Ledger Live — Login & Authentication Guide
A concise, security-first overview of how Ledger Live authenticates users and devices. This page is informational only and contains no interactive elements.
Purpose
This page describes the authentication model used when accessing Ledger Live paired with a hardware security device. It explains the steps users typically encounter, clarifies the role of the desktop application versus the hardware device, and outlines recommended practices to protect access to digital assets.
Authentication components
- Local desktop client — the Ledger Live application provides the user interface and stores non-sensitive metadata. It does not hold private keys.
- Hardware security device — the physical device stores private keys and performs secure signing of transactions and authentication challenges.
- PIN code — a short numeric code configured on the device that unlocks device functionality. The PIN never leaves the device.
- Optional passphrase — an additional secret that can be combined with the device seed to create isolated accounts. Treat it as a separate, high-importance credential.
Typical login flow (informational)
The following describes the high-level sequence users experience when opening Ledger Live and interacting with a paired device. This is intentionally non-technical and focuses on user-facing steps.
- Open the Ledger Live desktop application. The app shows the local interface and account summaries from previously synchronized data.
- Connect the hardware device (usually by USB). The desktop client detects the device and establishes a local, encrypted channel for communication.
- Enter the device PIN directly on the hardware device when prompted. The PIN unlocks the device; it is not sent to the desktop client or the internet.
- If a passphrase is used, enter it using the device or by applying an approved offline method. The passphrase augments the seed and creates separate logical accounts.
- Once unlocked, the device and desktop client synchronize account information. Transaction signing requires physical confirmation on the device for each operation, ensuring the user sees critical details before approving.
Security guidance
Follow these practical steps to keep access secure:
- Never reveal your PIN, passphrase, or recovery phrase to anyone. No legitimate support will request these values.
- Record your recovery phrase offline and store it in a secure, redundant location. Consider a certified metal backup for long-term durability.
- Verify application and firmware versions are current during routine maintenance to receive security updates and protocol support.
- Confirm transaction details on the device display before approving; the on-device confirmation is the final authority for what will be signed.
- Avoid entering secret values into computers, browsers, or cloud services; treat the hardware device as the single source of truth for private key operations.
Common questions
Can Ledger Live store my recovery phrase? No — the recovery phrase should be created and stored offline; Ledger Live does not store recovery phrases.
What if I forget my PIN? If the PIN is forgotten, the device can be reset and restored from the recovery phrase; resetting will erase keys from the device until restored with the correct phrase.
This section is a brief, user-oriented FAQ for typical login concerns and does not replace the device manual or official support resources.