stores. Beware of phishing sites that mimic the Ledger domain.
Verify firmware updates: when Ledger Live prompts to update firmware, confirm the exact steps displayed on your physical device before approving.
Use a separate computer or clean environment for large transfers if you suspect your usual device may be compromised.
Be cautious with third-party apps: when adding apps to your Ledger device or connecting to dApps, review permissions and only approve expected actions on the hardware device.
Keep Ledger Live updated: install official updates to benefit from security improvements and bug fixes.
Advanced tips
Hide sensitive account information
Ledger Live lets you hide or archive accounts you don't want visible. This is useful if someone else briefly uses your computer or to reduce the surface for social engineering.
Use multiple accounts and receive addresses
Create separate accounts for different coins, purposes, or security levels. Always verify receive addresses on the hardware device screen before sharing them — an infected computer can show a fake address in the app while the device shows the real one.
Testing small transactions first
Before sending large amounts, send a small test transaction to confirm the pathway and approvals are working as expected.
What Ledger Live will never do
Ask for your 24-word recovery phrase in the app or website.
Require you to send crypto to "verify" or "activate" an account.
Promote unexpected updates that request your recovery phrase or private keys.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Do I need an account or password to use Ledger Live?
No. Ledger Live does not use email/password logins for core functions. The hardware device + PIN authenticates you. Optional features such as Ledger Live cloud sync may require additional setup — always review what you enable.
Can someone access my crypto if they have Ledger Live installed on my computer?
Not without physical access to your Ledger device and your PIN. The private keys are kept on the device and transaction approvals must be confirmed on it. However, a compromised computer can still attempt phishing actions, so maintain good endpoint hygiene.
Is Ledger Live open source?
Ledger provides resources and documentation about their codebase. Check Ledger's official site for the latest on open-source components and audits.