Ledger Nano X Firmware Update Failed: Device Stuck On Bootloader

Cucbatchelor
3 min readFeb 6, 2021

It seems that many Ledger Nano X users experience a similar problem when trying to update their firmware. It is yet not clear if this has got something to do with the current firmware being too old for the new upgrade. However, if you have been stuck in this situation for a while, use this tutorial to work out a solution.

Today, we will cover how to resolve your Ledger device being stuck during an update. Let’s start.

Solution

Make sure you are using the latest version of Ledger Live.

When you find that your hardware is stuck during an update, here’s what you can do.

  1. Hold both buttons on your Ledger Nano X to open the Control Center.
  2. Select Power off and press both buttons.
  3. Turn on your device and go to the Manager to continue the update.

If none of the steps work, you could try to repair the device. Please note, that in order to qualify for this option, you will need to have the 24-word recovery phrase ready, as it will be required.

Instructions to reset your Ledger stuck in the recovery mode

  1. Power off your device.
  2. Press and hold the left button (the button closest to the USB port) and do not release it until step 4.
  3. Connect the USB cable to the device.
  4. Release the button once the boot menu is displayed.
  5. Select Recovery mode and validate by pressing both buttons.
  6. Enter your PIN code. Your device will now display ‘Follow device repair instructions’ followed by information on resetting it when you press the right button a few times.
  7. Select the Reset all option and press both buttons to validate. Your device will now be reset.

Update to firmware version 1.2.4–4

  1. Start the device in Recovery mode again by following steps 1 to 5 above. Your device will display the dashboard, which normally displays the apps on the device.
  2. Start Ledger Live on your computer. You must have at least version 2.8.0. To check the current version, go to Settings > About.
  3. Click on ‘Manage’ in the menu on the left and allow the Manager on your device.
  4. An upgrade banner will appear at the top of the screen if the 1.2.4–4 upgrade is available. Please try again later if you do not see the upgrade banner. Firmware version 1.2.4–4 is released progressively.
  5. Click on Update firmware to launch the update and follow the on-screen instructions.
  6. After the update is complete, the device can be powered on normally.
  7. Choose the option Restore from the recovery phrase and use your 24-word recovery phrase to restore your device. Full restore instructions here >

Your device now runs the firmware version 1.2.4–4. You may install apps on your device to use it.

Conclusion

Getting your device stuck while performing an update can be scary, but it is nothing to stress over. If you find yourself in this situation, please follow the instructions provided above to resolve the issue. Good luck!

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