Ledger® Live — Login & Getting Started | Getting Started Guide

A step-by-step friendly guide to install Ledger Live, connect your Ledger device, log in, and follow best security practices.

Introduction

Ledger Live is the official companion application to Ledger hardware wallets — your local interface for managing accounts, sending & receiving crypto, tracking portfolio balances, and interacting with supported services. Ledger Live runs on desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux) and mobile (iOS, Android). :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

This guide covers the essentials: what you need before starting, how to download Ledger Live safely, how to connect and log in with your Ledger device, core security principles, and useful troubleshooting tips.

Prerequisites (What you need)

Hardware & software

  • A Ledger hardware device (Nano X, Nano S Plus, Stax, Flex — purchase only from Ledger’s official shop).
  • A computer or phone and a USB-C/USB cable (or Bluetooth for Nano X when using mobile).
  • Ledger Live downloaded from Ledger’s official site (never from search results or third-party stores).

Why official downloads matter

Download Ledger Live only from Ledger’s official pages (for example: ledger.com/start and the Ledger Live download page). Fake apps can steal seed phrases; always verify you’re on the official domain. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Download & Install Ledger Live

Step-by-step

  1. Visit the official Ledger start page and choose your device and OS. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
  2. Download the Ledger Live installer from the official Ledger Live download page. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
  3. Install and launch Ledger Live, then choose Get Started and follow the on-screen prompts.

After installation

Ledger Live will offer to update firmware on your device and add accounts. Keep your device connected and follow prompts on the device screen — never enter your recovery phrase into the computer or mobile. Official support articles explain the process in detail. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Login & Connect Your Ledger Device

Logging in (what to expect)

Ledger Live does not use a remote username/password for most core features — instead, it relies on your connected Ledger hardware to sign transactions. To start, open Ledger Live and plug in (or pair via Bluetooth) your Ledger device, unlock it with your PIN, and approve operations directly on the device.

Device prompts

All sensitive confirmations appear on the physical device screen; confirming on-device is the core security model: what you sign on Ledger is what gets broadcast. If anything asks you to enter your 24-word recovery phrase — that is always a scam.

Security Best Practices

Golden rules

  • Never enter or share your Secret Recovery Phrase (seed) with anyone or any app. Ledger will never ask for it. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
  • Download Ledger Live only from Ledger’s official site and verify file integrity when available. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
  • Keep firmware and Ledger Live up-to-date; apply updates only when you initiated them and when the device displays the update prompt.
  • Use a PIN and keep your recovery seed written down in a safe place (never stored as plain text on a connected device).

Advanced tips

For extra safety, buy Ledger devices directly from Ledger’s official shop, and consider using a hardware backup (Ledger Recovery Key) or metal backup for your recovery phrase. For developer integrations or advanced operations, consult Ledger’s developer documentation. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

Troubleshooting — common issues & fixes

Ledger not detected

  • Try a different USB cable/port (some cables are power-only).
  • Ensure device is unlocked (enter PIN) before Ledger Live attempts connection.
  • Restart Ledger Live and the computer / mobile device; reinstall Ledger Live if problems persist.

Ledger Live errors

Check the official support center for current error codes and step-by-step guides — Ledger Support provides troubleshooting articles for most issues. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

FAQ (quick answers)

Do I need an account to use Ledger Live?

No central account is required for core wallet features; your Ledger device is the authority. Some Ledger services (market, swap) may require additional steps that Ledger Live will explain when used.

Can I recover my wallet if my device is lost?

Yes — you can restore your accounts on any compatible Ledger device (or supported wallet) using your Secret Recovery Phrase (seed). Keep that phrase secure and offline.

10 Official Ledger Links (quick access)

Ledger — Home Ledger — Get Started Ledger Live — Overview Ledger Live — Download Support — Getting Started Support — Install Ledger Live Ledger Support Center Developers — Ledger Live Ledger Shop (Official) Supported Crypto Assets

Tip: bookmark the Ledger start and support pages for secure downloads and step-by-step official help.