Overview — What is Ledger Live?

Quick definition

Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application from Ledger that allows you to interact with your hardware wallet, view balances, send and receive supported cryptocurrencies, and manage apps on your device. This guide focuses on the Ledger Login — the process of connecting and authenticating your Ledger hardware (Nano S / Nano X) to Ledger Live.

Why secure login matters

Your Ledger Login links your physical device to the Ledger Live app. Unlike online-only wallets, the private keys never leave your hardware device — but proper login procedure prevents phishing and accidental exposure.

Prerequisites

  • Genuine Ledger device (Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.)
  • Latest Ledger Live installed from the official site. Get it: ledger.com/ledger-live
  • USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X) and your 24-word recovery phrase stored offline.
  • Optional: Ledger Live mobile app from official stores: Ledger Live Mobile

Step-by-step: Ledger Login to Ledger Live

1. Install Ledger Live

Download Ledger Live only from the official site. Avoid third-party links. Install and open the app.

2. Choose Initialize as new device or Restore device

If you already have a device, choose "Restore from recovery phrase". If brand new, follow the on-screen steps to create a PIN and generate the recovery phrase directly on the device.

3. Connect your device and open the Manager

Connect via USB or Bluetooth. Unlock the device with your PIN and open the Manager in Ledger Live to install the apps for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage.

4. Complete the Ledger Login flow

  1. In Ledger Live choose Get Started > Connect.
  2. Follow device prompts and confirm on the hardware when requested.
  3. Ledger Live will detect the device and pair it. Approve any requested operations directly on the device screen.

Pro tip

Always verify the pairing prompt on the device screen — never accept a pairing you didn't initiate. Your physical confirmation is the last defense against remote attacks.

Security checklist

  • Never enter your 24-word recovery phrase in any software or website. Ledger will never ask for your full recovery phrase online.
  • Keep firmware & Ledger Live updated from the official site: Firmware & updates.
  • Use a strong, unique PIN and store recovery phrase offline (paper or steel).
  • Enable additional OS-level protections (full-disk encryption, secure boot) where available.

Troubleshooting common login issues

Ledger Live not detecting device

Check cable, port, and device connection. Try a different USB cable or port. For Nano X, ensure Bluetooth permissions are allowed in your OS and that the device isn't paired with another app.

"Wrong PIN" or locked device

After multiple incorrect PIN attempts the device will wipe itself — only recoverable via your 24-word phrase. If you think your PIN was compromised, recover on a clean device and set a new PIN.

App compatibility and updates

If a currency app is missing, install it through the Ledger Live Manager. If you see errors, update Ledger Live and device firmware from the official sources.