Ledger Live Login — Securely Access Your Ledger Wallet

This guide explains how to log in to Ledger Live with your Ledger hardware device, what to verify on-device, and how to troubleshoot common login issues while keeping your funds safe.

Overview

Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile app for managing your Ledger hardware wallet. Logging in to Ledger Live requires connecting your physical Ledger device and authenticating using the device's PIN and optional passphrase. Ledger Live does not store your private keys — those remain inside the device's secure element and all sensitive confirmations must be approved on the device screen.

Quick login steps

  1. Open Ledger Live on your desktop or mobile device.
  2. Connect your Ledger device using the supplied USB cable or Bluetooth (Nano X only).
  3. Enter your PIN directly on the hardware device — never type your PIN into your computer or phone.
  4. Optionally enter a passphrase if you use hidden wallets.
  5. Verify the device fingerprint if prompted — confirm the short string shown in the app matches the device screen.
  6. Approve account access on the device; your accounts and balances will appear in Ledger Live.
Tip: When Ledger Live asks for confirmation, always check the details shown on the Ledger device’s physical screen — doing so prevents malicious software from changing transaction data.

PIN vs Passphrase — what's the difference?

PIN protects local access to the device. It’s entered on the device and prevents someone with physical access from using the Ledger without authorization. If you forget the PIN, you must reset the device and restore from your recovery phrase.

Passphrase is an optional extra secret (like a 25th word). It creates a hidden wallet derived from your seed. If you use a passphrase and forget it, the hidden wallet is inaccessible — the passphrase itself is not recoverable by Ledger.

Security best practices for logging in

  • Always verify addresses and transaction details on the device screen before approving.
  • Keep your recovery phrase stored offline in a secure, fire/water-resistant place.
  • Never share your recovery phrase, PIN, or passphrase with anyone — support personnel will never ask for them.
  • Use the official Ledger Live app and keep it up to date; verify app sources if you install from alternate stores.
  • Prefer using Ledger Live on machines and networks you trust — avoid public Wi-Fi for transactions when possible.

Troubleshooting common login issues

Device not detected

Try a different USB cable or port, make sure the device is powered on, and confirm Ledger Live permissions (WebHID/WebUSB) if using a browser. Restart Ledger Live and your computer if necessary.

Wrong PIN attempts locked

After several incorrect PIN attempts the device will automatically wipe itself. You can restore using your recovery phrase. If you do not have the recovery phrase, you will lose access to the funds stored on the device.

Passphrase issues

Passphrases are never stored on the device. If you forget a passphrase you used previously, the hidden wallet derived from it is inaccessible. Consider keeping an offline, encrypted hint for complex passphrases (but not the passphrase itself).

Multiple accounts or missing assets

Some assets use different derivation paths or require enabling experimental options in Ledger Live. Use the account manager to add additional accounts and ensure the correct derivation path is selected.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need an online account or password to log in?

No. Ledger Live uses your physical Ledger device plus PIN/passphrase for authentication — there is no cloud password that controls your keys by default.

Can I use Ledger Live on multiple computers?

Yes. Install Ledger Live on any computer or mobile device you trust and connect your Ledger. Keys remain on the device.

What happens if I lose my Ledger device?

If you have your recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet on a new Ledger or other compatible wallet. If you do not have the recovery phrase, funds may be irretrievable.

Will Ledger Live ever ask for my recovery phrase?

Never. Ledger Live and official support will never request your recovery phrase. If any application asks for your seed, close it immediately and treat it as malicious.