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

A user-friendly step-by-step presentation to login, set up, and secure your Ledger® hardware wallet using Ledger Live.

Overview

Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. This presentation covers how to download and install Ledger Live, how to login and pair your device, how to manage crypto accounts, and how to adopt strong security habits. The content is written for beginners but includes notes for advanced users.

1. Login & first connection

  • 1.1 Download Ledger Live

    Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website to avoid phishing: use the official Ledger download page (link in the sidebar). Choose the appropriate installer for your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux) or the mobile app for iOS/Android.

  • 1.2 Open Ledger Live and select "Get Started"

    Launch Ledger Live and choose whether you already have a Ledger device or are setting up a new one. Selecting “Already have a device” lets you pair and restore accounts.

  • 1.3 Connect your Ledger device

    Plug your Ledger Nano S Plus or Nano X into your computer via USB or use Bluetooth (Nano X). Confirm the device unlock PIN on the hardware to permit the connection.

  • 1.4 Enter Ledger Live password (optional)

    When Ledger Live prompts, set a strong local password to protect your app interface. This password is stored locally and does not replace your device PIN or recovery phrase.

2. Install apps & add accounts

Ledger Live manages apps (small blockchain client apps) for different blockchains. Use the Manager tab to install the required app for the asset you want to manage, then add accounts for that asset.

  1. Open Manager & allow Ledger Live to detect your device.
  2. Search the app (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) and click Install — free and official apps come from Ledger.
  3. After installing, go to Accounts → Add account → choose the blockchain → follow on-screen prompts while confirming on-device when required.

3. Check balances & send/receive

Ledger Live shows aggregated portfolio value, individual account balances, and transaction history. To receive funds, select an account and click "Receive" — verify the address on your hardware device before sharing it. To send funds, click "Send", enter the recipient address and confirm on-device.

4. Security essentials

Ledger hardware wallets provide protection by keeping private keys off your computer. Key recommended practices:

  • Keep your Recovery Phrase (24 words) private and offline. Never share it. Ledger will never ask for it.
  • Use a strong device PIN and a separate Ledger Live password.
  • Enable passphrase (optional, advanced) only if you understand the risks — it creates hidden wallets.
  • Keep firmware and Ledger Live up to date via official channels.
Warning: Never enter your recovery phrase into any app, website, or chat — not Ledger Live and not any support rep. If asked, it's a scam.

5. Backups & recovery

If your device is lost or damaged, restore funds using the Recovery Phrase on a new Ledger device or compatible BIP39-compatible wallet. Store your backup in at least two secure, geographically separated locations (e.g., a safety deposit box, fireproof safe).

6. Updates & maintenance

Keep both Ledger Live and your device firmware updated. Ledger Live will notify you of firmware updates; read the release notes and follow the update flow. Only update when connected directly to the official Ledger Live app and Ledger servers.

7. Troubleshooting

  1. If the device isn't detected: try new USB cable, different port, or restart Ledger Live.
  2. If an account shows a zero balance: ensure the correct app is installed on the device and resync the account.
  3. For persistent issues, consult official Ledger support links below before using third-party help.

8. Advanced features (optional)

Ledger Live also supports Staking, Swap (partner integrations), and the Portfolio manager. Some advanced features use third-party partners; carefully review partner terms and permissions before authorizing.

9. Common UI walkthrough

Dashboard → Accounts → Manager → Buy / Swap → Send / Receive → Settings. The UI places frequent actions on the left-hand navigation; most flows will prompt on-device confirmation which is the last authority.

10. Closing checklist

  • Downloaded Ledger Live from official site.
  • Installed necessary blockchain apps in Manager.
  • Created a secure backup of Recovery Phrase offline.
  • Verified addresses on-device before sending/receiving.
  • Updated firmware & Ledger Live when available.
Need more help? Use the official Ledger support resources linked to the right. Always verify you are on ledger.com before entering or downloading anything.