Ledger® Live: Login | Getting started™ with Ledger®

A clear, step-by-step primer on installing Ledger® Live, creating a secure login flow, and managing your first crypto assets with confidence.

What Ledger® Live Is—and Why It Matters

Ledger® Live is the companion app for Ledger® hardware wallets that brings portfolio tracking, crypto sending and receiving, and app management into one secure interface. Instead of juggling many tools, you connect your Ledger® device, open Ledger® Live, and approve actions on the device’s secure screen. This model keeps your private keys offline while letting you interact with blockchains through a polished, guided dashboard.

Download & Install: Start on the Official Site

Tip: Always download Ledger® Live from the official website to avoid counterfeit software. After installation, open the app and allow updates so you’re running the latest security fixes and features.

On desktop, installation is as simple as running the downloaded package and following the prompts. On mobile, get the official app from your platform’s store. After first launch, Ledger® Live will ask you to choose your device model and walk you through setup or restoration.

Ledger® Live Login Basics

Ledger® Live doesn’t use a traditional “online account” login for custody. Instead, your security comes from a layered approach: a local app password (optional but recommended), your device PIN, and your secret recovery phrase stored offline. The app password protects the interface on your computer or phone; the device PIN protects access to hardware; the recovery phrase is your ultimate backup—never type it into a computer, camera, or website.

Setting an App Password

During onboarding—or later in settings—you can enable an app password. Choose a strong, unique passphrase and consider a password manager to store it safely. This step prevents someone with temporary access to your machine from opening Ledger® Live and viewing balances or addresses.

Connecting Your Ledger® Device

Plug in your Ledger® device via USB (or pair via Bluetooth if supported). Enter your device PIN using the device buttons. When prompted, unlock and open the appropriate app (for example, Bitcoin or Ethereum) to allow Ledger® Live to communicate with it. Confirm any on-screen pairing codes on both the device and the app.

Getting Started: First-Time Setup Flow

Create or Restore a Wallet

If you’re new to Ledger®, let the device generate a new recovery phrase and write it on paper (or a metal backup). If you’re migrating, select Restore from recovery phrase on the device and carefully enter every word in order. Ledger® Live will recognize the device state once pairing completes.

Install Apps & Add Accounts

Open the Manager tab to install crypto apps on your device. Each blockchain typically has its own app, and installing is as easy as clicking Install in Ledger® Live while the device is connected. Then, go to Accounts → Add account, select the crypto, and let the app sync. You’ll now see balances and receive/send options.

Receive Your First Funds

Click Receive, choose the account, and verify the address on your device screen. Only trust the address that appears on the hardware device; confirm it matches the one shown in the app before sharing it. This step prevents malware from swapping addresses.

Transacting Securely

Sending Crypto

Use Send in Ledger® Live, paste the recipient address, pick the network, and confirm fees. The device will display all critical details (amount, address, network). Approve only if everything matches your intention. If anything looks off, reject on the device and re-check the details.

Network Fees & Finality

Fees vary by network congestion and speed. Choose a fee tier that aligns with your urgency. After broadcasting, transactions need confirmations; Ledger® Live shows progress so you know when funds are settled.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Sending assets to an incompatible network or account type.
Ignoring the device’s on-screen address verification step.
Approving unfamiliar smart contract prompts without research.

Best Practices for Ongoing Safety

Protect Your Recovery Phrase

Keep the phrase offline, private, and redundant (e.g., two secure locations). Never digitize it via photos, cloud notes, or email. Anyone with this phrase can control your funds.

Keep Firmware & Ledger® Live Updated

Updates deliver security patches and compatibility improvements. Perform them only through the official app, following on-screen prompts, and never while rushing a transaction.

Use a Clean Environment

Close suspicious apps, run anti-malware, and avoid public or untrusted computers. Consider a dedicated user profile or device for crypto activity to reduce exposure.

Verification Habits

Before every action, confirm on the hardware screen. Treat pop-ups and unsolicited messages as suspicious, and double-check URLs when visiting support or downloads.

Quick Recap

Download Ledger® Live only from official sources.
Enable an app password and use a strong device PIN.
Verify addresses on the hardware screen every time.
Back up and safeguard your recovery phrase offline.

Official Ledger® Links (10×)

For safety, bookmark and use these official entry points:

Troubleshooting & Next Steps

If the app doesn’t detect your device, try another USB cable, ensure the correct crypto app is open on the device, and check for pending updates. For persistent issues, the Support Center has step-by-step guides. As you grow, explore staking, swapping (where available), and portfolio analytics—always approving final actions on the hardware screen.

You’re Ready to Go

With Ledger® Live configured and your Ledger® device connected, you have a strong foundation for self-custody. Keep your recovery phrase safe, update responsibly, and make hardware confirmation a habit. That discipline is what turns secure tools into lasting peace of mind.