Introduction
Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile app used with Ledger hardware wallets. It provides a single, secure interface to manage accounts, install blockchain apps on your device, update firmware, and perform transactions. This guide covers the essential first steps so you can start managing your crypto securely.
1. Download and install Ledger Live
Get the official installer
Only download Ledger Live from Ledger’s official website or the official app stores. Avoid third-party download links, email attachments, or social media links — these are common vectors for fake software. Where available verify the checksum or digital signature of the installer.
Install and update
Run the installer and follow the prompts. After installation, open Ledger Live and allow it to check for updates to the application and device firmware. Keeping both Ledger Live and your Ledger device firmware up to date is critical for security and compatibility.
2. Prepare your Ledger device
New device setup
If your Ledger device is new, the on-device wizard will guide you through setting a PIN and generating a recovery phrase (typically 24 words). Write the recovery phrase down on the provided card or an offline medium. Do not photograph or store it digitally.
Restoring a device
If you are restoring a wallet from an existing recovery phrase, choose the restore option on the device and enter the words when prompted. Never enter your recovery phrase into a website or an app — only on the device during an official restore.
3. Connect Ledger Live and your device
Connect your Ledger via USB (or Bluetooth for Ledger Nano X with the mobile app). Open Ledger Live, go to the "Manager" or "Get started" flow and follow the prompts to connect. Unlock the device with your PIN when requested. Ledger Live will detect the device and display options for installing apps and adding accounts.
4. Install apps & add accounts
Ledger devices use small blockchain-specific apps (for Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). In Ledger Live's Manager, install the apps you need on the device. Then go to "Accounts → Add account", pick the currency and follow the steps. Ledger Live will scan and display your account balances — note that private keys remain on the device and are never exposed to the host computer.
5. Receiving and verifying funds
To receive funds, select an account in Ledger Live and click "Receive". Ledger Live will present an address and the device will show the same address. Always verify that the address on your computer matches the one on your Ledger device before sharing it. This prevents address substitution attacks by malware.
6. Sending funds — device confirmation
Create a send operation in Ledger Live and review the transaction details. The most important step is to confirm the recipient address and the amount on your Ledger device screen. The device will only sign the transaction after you physically confirm it, guarding against remote tampering.
7. App password & application security
Ledger Live lets you set an optional local app password. Use a unique, strong password to protect the application from casual access on shared machines. Also configure auto-lock and inactivity timeouts to minimize risk if your computer is left unattended.
8. Recovery phrase protection
Your recovery phrase is the master key to your funds. Store it offline in a secure place. Consider fireproof and watertight metal backups for long-term storage. Never share the phrase or enter it into websites, emails, or messages. Ledger Support or legitimate services will never ask for your recovery phrase.
9. Troubleshooting tips
- Device not recognized: try a different USB cable, port, or computer; ensure the device is unlocked.
- Ledger Live won't start: reinstall from the official site and check OS settings (macOS security permissions; Windows driver prompts).
- Accounts missing: add the correct cryptocurrency account and ensure Ledger Live is up to date; re-scan accounts if necessary.
10. Best practices checklist
- Download Ledger Live and firmware only from official sources.
- Keep your device firmware and app updated.
- Verify addresses on-device before receiving or sending funds.
- Never store the recovery phrase digitally; keep a secure offline backup.
- Use a strong, unique app password and enable auto-lock.
- Be vigilant about phishing — verify URLs and avoid unsolicited links.
Following these steps will help you set up Ledger Live and your Ledger device in a secure, resilient way. Ledger Live is designed to make account management straightforward while leaving the cryptographic keys protected inside your hardware device.
Start with Ledger Live