Ledger Live Login: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Securely access your crypto portfolio with Ledger Live. Follow this detailed, step-by-step login process to ensure safe and efficient management of your digital assets.
1 Prepare Your Ledger Device

Begin by locating your Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X). Ensure the device is charged — for Nano X, a full charge is recommended; for Nano S/S Plus, connect via USB. Turn on the device by pressing the button (or both buttons on Nano S). Enter your PIN code using the physical buttons when prompted. The PIN must be 4–8 digits and was set during initial setup. Never share your PIN with anyone.

Once unlocked, navigate to the Ledger Live app icon on your device screen using the buttons and confirm by pressing both buttons simultaneously. The device will display “Open Ledger Live on your computer” or similar.

2 Download and Install Ledger Live

If you haven’t installed Ledger Live yet, visit the official website: ledger.com/start. Click “Download Ledger Live” and select your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). Avoid third-party sources to prevent malware.

Run the installer file (.exe for Windows, .dmg for macOS). Follow on-screen prompts. On macOS, drag the app to Applications folder. On Windows, allow the app through firewall if prompted. Launch Ledger Live after installation. The app will check for updates automatically — always keep it updated for security patches.

3 Connect Your Ledger Device

Plug your Ledger device into your computer using the original USB cable. For Nano X users, you can also connect via Bluetooth: enable Bluetooth on both devices, then in Ledger Live, select “Connect via Bluetooth” when prompted.

In Ledger Live, you’ll see a welcome screen. Click “Get Started”. The app will detect your connected Ledger device. If it says “Genuine check in progress”, wait for verification. This ensures your device is authentic and not tampered with. A green checkmark confirms authenticity.

Security Tip: Never use a Ledger device from unknown sources. Always buy directly from Ledger or authorized resellers.
4 Set Up or Access Existing Portfolio

If this is your first time, select “Set up a new device” and follow recovery phrase backup prompts (write down 24 words on the provided card). If you already have a portfolio, choose “Already have a device”.

Ledger Live will ask: “Do you have a recovery phrase?” Select “Yes” if restoring, or “No” if setting up fresh. For login to an existing account, choose “Restore from recovery phrase” only if needed. Most users simply connect the device and proceed.

Once connected, your dashboard loads with your portfolio overview. No login credentials are required — your private keys remain on the hardware device.

5 Unlock Ledger Live Dashboard

After connection, Ledger Live displays your accounts. The left sidebar shows “Portfolio”, “Accounts”, “Send”, “Receive”, etc. Your device must remain connected and unlocked to sign transactions.

To view balances, click “Accounts”. Each cryptocurrency (BTC, ETH, etc.) appears as a separate account. Click any account to see transaction history. Balances update in real time when online.

Use the search bar to find specific assets. Enable “Manager” from the sidebar to install/uninstall apps on your Ledger device (required for certain coins).

6 Enable Two-Factor Authentication (Optional but Recommended)

Go to Settings (gear icon) > Security. Enable “Password Lock” to require a password when opening Ledger Live. This adds software-level protection.

For advanced users, integrate Ledger with third-party services (like MetaMask) via “Connect to Ledger” in those apps. Always verify the connection is genuine.

Never enter your 24-word recovery phrase into any website or app except your Ledger device during recovery.
7 Perform Transactions Securely

To send crypto: Go to “Send”, select account, enter recipient address, amount, and fees. Review details on your Ledger device screen. Physically confirm by pressing buttons. The transaction signs offline — your keys never leave the device.

To receive: Go to “Receive”, select account, generate address. Verify the address matches exactly on your Ledger screen before sharing. Copy and share only the verified address.

8 Update Firmware and Apps

In Ledger Live, go to “Manager”. If updates are available, you’ll see notifications. Install firmware updates only when prompted — follow on-screen device instructions carefully. Keep apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) updated for compatibility and security.

Never interrupt firmware updates. Use a stable power source and avoid disconnecting the device mid-process.

9 Troubleshoot Common Login Issues
10 Safely Disconnect and Store

After use, close Ledger Live. Unplug or disconnect Bluetooth. Store your Ledger device and recovery phrase in separate, secure locations. Use a fireproof safe for the seed phrase. Never take photos or store digitally.

Enable screen saver on your device via Settings to auto-lock after inactivity.

You are now fully logged into Ledger Live with maximum security. Your assets are protected by offline key storage. Always verify transactions on your physical device. Stay vigilant against phishing — Ledger will never ask for your 24 words.