Connect your Ledger device to your computer via USB.
Unlock it with your PIN.
Open the Ethereum app (or another blockchain app like Polygon/Solana) on your Ledger. (Keep the app open during the process).
Open MetaMask:
Launch the MetaMask browser extension (or desktop app).
If already logged in, click your account icon (top-right) → "Add account or hardware wallet".
Connect Ledger to MetaMask:
Go to Settings → Connect a Hardware Wallet.
Select "Ledger" → Click "Continue".
Choose your Ledger device from the list (ensure it’s detected).
Select the account(s) you want to access → Click "Unlock".
Use Your Wallet:
The selected Ledger-linked account(s) will appear in MetaMask.
All transactions require physical confirmation on your Ledger device.
KEY NOTE:
MetaMask: Best for interacting with dApps, swaps, or Web3 services. Your Ledger secures all actions.
Ledger Live: Best for checking balances, firmware updates, or simple sends/receives.
Security: Never enter your Ledger’s 24-word recovery phrase into MetaMask, Ledger Live, or any website. Only approve transactions directly on your Ledger device.