Ledger® Live: Desktop | Sign In Your Device

Ledger Live is the official desktop application designed to manage your Ledger hardware wallet and your cryptocurrency assets with maximum security. This guide will walk you through signing in your Ledger device to Ledger Live on desktop, ensuring you can access your assets safely and confidently.

Why Sign In to Ledger Live?

Signing in to Ledger Live lets you securely connect your hardware wallet to your computer, enabling you to monitor balances, send and receive cryptocurrencies, and access advanced features like staking and swapping — all without ever exposing your private keys online.

Prerequisites Before Signing In

• A Ledger hardware wallet (Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Ledger Stax)
• A desktop computer running Windows, macOS, or Linux
• A USB cable to connect your Ledger device (Bluetooth for Nano X is only supported via mobile apps)
• Ledger Live installed on your desktop (download here)
• Your 24-word recovery phrase securely stored (never enter this phrase on any device unless restoring)

Step 1: Open Ledger Live and Prepare Your Device

Once you have Ledger Live installed, open the application on your desktop. Make sure your Ledger device is powered off and disconnected.

1. Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the USB cable.
2. Power on the device by pressing the button(s) as instructed for your model.
3. Enter your PIN on the device to unlock it.

Important: Never share your PIN or recovery phrase with anyone, including support personnel.

Step 2: Connect Ledger Live to Your Device

With your device unlocked and Ledger Live open:

1. In Ledger Live, click on the “Manager” tab from the left sidebar.
2. The app will prompt you to allow Ledger Live to access your device — confirm this on your Ledger device screen by pressing the button(s).
3. Ledger Live will now detect your hardware wallet and display the current status.

This connection allows Ledger Live to communicate securely with your hardware wallet without ever accessing your private keys.

Step 3: Add Cryptocurrency Accounts

Once your device is connected, you can add accounts to manage different cryptocurrencies.

1. Go to the “Accounts” tab in Ledger Live.
2. Click the “Add account” button.
3. Select the cryptocurrency you want to add (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
4. Follow the prompts to synchronize your account with the blockchain.
5. Your account will now appear in Ledger Live, showing balances and transaction history.

You can repeat this process for multiple cryptocurrencies supported by Ledger.

Step 4: Sending and Receiving Crypto Safely

Receiving Funds

• Select the desired account in Ledger Live and click “Receive”.
• Ledger Live will generate a receiving address.
• Always verify that this address matches the one displayed on your Ledger device screen.
• Share this verified address with the sender to receive funds securely.

Sending Funds

• Click the “Send” tab.
• Enter the recipient’s address and the amount to send.
• Review the transaction fees and details carefully.
• Confirm the transaction on your Ledger device physically by pressing the button(s).

Never send crypto without confirming the address on your device itself.

Keeping Your Ledger Live Secure

Security is paramount when dealing with cryptocurrencies. Follow these best practices:

• Keep your Ledger device firmware and Ledger Live app updated.
• Only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website.
• Use a strong, unique PIN for your Ledger device.
• Never enter your recovery phrase on any app or website other than your Ledger device during recovery.
• Beware of phishing attempts and suspicious links.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If Ledger Live does not detect your device:

• Try unplugging and reconnecting your Ledger device.
• Ensure that your device is unlocked with the correct PIN.
• Restart Ledger Live and your computer if necessary.
• Update Ledger Live to the latest version.
• Check USB cable and ports for physical damage.

For further assistance, visit the Ledger Support Center.

Advanced Features You Can Access Once Signed In

• Portfolio Overview: Real-time tracking of your crypto holdings across multiple accounts.
• Swap: Exchange one cryptocurrency for another without leaving Ledger Live.
• Staking: Stake supported tokens to earn rewards while keeping assets secure.
• Buy Crypto: Purchase cryptocurrency directly through integrated partners.

Final Thoughts

Signing in your Ledger device to Ledger Live Desktop is the gateway to managing your digital assets securely and efficiently. Always remember that your Ledger device stores your private keys safely offline, and Ledger Live acts as a trusted interface without ever exposing them online.

Maintain vigilance about security, keep your software updated, and enjoy the powerful features Ledger Live offers to empower your crypto journey.