Getting Started™

Ledger® Live: Login & First‑Time Setup

Welcome! This page walks you through your first login and setup in Ledger® Live—from verifying your device to adding accounts and securing your recovery phrase. Whether you’re brand‑new to crypto or returning with a fresh device, you’ll find simple, reliable steps that keep you in control of your keys. Nothing sensitive is stored in the app; critical approvals happen on your hardware device.

Download for Desktop Get it on Mobile Windows • macOS • Linux • iOS • Android
Non‑custodial
Your keys never leave the device. The app coordinates, you approve.
NFT Ready
Preview, receive, and send NFTs with clear contract cues.
Privacy
Opt‑out telemetry; connect only what you choose.

Before You Begin

Grab your Ledger hardware wallet, a USB cable (or Bluetooth where supported), and a quiet place to write down your recovery phrase. Never take photos of the phrase or store it online.

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1) Download Ledger Live

Install Ledger Live from the official source that matches your operating system. Avoid third‑party links and never trust ads. On desktop, the installer will guide you through permissions and automatic updates. On mobile, confirm the publisher details in the app store before installing.

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2) Unbox & Inspect

Examine the device packaging for tampering. Ledger devices verify authenticity during setup; you should still check that the box was not resealed and that accessories match the guide.

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3) Prepare to Back Up

Have pen and paper ready. When the device shows your 24‑word recovery phrase, write each word in order. Do not type it into a computer or take a photo. Anyone with this phrase can access your funds.

Ledger Live Login: Step‑by‑Step

The first “login” is really a secure pairing between your Ledger device and the Ledger Live app. The app never learns your private keys; it reads public information from the blockchain and asks your device to sign when needed.

Initialize the Device

  • Power on: Connect the device. Use the buttons to navigate and select.
  • Create a PIN: Choose a PIN you can remember but others can’t guess. Confirm it on the device.
  • Write the phrase: The device will display 24 words. Write them—twice. Confirm on the device by selecting displayed words in order.
  • Install apps: In Ledger Live, go to “My Ledger” and install coin apps for the assets you plan to use.

Pair & First Sync

Open Ledger Live and choose “Get Started.” The app will check your device connection and firmware. Follow the prompts to enable analytics (optional), set a password lock for the app, and configure privacy options.

Tip: Enable “Password lock” in Settings → Security to protect your balances from casual snooping on your computer or phone.

Add Your First Account

Click “Accounts” → “Add account.” Select a network (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana), then open the matching app on your device. Ledger Live will derive public addresses and sync the transaction history for that account.

Receive Funds Safely

Use “Receive,” pick the account, and display the address both on the computer and on the device screen. If the addresses match, it’s safe to share the address or QR code with the sender.

Send with Confidence

Use “Send,” paste the recipient address, choose the amount, and review fees. Your device will show the transaction details—network, amount, address—so malware can’t substitute an address in the background.

Troubleshooting Login & Connectivity

Most first‑time issues are easy to fix. Work through the suggestions below before contacting support.

Device Not Detected

  • Try a different USB port or cable. Avoid hubs for the first setup.
  • Unlock the device with your PIN and open the requested coin app.
  • Enable Ledger Live’s “Developer mode” only if support asks you to.

Firmware Out of Date

Go to “My Ledger” and update the firmware when prompted. Back up your recovery phrase first. After the update, reinstall coin apps if needed—your funds are safe because keys are derived from the phrase.

Sync or Balance Mismatch

Click “Sync” in Accounts, verify network status, and confirm you’re viewing the correct account path. For tokens, ensure the parent chain account exists and the token is added.

Security Essentials

Security is a habit. These practices turn your Ledger Live login into a strong daily routine.

Protect the Recovery Phrase

  • Store the 24 words offline, in multiple secure locations if possible.
  • Never enter the phrase into a website, app, or “support” chat.
  • Consider a steel backup to resist water and fire.

Warning: No legitimate support agent will ever ask for your 24 words. If someone does, it’s a scam.

Harden the App & Device

  • Enable app password and auto‑lock; use biometrics on mobile if available.
  • Keep firmware and Ledger Live up to date.
  • Use separate accounts for long‑term holds vs. spending.
  • Verify receiving addresses on the device before each send.

Explore After Login

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, Ledger Live helps you grow your skills at your own pace.

Portfolio Overview

See balances across accounts with real‑time fiat values. Filter by network, tag accounts, and export CSVs for personal bookkeeping. The dashboard highlights recent activity and provides quick entry points for send/receive.

NFT Collections

Browse NFTs in a dedicated gallery. Ledger Live surfaces collection names, token IDs, and contract addresses so you can spot spoofed items before interacting.

Connect to Web3

Use Ledger’s secure bridge to connect to dApps. Your device shows human‑readable transaction prompts—approve or reject with confidence, without exposing your seed phrase.

Swaps & Bridges

Compare routes and network fees before confirming. Providers are integrated directly in the interface, but you stay in control by signing on your device.

Staking & Earn

Stake supported assets to earn rewards while retaining custody. APRs, lockups, and validator details appear up front, so you can decide with clarity.

Privacy Controls

Opt‑out analytics, per‑account connections, and a clear activity log make it easy to understand what the app shares—and what it never does.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a “username and password” for Ledger Live?

Ledger Live can be locked with a local password or biometrics, but your true access is controlled by your device and recovery phrase. There is no online account that can recover funds for you.

What if I forget my app password?

You can reset the app and restore accounts by reconnecting your device. Your funds aren’t in the app; they’re on the blockchain, controlled by your seed phrase.

Can I use Ledger Live without a device?

You can explore and track, but to send transactions securely you should connect a Ledger device so signing happens on the secure element.

Are my NFTs visible on mobile?

Yes, supported networks show NFT previews and details on both desktop and mobile so you can verify items before sending.

How do I move funds from another wallet?

Send crypto to the receive address of your Ledger account. For tokens, ensure you’re on the correct network and have enough native coin for gas.

What happens if my device is lost?

Buy a new compatible device and restore using your 24‑word recovery phrase. Set a new PIN during restore. Consider adding a passphrase for advanced compartmentalization.

Best Practices for Daily Use

  • Verify addresses on the device every time you receive or send.
  • Use labels and tags to separate long‑term storage from spending.
  • Keep firmware and coin apps updated; revisit security settings monthly.

Know the Risks

Crypto is volatile. Smart‑contract risks, phishing, and user error can lead to loss. Start small, double‑check details, and never rush a transaction. If something feels off, reject the prompt on your device.

Ready to Log In?

Install Ledger Live, connect your device, and follow the on‑screen guide. You’ll be managing crypto and NFTs with hardware‑backed confidence in minutes.

Download Ledger Live Pair Your Device

Always verify downloads from official sources.

Important Notes & Disclaimers

This landing page is for educational and marketing demonstration purposes only. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or maintained by Ledger. Ledger®, Ledger Live®, and related marks are trademarks of their respective owners. Always verify that you are installing Ledger Live from official sources and purchasing devices from authorized sellers.

Some features—such as on‑ramps, swaps, bridges, and staking—are provided by third‑party partners and may require identity verification depending on your region. Fees, rates, and availability change over time. Review partner terms carefully before using any service.