Overview
Ledger Live is the companion application for Ledger hardware wallets that lets you manage accounts, send and receive crypto, check balances, and install apps on your device. When you “log in” to Ledger Live the app will typically ask you to open a supported app on your Ledger device and confirm actions directly on the device — Ledger hardware performs cryptographic signing locally and never asks for your recovery phrase.
What to prepare before opening Ledger Live
- Make sure your Ledger device is the genuine device you purchased and that its firmware is updated.
- Download Ledger Live only from the official Ledger website or verified app stores.
- Have your PIN ready: your device will usually request the device PIN when interacting with Ledger Live — this PIN is stored only on your device.
- Do NOT enter your recovery phrase anywhere. Ledger Live and Ledger devices never request the full recovery phrase after setup.
Typical secure access flow (what you will see)
The secure flow is centered around your hardware device. Expect the following steps:
- Open Ledger Live on your computer or mobile device.
- Connect your Ledger hardware via USB (desktop) or Bluetooth (mobile, if supported).
- Ledger Live will detect the device and may prompt you to allow the connection; confirm on the device screen.
- For sensitive actions (sending funds, installing apps), Ledger Live will ask you to open the specific cryptocurrency app on your Ledger device and then confirm the transaction directly on the device screen using the physical buttons.
- Successful authentication and signing happen only when you confirm on the hardware device — this prevents remote attackers from signing transactions silently.
Safety checklist — avoid common scams
If anything requests your 24-word recovery phrase, an account password, or a one-time code in an unexpected way, stop immediately. Treat unsolicited links and browser popups with suspicion.
- Verify the URL when you download Ledger Live. Double-check the domain and use bookmarks to avoid typosquatting.
- Never share your recovery phrase — Ledger staff will never ask for it.
- Be cautious of browser extensions that claim to "integrate" with Ledger Live — only use official integrations and review permissions.
- Enable system and app updates; many attacks exploit out-of-date software.
Troubleshooting common access issues
If Ledger Live fails to detect your device: check the cable and USB port, try a different port, ensure the device screen is awake, and confirm the firmware is not in an unexpected state. On mobile, if using Bluetooth, ensure the device is paired in system Bluetooth settings and that power saving modes are disabled for the app.
If an operation hangs, close Ledger Live, disconnect and reconnect the device, and reopen the app. If the problem continues, consult official Ledger support resources rather than random forum posts.
Privacy & account protection
Ledger Live can display balances and transactions for public addresses — these are public blockchain records. Protect your privacy by limiting where you share addresses and by understanding address reuse risks. Use separate accounts for different purposes if needed.
Recovery and emergency planning
Your recovery phrase is the ultimate backup. Store it offline in a secure place (preferably physically engraved or stored in a safe). Do not photograph or store it in cloud services. If you lose your device, you can restore access using your recovery phrase on a compatible device — but only do this on trusted hardware or software wallets you control.
Quick FAQ
Q: Does Ledger Live ever ask for the recovery phrase after setup?
A: No. If something requests your recovery phrase after setup, it is malicious.
Q: What if Ledger Live asks for an update?
A: Software and firmware updates are common. Verify update prompts in the app and confirm on the device before proceeding.