What “login” means in Ledger Live
Ledger Live does not create a cloud account with username/password. Instead, access and transaction approvals rely on:
- Ledger hardware device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, Stax) — private keys remain isolated on the device.
- Device PIN — entered on the device to unlock and sign transactions.
- Optional app lock — a Ledger Live password or mobile biometric lock to protect the local app interface.
Because signatures happen on-device, a compromised computer cannot move funds without physical possession of the device and the device PIN.
Download & install Ledger Live
- Always begin at the official page: Ledger.com/Start.
- Select the correct installer for your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux) or install the official mobile app from the App Store / Google Play (publisher: Ledger SAS).
- Run the installer and launch Ledger Live. Allow updates when prompted — they include security patches and device support.
Tip: Bookmark Ledger.com/Start and verify the app publisher when downloading from an app store to avoid phishing.
Desktop access flow — step by step
- Open Ledger Live. If you enabled it, enter your local app password (Settings → Security).
- Connect your Ledger device to the computer using a data-capable USB cable.
- Enter your device PIN directly on the hardware wallet to unlock it.
- Open the blockchain app on your device (for example, Bitcoin app for BTC) when prompted; Ledger Live will then display your accounts and balances.
Viewing portfolio balances without the device is possible only when app password protection is disabled; sending or signing requires the physical device and PIN.
Mobile access & pairing
- Install Ledger Live Mobile from the official app store and protect it with a password or biometric if available.
- Pair your Ledger device: Nano X uses Bluetooth pairing inside Ledger Live; Nano S Plus uses USB OTG on supported Android devices.
- Enter the device PIN on the hardware wallet to confirm pairing and to sign transactions.
Tip: Turn off Bluetooth when not pairing to reduce exposure on mobile devices.
Signing transactions — always verify on-device
When you send crypto, Ledger Live prepares an unsigned transaction and forwards it to your Ledger device for signing. The device displays the exact recipient address, amount, and network fee. Always verify these details on the device screen before approving. If anything differs from what you expect, cancel and re-check — only the device screen can be trusted.
Warning: Never approve a transaction unless every field shown on the hardware matches your intent.
Common login issues & quick fixes
- Device not detected: Try another USB cable/port, avoid USB hubs, restart Ledger Live and your device, and ensure Ledger Live is up to date.
- Bluetooth pairing fails (Nano X): Forget the device in system Bluetooth settings, re-pair from Ledger Live, and keep devices close during pairing.
- App crashes or won’t open: Clear the app cache (Settings → Help → Clear cache), reinstall Ledger Live from the official site, and restart your system.
- Forgot app password: Reset Ledger Live and reconnect your hardware wallet — your funds remain safe because keys are on-device and recoverable with your recovery phrase.
Lost device & recovery
If your Ledger device is lost, damaged, or stolen, you can restore your wallet on a new compatible device using your 24-word recovery phrase. If the recovery phrase is lost or exposed, funds may be unrecoverable — store the phrase offline, in secure locations (consider a metal backup).
Security checklist — before every session
- Download Ledger Live only from Ledger.com/Start or official app stores.
- Never enter or share your 24-word recovery phrase — Ledger will never ask for it.
- Verify addresses and amounts on the Ledger device screen before approving transactions.
- Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated to receive security patches.
- Use app passwords or biometrics on shared devices for extra protection.
