Ledger® Live: Login | Getting started™ with Ledger®

A practical, security-first guide to installing Ledger Live, logging in, initializing your Ledger device, managing accounts, advanced workflows and best practices. This version contains no external links and is designed for offline or internal distribution.

Introduction

Ledger Live is the official application designed to work with Ledger hardware wallets. It provides a user-friendly interface for initializing devices, installing blockchain-specific apps on the device, adding and managing accounts, viewing portfolio balances, and preparing transactions to be signed by the hardware device. Because Ledger devices store private keys in a secure element that never leaves the device, Ledger Live acts as a trusted bridge between your offline keys and the online networks where transactions are broadcast.

Scope of this guide

This guide explains step-by-step how to safely start Ledger Live, how to connect and verify your Ledger device, how to perform essential security checks, and how to handle common troubleshooting scenarios. It also covers advanced features like passphrases, multisignature approaches, and air-gapped signing for users who need higher security. It is written for individuals, teams, and small organizations that want a single, compact resource to train staff or keep as a printable reference.

Preparing to install Ledger Live

Before installing Ledger Live, take a moment to prepare your environment. The setup process is straightforward but benefits from a few pre-checks to avoid mistakes.

  1. Confirm physical device condition: Ensure the Ledger device is unopened or shows no sign of tampering. If anything appears altered or damaged, stop and verify its source before proceeding.
  2. Choose a secure machine: Use a trusted computer or mobile device that is up-to-date with security patches. Avoid public or shared machines for initial setup and for handling recovery phrases.
  3. Gather backup materials: Use the recovery sheet that comes with the device or a durable backup plate if available. Prepare a pen and a clean, private workspace to write down the recovery phrase without interruptions.
  4. Plan for connectivity: You will need internet access to download and install the application and to sync account balances. If you prefer, perform device initialization offline and use a known-safe machine to connect later for app installation and transactions.

Installing and opening Ledger Live

Obtain the Ledger Live installer appropriate for your operating system and perform the installation following the usual application install flow for your platform. When Ledger Live launches it will present a concise onboarding flow: "Get started," "Set up as new device," "Restore device," or "Open an existing session." Choose the option that matches your needs. The application may also present a short tour of its features—read it for context or skip to the setup steps.

Note: Ledger Live can be installed without connecting a device. However, many functions such as installing apps and creating accounts require a connected Ledger device.

Connecting and verifying your Ledger device

When connecting your Ledger device for the first time, connect it directly to your computer using the provided cable. Do not use untrusted USB hubs or adapters during initial setup. The device screen will display a welcome message and should ask you to follow instructions presented in Ledger Live.

Important verification steps to perform:

  1. Confirm that the device displays the expected welcome message and shows the manufacturer's branding as appropriate for the model.
  2. Follow any on-screen prompts in Ledger Live which will check device authenticity and firmware signatures; confirm these checks on the device screen.
  3. Never enter your recovery phrase into Ledger Live on a web page or any dialog; all seed entry for device recovery is done using the device buttons and display.

Initializing a new device vs restoring

Initializing new device: Choose this if you have just unboxed the device and do not have a recovery phrase to restore. The device will prompt you to select a PIN and then generate a recovery phrase. Write the words down carefully, in order, on the provided recovery sheet. Confirm the words when prompted by the device. After confirmation, the device is initialized and can install blockchain apps and add accounts.

Restoring from a recovery phrase: Choose this if you are migrating from another hardware wallet or recovering an existing wallet. When restoring, the device will ask you to input the 24-word recovery phrase using the device's input method. Enter the words carefully and confirm. After a successful restore, the device will reconstruct your accounts and can be used immediately with Ledger Live.

Creating a strong PIN and security precautions

During initialization you will be prompted to choose a numeric PIN. The PIN protects the device if it is lost or stolen. Choose a PIN that is not based on easily guessable information (no birthdays, sequential numbers, or repeated digits). Memorize the PIN; do not write it on or near the device and do not store it in a digital note alongside your recovery phrase.

If too many incorrect PIN attempts are entered, the device will wipe itself. This is a security measure. Ensure your recovery phrase is securely stored before trying resets or recovery procedures.

The recovery phrase: handling, storage, and best practices

The recovery phrase (also called seed phrase) is the absolute master key to your funds. Treat it as you would a physical key to a safe or a bank vault. Best practices include: writing the phrase on the supplied recovery sheet, storing copies in secure, geographically separated locations, using a durable backup medium such as a steel plate for long-term storage, and never photographing or storing the phrase digitally. If someone gains access to your recovery phrase they can recreate your wallet and access your funds.

Consider an additional layer such as splitting the phrase across multiple trusted locations using secret-sharing techniques, or using a passphrase to create an additional hidden wallet. Be aware that passphrases add complexity and risk—if forgotten the hidden wallet is irretrievable.

Installing blockchain apps and adding accounts

Ledger devices use small on-device applications to interact with different blockchains (for example, Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Within Ledger Live, open the Manager section and install the apps you need onto the device. After installing an app, return to the accounts area in Ledger Live to add a new account; the application will query the device and list accounts derived from your recovery phrase. Note that some Ledger devices have limited app storage, and you may need to temporarily remove an app to install another; removing an app does not delete the underlying accounts or funds because the recovery phrase stores the keys.

Receiving and sending funds — on-device verification

To receive funds, create a receiving address in Ledger Live and always verify the address shown on your device's screen. Because malware can alter what is shown on your computer, trusting the device's display is essential. For sending funds, prepare the transaction in Ledger Live and then verify transaction details (recipient address, amount, fees) on the device before approving. Only transactions approved on the device are cryptographically signed.

Always perform a small test transaction when interacting with new services or sending large amounts for the first time. This practice reduces the risk from human error or service-specific issues.

Troubleshooting: common issues and how to resolve them

Here are practical steps for common problems encountered during setup and daily use.

  • Device not recognized by Ledger Live: Try a different USB cable and port; reconnect the device directly to the computer avoiding hubs. Restart Ledger Live and the host operating system. If on Linux, ensure appropriate udev rules are configured for the device.
  • Unexpected recovery phrase prompt outside the device: This is a critical red flag. Immediately disconnect the device and stop interacting with the application or website that prompted for the seed. Verify you are using the official Ledger Live application and consult trusted internal resources or support channels. Never enter your recovery phrase into any third-party application or web page.
  • Account balances not updating: Ensure that internet connectivity is stable and that Ledger Live is not in an offline mode. Refresh accounts or re-sync if necessary. Reinstall the blockchain-specific app on the device if an account fails to list correctly.
  • Forgotten PIN: If the PIN is forgotten you must reset the device to factory settings and restore from your recovery phrase. Do not reset unless you are certain the recovery phrase is securely stored.

Advanced workflows for higher security

For users and organizations that require greater resilience, consider advanced options such as:

  • Passphrase‑protected hidden wallets: A passphrase can derive additional wallets from the same recovery phrase. This provides plausible deniability and convenient separation but requires rigorous secret management.
  • Multisignature setups: Use multiple devices and signers to require a quorum for transactions. This is effective for organizational custody where no single person holds unilateral control.
  • Air‑gapped signing: Maintain a device that never connects to the internet and use unsigned transactions moved via QR codes or removable media to an online broadcaster. Signatures are created on the air‑gapped device and then transferred back for broadcasting.

Operational best practices and record keeping

Treat cryptocurrency operations like sensitive financial operations. Maintain clear records of transaction IDs, times, and the intended recipients for audits or tax purposes. Use dedicated machines for routine administrative tasks where feasible, and separate development, operational, and signing environments. Limit access to signing devices and maintain a written custody policy that details who may approve transactions and under what circumstances.

Privacy considerations

Blockchain data is public by design. To minimize address linkability, use distinct accounts for different purposes and avoid reusing addresses. For heightened privacy, consider using privacy-preserving tools and privacy-focused cryptocurrencies where appropriate, acknowledging local laws and regulations.

Final checklist before you begin regular use

  1. Verify device authenticity and firmware during setup.
  2. Store recovery phrase securely and consider durable backups.
  3. Use on-device verification for all transaction confirmations.
  4. Perform small test transactions with new counterparties or services.
  5. Consider multi-layer security for high-value holdings (multisig, air-gapped signing).