Ledger Live Login represents a fundamental shift from traditional software authentication. Unlike password-based systems, Ledger® Live uses hardware-based security that requires physical possession of your Ledger® device. This approach ensures that even if your computer is compromised, your cryptocurrency assets remain protected.
The Ledger Live App doesn't store passwords or private keys on your computer. Instead, it acts as an interface that communicates with your hardware wallet, where all sensitive operations are physically confirmed on the device itself.
Physical device required for access
Entered directly on your device
Private keys never leave your device
Open the Ledger Live App on your computer. If you haven't installed it yet, download from Ledger.com.
Connect your Ledger® hardware wallet (Nano S, Nano S Plus, or Nano X) via USB cable.
Type your PIN directly on your Ledger® device - never on the computer keyboard.
Navigate to the specific cryptocurrency app on your device and open it to enable transactions.
Security Advantage: The Ledger Live Login process ensures that your private keys never leave the secure element of your hardware device. Even if malware infects your computer, it cannot access your funds without physical access to your Ledger® device and PIN.
If this is your first time using Ledger Live, visit Ledger.com/start for guided setup instructions. The initial configuration includes:
If Ledger Live Desktop doesn't detect your device:
For persistent connection issues:
Security Warning: Never enter your recovery phrase on any website or software other than your Ledger® device itself. Legitimate Ledger Live Login never asks for your recovery phrase.
Ledger® Live uses hardware-based authentication instead of passwords because it's fundamentally more secure. Passwords can be stolen through phishing, keyloggers, or database breaches. Hardware authentication requires physical possession of your device, making remote attacks impossible.
If you lose your device but have your 24-word recovery phrase, you can restore your entire wallet on a new Ledger® device. Your funds are safe as long as your recovery phrase remains secure. Without the recovery phrase, lost devices result in permanent fund loss.
No. Without physical access to your Ledger® device and knowledge of your PIN, a stolen computer provides no access to your funds. The Ledger Live App on your computer contains no private keys or sensitive information that could compromise your wallet.
Ledger Live Desktop automatically checks for updates. When available, you'll see a notification in the app. Updates can be installed directly through Ledger Live by going to Settings > Help > Update. Regular updates are essential for security and new features.
Yes, Ledger Live Mobile offers similar functionality for iOS and Android. The mobile app connects to Ledger® Nano X via Bluetooth or Nano S/S Plus via USB OTG. The login process follows the same hardware-based security principles as the desktop version.
If you forget your PIN, you can reset your device using your 24-word recovery phrase. This process wipes the device, allowing you to set a new PIN and restore your accounts. Without the recovery phrase, a forgotten PIN means permanent loss of access to your funds.