Ledger® Live — Login & Getting Started™
Ledger Live connects you to your cryptocurrency and NFT world using a hardware-backed login flow. Instead of passwords stored online, you authenticate by connecting your Ledger device and confirming actions on its secure screen. This guide helps you login safely, pair your device, add accounts, and follow smart security habits so you can manage your funds with confidence.
Hardware-First Authentication
Your Ledger device is the key: connect it, enter your PIN and approve login on the device screen. Private keys never leave the hardware.
Unified Portfolio
See balances, NFTs, transaction history and staking rewards across accounts in one polished dashboard.
On-Device Confirmation
Every signature and login is shown on your Ledger screen; verify addresses and amounts before approving — the device is the single source of truth.
Step 1 — Prepare
Make sure you have your Ledger hardware (Nano family), original cable or Bluetooth capability, and your 24-word recovery phrase written down and stored offline. Never share your recovery phrase or store it digitally.
Step 2 — Download Ledger Live
Download the Ledger Live app for desktop or mobile from the official Ledger site. Verify the download when checksums or signatures are provided so you get an authentic installer.
Step 3 — Connect & Login
Open Ledger Live, connect your device, enter your PIN, and follow the prompts to pair. Ledger Live does not hold your keys — it requests signatures and your Ledger confirms them.
Step 4 — Add Accounts & Test
Add accounts for the assets you hold, sync balances and try a small test transaction. Confirm every step on your Ledger device to make sure addresses and amounts are unchanged by software-level tampering.
Security Essentials
- Confirm everything on-device. The Ledger screen is your ultimate point of truth.
- Never share your recovery phrase. Keep it offline in a safe place, ideally on a metal or secure paper backup.
- Install only official software. Download Ledger Live from the official site and verify signatures when available.
- Update firmware via Ledger Live. Updates fix issues and strengthen security — follow official prompts.
- Beware of phishing. Type URLs manually and avoid links from unknown sources.
- Use passphrases carefully. A passphrase creates hidden accounts but losing it means losing access to those funds.
Frequently Asked Questions
No — Ledger Live does not create a cloud account that stores your keys. Your hardware device and recovery phrase are your credentials.
You can reset the device, but you'll need your recovery phrase to restore funds. Keep the phrase secure and private.
Yes — watch-only mode lets you monitor public addresses, but sending or signing transactions requires the physical Ledger device.