Ledger® Live: Login | Getting started™ with Ledger®
Introduction
This guide walks you through the first-time experience for Ledger® Live: from securely logging in and pairing your hardware wallet to using core features, troubleshooting common errors, and best practices to protect your keys. It’s written for beginners and intermediate users who want a reliable, step-by-step onboarding.
Quick table of contents
- Prepare: requirements & safety (h3)
- Download & install Ledger Live (h3)
- Login & pairing steps (h3)
- First transactions & accounts (h3)
- Security checklist & recovery (h3)
- Troubleshooting & FAQ (h3)
1. Prepare: requirements & safety
What you need before you start
Device: a Ledger hardware wallet (Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X or similar). Ensure it’s purchased from an authorized seller. Never trust unknown resellers.
Computer/phone: a modern OS and USB/BT capability. Ledger Live supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
Internet: required for downloads and broadcasting transactions.
Safety-first reminders
- Never share your 24-word recovery phrase with anyone. Ledger support will never ask for it.
- Always check apps and firmware updates only from Ledger’s official sources.
- Use a strong device passcode and enable all available security options.
2. Download & install Ledger Live
Download steps
- Visit the official Ledger download page (type the URL manually or use a verified bookmark).
- Choose your OS and download the Ledger Live installer.
- Install and open the application. Allow any OS prompts (USB/Bluetooth permissions).
NOTE
Always verify the app signature or checksum if you are unsure. Avoid third-party installers.
3. Login & pairing steps
Initial pairing with a new device
- Open Ledger Live and choose Get started.
- Select your device model and follow the on-screen flow: create a new device or restore from a recovery phrase.
- Set a secure PIN on the Ledger device. Confirm it twice on the physical device.
- Write down your 24-word recovery phrase on the supplied recovery sheet. Store it offline in a safe place.
- In Ledger Live, add an account by selecting the cryptocurrency and following the prompts to sync addresses.
Logging in for returning users
If you've already set up your device, connect it, enter your PIN on the device, open Ledger Live, and unlock. Ledger Live authenticates transactions by requiring confirmation directly on the hardware device.
4. First transactions & accounts
Adding accounts
Use Add account to import the supported currencies or tokens. Ledger Live will scan and discover your existing addresses when the device is connected.
Sending & receiving
- To receive: Open the asset account > Receive > verify the address on your device.
- To send: Open account > Send > enter recipient > verify transaction details on your device > confirm.
Always verify addresses on the physical device display — never trust the host computer’s screen alone.
5. Security checklist & recovery
Best practices
- Keep firmware up to date but only through Ledger Live official updates.
- Use passphrase features only if you fully understand the consequences (it's like a second seed).
- Back up the 24-word phrase in multiple secure locations.
Recovery steps (if device lost)
Purchase a new compatible hardware wallet and restore using your 24-word recovery phrase. Treat the restoration process with the same safety checks as the original setup.
6. Troubleshooting & FAQ
Common issues
Device not recognized: try a different USB cable/port and enable USB permissions. Reboot device and Ledger Live.
Sync errors: check network connectivity and update Ledger Live to the latest version.
App crashes: clear cache in Ledger Live settings (if available), reinstall the app from official sources.
If you’re ever unsure
Do not enter your recovery phrase into any website or share it with anyone. Contact official support via Ledger’s official channels.