Ledger Live — Login & Access Guide
Overview
Ledger Live does not use a traditional online login (email + password). Instead, access is device-based: you "log in" by connecting and unlocking your Ledger hardware wallet (Ledger Nano X, Nano S Plus, etc.) and optionally unlocking the Ledger Live app with a local password. Transaction signing always requires physical confirmation on the hardware device.
Step-by-step: How to Access Ledger Live
- Install Ledger Live: Download from the official start page: ledger.com/start.
- Open the app: Launch Ledger Live on desktop or mobile.
- Connect your Ledger device: Use USB (or Bluetooth for Nano X) and make sure the device is powered on.
- Unlock device with PIN: Enter your device PIN on the hardware wallet to unlock it.
- Optional app password: If you set a Ledger Live password, enter it to open the app UI (this protects the app locally).
- Authorize actions: Any send, swap, or firmware action will require you to confirm details on the Ledger device screen.
Watch-only / View-Only Access
Ledger Live supports view-only accounts that allow you to monitor balances without connecting the device each time. You can add accounts and see balances and history, but you cannot sign or send transactions without the hardware wallet.
Using Ledger Live with Third-Party Apps
When connecting Ledger to third-party wallets (for example, some Web3 wallets), Ledger Live or the device acts as the signer. You still must confirm transaction details on the physical device before any action is finalized.
Security Best Practices
- Always download Ledger Live from
ledger.com/start. - Never share your 24-word recovery phrase — Ledger will never ask for it.
- Use a strong device PIN and enable a Ledger Live password if others use your computer.
- Verify all transaction addresses and amounts on the device screen before confirming.
- Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated to receive security patches.
Troubleshooting Login Issues
- Device not detected: Try a different USB cable/port, avoid hubs, and restart Ledger Live.
- App locked: If you forget the Ledger Live password you must restore using your recovery phrase on a fresh install (do this only in a secure environment).
- PIN forgotten: Your device must be reset and wallet restored from your recovery phrase—PIN cannot be recovered.
- Connection problems: Install/enable Trezor Bridge-like helpers only when needed (Ledger uses its own drivers/Bridge alternatives); ensure OS drivers and USB permissions are correct.
Quick Summary
Ledger Live login is hardware-first: connecting and unlocking your Ledger device (and entering any local app password) grants access. Sending or signing transactions always requires the physical device — which is the core security advantage of using Ledger Live with a Ledger hardware wallet.