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

A quick, presentation-style walkthrough to help you install Ledger Live, log in securely, connect your Ledger device, and start managing crypto with confidence.

What Ledger Live Is — and Why It Matters

Ledger Live is the companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. It lets you install apps on your device, manage accounts, send and receive crypto, stake supported assets, and track your portfolio from desktop or mobile. Crucially, your private keys stay inside your Ledger hardware wallet—Ledger Live is the dashboard, while the device is the vault. This separation reduces the risks associated with hot wallets and browser extensions.

Core Benefits at a Glance

Security by Design

Transactions must be confirmed on the device screen. Malware on your computer can’t sign without your explicit approval on the hardware device.

Convenient Portfolio Control

Track balances, monitor fees, and manage multiple accounts across networks—without exposing your recovery phrase online.

Extensible Features

Install coin apps, access buy/sell, swap, stake, and bridge options when available, and keep firmware up to date.

Before You Log In: A Security Checklist

Protect the Basics

Download Ledger Live only from official sources (see the links section below).
Verify the installer checksum or the developer signature if prompted by your OS.
Keep your operating system, antivirus, and Ledger device firmware current.

Essential Rules You Should Never Break

Only enter your PIN on the Ledger device itself.
Only confirm addresses and amounts that match the device screen.

Never Share Your Recovery Phrase

No support agent, website, or app will ever need your 24-word recovery phrase. If anyone asks, it’s a scam.

Install & Log In to Ledger Live (Desktop/Mobile)

Step-by-Step Setup

Download Ledger Live for your platform (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, or Android) from the official pages listed below.
Install and launch the app. On first run, choose whether you’re setting up a new device or connecting an existing one.
Connect your Ledger hardware wallet via USB (or Bluetooth where supported) and unlock it with your device PIN.
In Ledger Live, add accounts for the coins you plan to manage. This installs the corresponding apps onto your device when needed.
Optional: Enable password lock for the Ledger Live app and consider adding biometric lock on mobile for extra peace of mind.

Logging In vs. Authorizing

Ledger Live may use an app password to protect the interface, but that’s not the same as controlling your funds. Every transaction still requires authorization on the hardware wallet. Think of the app password as a screen lock, while the device PIN is the true gatekeeper.

Tip: Confirm the “Genuine Check”

Use the in-app Genuine Check to verify your device’s authenticity. This ensures you’re interacting with a legitimate, untampered Ledger device.

Sending, Receiving, and Staying Safe

Receive Funds

Open the relevant account in Ledger Live and click Receive.
Verify the displayed address on your device screen. Only share addresses you’ve confirmed on-device.

Send Funds

Click Send, paste the destination address, and select the network and fee.
Inspect the details on your Ledger device. Approve only if everything matches your intent.

Fees & Networks

Choose a fee appropriate for current network conditions. When multiple networks exist for a given asset, verify you’re using the intended chain to avoid lost transfers.

Advanced: Staking & Swaps

Where supported, you can stake assets or perform swaps directly within Ledger Live or through integrated partners. Always review partner terms and confirm every step on-device.

Troubleshooting Common Login & Sync Issues

Ledger Live Won’t Open or Crashes

Restart your computer/phone and try again.
Reinstall from the official download page and keep only one version installed.

Device Not Detected

Try a different USB cable/port (data-capable cable) and avoid hubs.
Unlock the device with your PIN and open the correct coin app before connecting the account.

Portfolio Not Updating

Clear cache in Ledger Live settings and re-synchronize.
Check the Ledger status page for ongoing service incidents.

FAQ in Brief

Is Ledger Live a wallet?

Ledger Live is the interface; your Ledger hardware wallet holds your private keys. Transactions require approval on the device, not just in the app.

Can I use multiple devices?

Yes. You can pair multiple Ledger devices with the same instance of Ledger Live and manage various accounts, provided you keep each device’s recovery phrase secure.

What if my computer is compromised?

As long as you verify all actions on the device screen and never reveal your recovery phrase, malware on your computer cannot independently sign transactions. Still, practice good digital hygiene.

Helpful Official Links (10)

Ledger Live — Product Page Start with Ledger — Setup Guide Download & Install Ledger Live (Support) Ledger Support Center Ledger Academy — Learn the Basics Compare Ledger Devices Security at Ledger Securely Manage Your Crypto (Support) Ledger Service Status Official Ledger Blog

Ledger®, Ledger Live™, and related marks are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. This guide is for general information only and does not constitute financial advice. Always verify details on your Ledger device screen and keep your recovery phrase offline and private.