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

This guide walks you through everything you need to know to get started with Ledger® Live: how to download and install, create or restore an account, securely log in, manage apps and firmware, common troubleshooting tips, and security best practices. The article uses clear step-by-step instructions, accessible headings (H1–H5), and vibrant styling for easy reading.

Overview

Ledger Live is the official companion application for Ledger hardware wallets. It provides a single interface to manage many cryptocurrencies, check balances, receive/send transactions, and interact with third-party apps (DeFi, NFTs, etc.) while keeping private keys safe on the device.

What you'll need

A Ledger hardware device (e.g., Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X).
A computer (Windows/macOS/Linux) or mobile device (iOS/Android).
A USB cable or Bluetooth (for Nano X) for connection.
Your 24-word recovery phrase (only if restoring a wallet; never share it).

Who should read this

Beginners setting up Ledger for the first time, users migrating to Ledger Live, and experienced users who want a concise security and troubleshooting checklist.

Download & install Ledger Live

Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website to avoid scams. Ledger provides desktop and mobile versions.

Steps to download

Visit the official download page: Ledger Live - Official.
Pick your platform: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS or Android.
Download the installer and follow the platform-specific prompts.

Desktop install tips

On Windows, allow the installer through SmartScreen if needed. On macOS, you may need to allow the app in System Preferences > Security & Privacy — only do this for the official installer.

Mobile install tips

On Android, install via Google Play. On iOS, use the App Store. For Android users who sideload, be cautious — official Play Store is safest.

Ledger Live itself uses device-based authentication. You don’t create a password with Ledger Live that manages your keys — your Ledger device signs all transactions with the private keys stored on it.

Opening Ledger Live for the first time

Launch Ledger Live.
Accept the terms and choose whether to allow telemetry (optional).
Choose between Create a new device or Restore a device.
Follow on-screen instructions; Ledger Live will guide you through connecting and initializing your hardware wallet.

Important distinction: Ledger Live account vs device

Ledger Live stores a local profile and cached account information — this is not the same thing as your private keys. The device (Ledger hardware) is the source of truth for signing transactions. Losing Ledger Live doesn’t lose your crypto provided you have your recovery phrase and device.

PIN and recovery phrase

During setup you set a PIN for local device unlocking. The 24-word recovery phrase is generated by the device — write it down carefully and store in a secure location (and only offline).

Create or restore a wallet

Creating a new wallet

Choose "Set up as new device" in Ledger Live and connect your device.
Pick a PIN on your hardware device (never digitally record your PIN).
Write down the 24-word recovery phrase exactly as shown — keep it offline and private.
Confirm the recovery words when asked to make sure you copied them correctly.
Ledger Live will complete the onboarding and allow you to add accounts.

Restoring from an existing recovery phrase

Choose "Restore device" and follow prompts on the Ledger device.
Enter recovery words using the device interface (never type them into a computer).
Once restored, connect to Ledger Live and add accounts to resynchronize balances and transaction history.

Adding crypto accounts in Ledger Live

Once the device is set up, use Ledger Live's Manager to install necessary coin apps on the device and then add accounts (BTC, ETH, etc.) in the Accounts tab.

How accounts work

Ledger Live reads public addresses derived from your recovery phrase. Your private keys remain on-device and never leave it.

Firmware updates & app management

Ledger devices occasionally receive firmware updates that improve security and add features. Ledger Live provides a safe way to update device firmware — always use Ledger Live for firmware updates.

Updating device firmware

Open Ledger Live and connect your device.
If a firmware update is available, Ledger Live will notify you under the "Manager" or "Notifications" area.
Follow on-screen instructions; confirm update directly on the device.

Why updates are important

Firmware updates can patch vulnerabilities and ensure compatibility with newer protocols. Skipping critical firmware updates can cause problems with new accounts or apps.

Installing coin apps

After updating, use Ledger Live Manager to install coin-specific apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). The app size is limited by device storage — uninstalling an app does not remove the associated accounts or funds; the private keys remain safe on the seed.

Security: best practices (must-read)

Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone. Ledger staff or support will never ask for it. Ledger Live support will also never ask you to enter your recovery phrase into software or a website.

Key security rules

Write down your recovery phrase on paper (or use a steel backup). Store it in a secure, offline place.
Never enter the recovery phrase online. Do not store it in cloud notes, email, or pictures.
Use an obscured location for storage — safe, deposit box, or other secure physical storage.
Beware of phishing — always verify you are on official sites and confirm URLs carefully.
Keep firmware & Ledger Live up to date.

Recognizing scams

Scammers often impersonate Ledger via fake websites, emails, or social media. Look for spelling mistakes, unusual domain names, or unsolicited messages asking for seed words or PINs.

Extra protections

Use a passphrase (advanced) to create an additional layer over your seed (BIP39 passphrase). This is optional and must be carefully managed — losing it means your funds may be unrecoverable.
Consider a metal seed backup for fire/water resistance.
Keep a small test transaction when using a new setup to confirm everything works.

Common troubleshooting

Device not recognized by Ledger Live

Try a different USB cable or USB port.
Ensure the device shows the Ledger logo and that it is unlocked (enter PIN).
Close and reopen Ledger Live. On Windows, try restarting the computer.
Check OS permissions (macOS may require you to allow the app).

App/coin not showing balance

Make sure the coin app is installed on your device and that you've added the corresponding account in Ledger Live. Balances are rebuilt by syncing with the network — sometimes re-syncing helps.

Failed transaction signing

Confirm the device firmware & app versions are compatible with Ledger Live. Make sure the transaction details match what you expect and confirm on the device display.

I lost my device — now what?

Don't panic. If you have your 24-word recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet on a new Ledger device or compatible wallet. If you do not have your recovery phrase, funds are irretrievable.

FAQ

Can Ledger Live be used without a Ledger device?

No. Ledger Live requires a hardware device to sign transactions securely. Ledger Live on its own cannot access your private keys.

What if I lose my recovery phrase?

If you lose it and you lose access to your device, sadly there is no way to recover the private keys. Keep the phrase secure and backed up.

Is Ledger Live open-source?

Ledger publishes many resources about their software and firmware; check official Ledger sources for the latest technical documentation.

How many addresses can I create?

As many as the derivation scheme allows. Ledger Live simplifies account management, but underlying derivation follows common wallet standards.

Useful links (10 official & helpful pages)

How to use these links

Use the official download and support links for the most reliable information. The "App Store" link above is a placeholder — confirm directly via the official Ledger site for the accurate App Store link for your region.

10 quick 'office' tips for daily Ledger Live use

These short productivity and safety tips help teams or individuals manage crypto from an office environment safely.

Maintain a secure, offline storage area for recovery phrases (lockbox or safe).
Use a dedicated workstation for crypto operations to reduce risk of accidental exposure.
Limit access: do not let casual colleagues touch hardware wallets.
Use test transactions when sending large amounts — confirm addresses carefully.
Document standard operating procedures for sign-off and approvals (especially in teams).
Keep Ledger Live and device firmware updated on the same schedule to avoid compatibility issues.
Use separate accounts for bookkeeping vs long-term cold storage for easy accounting.
When presenting balances or screenshots, redact sensitive addresses or use aggregated numbers.
Regularly back up accounting exports from Ledger Live (CSV) to an encrypted, access-controlled location.
Train staff on phishing attacks and never request seed phrases, even during troubleshooting.

Conclusion

Ledger Live, combined with a Ledger hardware wallet, provides one of the most secure ways for individuals and teams to manage cryptocurrency holdings. The keys remain on your device, firmware updates and official channels keep things current, and following strong security practices dramatically reduces risk.

Quick checklist before you go

Downloaded Ledger Live from the official site.
Initialized or restored your Ledger device while keeping recovery phrase offline.
Installed necessary coin apps via Ledger Live Manager.
Performed a small test transaction to confirm setup.
Stored your recovery phrase securely and informed only trusted parties (if applicable).

Final note:

When in doubt, consult Ledger's official support and community resources listed above. Avoid third-party tools or websites unless you’ve verified them through official channels.

Download Ledger Live