How Ledger Live login works
Ledger Live doesn't store your private keys — your hardware device does. Logging into the desktop or mobile app usually means opening the Ledger Live app, connecting your Ledger device (or unlocking mobile with Bluetooth), and confirming any sensitive action on the physical device. The app and device work together: the app prepares transactions or shows account data and the device signs operations securely.
Step-by-step
- Open Ledger Live — launch the app on desktop or mobile.
- Connect your device — USB for desktop, Bluetooth for Ledger models that support it.
- Enter your PIN — on the physical device only. Never type your PIN into the app or a website.
- Approve actions — transaction signing and some sensitive requests must be confirmed on the device screen.
Troubleshooting common login problems
- Device not detected — try a different USB cable or port, enable developer options if on certain OSes, and ensure your Ledger firmware is compatible with your Ledger Live version.
- Bluetooth pairing fails — forget the device on your phone Bluetooth settings and re-pair from Ledger Live; keep devices close.
- Ledger Live asks for an update — update Ledger Live and your device firmware using official prompts. Do not download executables from third-party sites.
When you're asked for a recovery phrase — what to do
Ledger support or Ledger Live will never ask you to enter your 24-word recovery phrase into an app, website, or chat. If prompted anywhere to reveal your recovery phrase, treat it as a scam and disconnect immediately. The recovery phrase belongs on the physical recovery sheet or a secure backup vault.