Official Site® | Ledger Login® — Getting started

What is Ledger Login® and why it matters

Ledger Login® is the secure authentication flow used to access your Ledger account, pairing with Ledger hardware devices like Ledger Nano S and Nano X and the Ledger Live software. In the world of self-custody crypto wallets, your private keys are the ultimate authority — Ledger Login helps ensure only you can sign in and manage your assets by combining device-based security with easy-to-use software.

This guide is designed for new and returning users. You will learn how to prepare your device, set up Ledger Live, authenticate with Ledger Login, and practice safe routines so your funds remain protected.

Before you start — checklist

Make sure you have the following ready. These simple preparations reduce risk and speed up setup.

• A Ledger hardware device (Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X) that is in its original packaging.
• A personal computer or smartphone with a supported operating system and an up-to-date web browser (Chrome, Edge, Safari, or Firefox recommended).
• A reliable USB cable or Bluetooth (for Nano X) to connect your device.
• A private, quiet place where you can read and store your recovery phrase without interruptions or cameras.
• One or more external backups for your recovery phrase and a fireproof/waterproof storage method (metal seed storage is recommended for long-term durability).

Step 1 — Unbox and inspect your Ledger device

Start by inspecting the packaging. Ledger ships tamper-evident boxes; make sure seals are intact. If anything looks wrong, don’t use the device and contact support via the official Ledger website only.

1. Remove the device and accessories. Ledger devices typically include a USB cable and documentation.
2. Do a visual inspection for physical damage.
3. Confirm the firmware is up to date during setup — Ledger Live will guide you if an update is required.

Step 2 — Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the companion application that lets you manage accounts, send and receive assets, and install apps on your Ledger device.

Download and install

Only download Ledger Live from the official source. Do not trust links from social media or third-party websites. Visit the official Ledger website and choose the correct version for your operating system.

Once downloaded, install the app and open it. On first launch you will be given the option to set up a new device or recover an existing wallet.

Step 3 — Initialize your device

Follow Ledger Live’s guided flow. You will choose a PIN code and be shown a recovery phrase. Important security notes:

• Choose a PIN you will remember but that’s hard for others to guess. Avoid simple sequences like 1-2-3-4.
• Write the recovery phrase down by hand exactly as shown and keep it offline. Do not store it on a computer, phone, or cloud service.
• Ledger devices never ask you to type your recovery phrase into a computer. If any app or site requests it, that is a scam.

During initialization, Ledger Live will confirm the recovery phrase by asking you to select words on the device. Complete that test — it ensures you recorded it correctly.

Step 4 — Add accounts in Ledger Live

After initialization, add cryptocurrency accounts in Ledger Live for the coins you plan to hold. Click Manager to install the required apps on your device, then use Add account to create accounts.

• Each supported blockchain has a specific app (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.).
• Ledger Live will synchronize account balances and transaction history while your device remains connected.

How Ledger Login works — a simple explanation

Ledger Login leverages the hardware device’s private keys for authentication. Instead of entering a password that could be phished, you confirm actions on the device itself. This means that even if your computer is compromised, an attacker cannot sign transactions without the physical device and PIN.

Typical operations that require device confirmation include:

• Approving a transfer of funds.
• Generating a signature to log into a service that supports hardware wallets.
• Installing and uninstalling apps via Ledger Live Manager (requires physical confirmation).

Best practices — keep your Ledger secure

Security is more than just the device. Follow these best practices:

• Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger support will never ask for it.
• Store your recovery phrase in a safe place — ideally on a fireproof, waterproof backup plate.
• Use a strong, unique PIN and change it periodically if you suspect it was exposed.
• Keep Ledger Live up to date and only install official updates.
• Be wary of fake websites — always check the domain before entering information.

Troubleshooting common issues

Here are solutions to issues many users face during setup or everyday use.

Device not recognized

If your computer doesn’t detect the device:

• Try a different USB cable or port.
• Restart Ledger Live and reconnect the device.
• On mobile, ensure Bluetooth is enabled and that pairing is allowed on the device (Nano X).

Recovery phrase missing or lost

If you lose the recovery phrase, you can still use your device while powered, but you cannot recover the wallet if the device is lost or damaged. If you lose access, try to locate any backups. Otherwise, treat the funds as at risk and transfer them to a new wallet whose recovery phrase you control.

Firmware update failed

If an update fails, don’t panic. Follow these steps:

• Restart your device and computer.
• Try the update again using Ledger Live's recovery or update flow.
• If problems persist, consult official support channels — never share your recovery phrase with anyone.

Using Ledger Login for daily operations

With your device set up and accounts added, common activities become second nature:

1. Receive funds: Share your public address from Ledger Live. Confirm the address on your device for added safety before sharing.
2. Send funds: Create a transaction in Ledger Live, then physically confirm it on your device — verify amount and destination on the device screen.
3. Check balances: Ledger Live refreshes balances when connected; you can also check public addresses on block explorers for independent verification.

Advanced tips

Power users can increase safety and flexibility with these techniques:

• Use a passphrase (25th word) to create a hidden wallet. This offers plausible deniability but adds complexity — store your passphrase securely off-line.
• Set up multiple devices with the same recovery phrase as a redundancy measure (store them in different secure locations).
• Use a dedicated clean computer for high-value operations. A fresh OS image reduces contamination risk.

Safety checklist before sending large amounts

Before moving large sums, use this quick checklist:

• Verify the receiving address on the device screen.
• Send a small test transaction first.
• Confirm network fees and expected confirmation times.
• Ensure your computer and Ledger Live are updated.

Where to get help

If you encounter problems that aren’t covered here, use only official Ledger resources:

• Ledger Support pages and their official knowledge base.
• Ledger Live app prompts and in-app help.
• Official Ledger social channels — verify links from the Ledger website before clicking.

Summary — key takeaways

Ledger Login connects your hardware device to Ledger Live for secure account management. Protect your recovery phrase, verify actions on the device screen, and only use official sources for downloads and support. Following these steps will make your Ledger experience both secure and convenient.