Ledger® Live — Login & Getting Started | Guide

Clear, secure steps to log in, set up Ledger® Live, connect your Ledger device, add accounts, and perform your first transactions.

Before you begin

Make sure you have your Ledger hardware device (Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X, or a supported model), your recovery phrase securely stored, and access to the computer where you will install Ledger® Live.

1. Download & install Ledger® Live

  1. Download the app: Get the Ledger® Live installer for your operating system and run the installer locally.
  2. Open Ledger® Live: Launch the application and follow the first-run prompts.
  3. Choose an option: Select Create a new wallet if you are setting up a new Ledger device, or Restore device if you already have a recovery phrase.

2. Connect and unlock your Ledger device

  1. Connect your Ledger device to your computer with the USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X when supported).
  2. Enter your PIN on the device. Ledger® Live will detect the device and guide you to install manager apps if required.
  3. Keep your recovery phrase offline and never enter it into Ledger® Live or any website.

3. Add accounts in Ledger® Live

Accounts link your Ledger device to the Ledger® Live interface so you can view balances and initiate transactions.

  1. Open Accounts → Add account in Ledger® Live.
  2. Choose the cryptocurrency (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) and follow the on-screen instructions while confirming actions on your device.
  3. Repeat to add more accounts for different coins or tokens.

4. Send & receive crypto

Transactions require on-device confirmation so your private keys never leave the hardware wallet.

  1. Receive: In Ledger® Live select an account → Receive → Verify the address on your device → Share the confirmed address to the sender.
  2. Send: Select an account → Send → Paste the destination address and amount → Confirm the details on your Ledger device → Approve to sign and broadcast the transaction.

5. Backups & security

  • Always keep your recovery phrase in a safe, offline location—this is the only backup of your funds.
  • Never share your recovery phrase with anyone or type it into apps or websites.
  • Use a trusted, up-to-date machine and download Ledger® Live only from official sources.

Troubleshooting common login & connection issues

  • Ledger® Live doesn't detect the device: Try another USB cable or port, make sure the device is unlocked, and verify Ledger Live has permission to access USB on your OS.
  • Bluetooth pairing fails (Nano X): Toggle Bluetooth, restart Ledger® Live, and delete previous pairings in the device settings before retrying.
  • App manager shows 'device not identified': Update the firmware on your Ledger device using Ledger® Live if prompted—follow on-screen instructions carefully.

Advanced tips

  • Export transaction history from Ledger® Live for tax and accounting purposes via the Export feature in Accounts.
  • Use multiple accounts and device passphrases (advanced) to create separate hidden wallets—only for experienced users who understand the risks and recovery implications.

FAQ

Do I need to log in with a password?
Ledger® Live optionally lets you set an application password for local access, but the true authorization comes from confirming transactions on your Ledger device.
What if I lose my device?
Recover your accounts on another compatible Ledger device or a compatible software wallet using your recovery phrase—only if you have the phrase securely stored.

Disclaimer: This guide explains general Ledger® Live usage and security best practices. It is not financial advice. Always verify details and follow official Ledger guidance when available.