Overview
Ledger Live is the desktop and mobile application that manages your Ledger hardware wallet and crypto accounts. Logging in to Ledger Live requires the device itself and your device PIN; the app is the interface that communicates with the hardware wallet. Knowing the correct login process and security practices reduces risk of compromise and helps in recovering access if something goes wrong.
Before you log in — quick checklist
- Have your Ledger hardware device (Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.) physically with you.
- Know your device PIN — this unlocks the device. If you enter the wrong PIN too many times the device will wipe.
- Confirm you have your recovery phrase stored safely offline (this is only used to recover a wiped device, not for everyday login).
- Ensure Ledger Live is the official app downloaded from ledger.com (avoid links from emails or search ads).
Step-by-step: Logging in to Ledger Live (desktop)
1. Open the official Ledger Live app on your computer.
2. Connect your Ledger device to the computer via USB and unlock it by entering your PIN on the device screen.
3. If required, open the Ledger Live app on the device (some device models show a message that a companion app is connected).
4. Ledger Live will detect the device and ask to pair or confirm access; follow the on-screen prompts and allow the connection on your device screen.
5. Once connected, Ledger Live will load your accounts and balances. You do not enter your recovery phrase into Ledger Live — ever.
Tip: Ledger Live uses a direct USB or Bluetooth connection (depending on model). Always confirm the device screen prompts match what the app asks.
Mobile login (Ledger Live on phone)
On mobile, Ledger Live pairs with Ledger hardware via Bluetooth (Nano X) or through a USB-OTG adapter (Nano S Plus). The pairing flow requires you to confirm a code on both the phone and the device. Always verify codes visually on the hardware device and confirm via the device — never trust codes shown only on your phone.
Troubleshooting common login problems
- Device not detected: try a different USB cable, a different port, or restart Ledger Live. Make sure the device is unlocked when connecting.
- App asks for recovery phrase: This is a red flag — Ledger Live never requests the recovery phrase to log in. Do not enter it. Quit the app and reinstall from the official site if prompted to provide the phrase.
- Too many wrong PIN attempts: the device will wipe after the maximum attempts. If wiped, recover using your recovery phrase on the device or a new Ledger device.
Security best practices
1. Never enter your recovery phrase into software. The recovery phrase is the master key to your funds — only input it on a trusted hardware device during recovery.
2. Use a strong device PIN and memorize it; do not store it near your ledger or on cloud notes.
3. Keep Ledger Live up to date; updates include both new features and security patches.
4. Beware phishing: Ledger will not send you a pop-up asking for your recovery phrase or PIN. Verify official communications at ledger.com.
Recovering access
If your device is lost, stolen, or wiped, you can recover your accounts on a new Ledger device by restoring from your recovery phrase in the device setup flow. If you do not have the recovery phrase, you cannot access the funds — that is why offline, durable storage of the phrase is critical.
Privacy & account safety
Ledger Live stores account information locally and queries blockchain networks to show balances. Your public addresses and balances are visible on-chain; protect the private keys and recovery phrase at all times. Consider using a separate machine for crypto management if you want extra isolation, and keep system software and antivirus updated.
When to contact Ledger support
Contact Ledger's official support if you experience a device malfunction, a firmware issue during update, or if you need help with a confirmed device problem. Do not follow support links or phone numbers provided in unsolicited emails. Always go to the official site and use the listed contact channels.
Final checklist before logout
- Lock your Ledger device or disconnect it when not in use.
- Close Ledger Live and remove the USB or disable Bluetooth pairing if finished on mobile.
- Store the recovery phrase securely and never reveal it to anyone.