Getting Started with Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. It helps you set up your device, manage accounts, send/receive crypto, stake supported tokens, and keep everything secure — while your private keys remain offline on the hardware device.

What you’ll need before you start

A genuine Ledger hardware device (e.g., Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, Ledger Stax).
A computer (Windows, macOS, Linux) or mobile device (iOS/Android) with internet access.
Ledger Live installer downloaded from the official Ledger website: ledger.com/start.
Pen and the recovery sheet or a metal backup solution to record your recovery phrase.
At least 20–30 minutes of uninterrupted time for initial setup and verification.

Quick overview — how Ledger Live works

Ledger Live runs on your device and builds transactions; your Ledger hardware wallet stores your private keys and performs signing. When you perform an action in Ledger Live (like sending crypto), the transaction is sent to the device where you must physically review and approve it. That separation keeps keys offline and secure.

Step-by-step setup

1. Download and install Ledger Live

Always download Ledger Live from the official site. Install the app that matches your operating system, then open it. The first launch presents an onboarding wizard — follow it.

2. Create or restore a wallet on the Ledger device

Power on your Ledger device and choose whether to create a new device or restore an existing wallet using your recovery phrase.
If creating new, choose a PIN code (choose something memorable but not easily guessed).
The device will display a 24-word recovery phrase (write it down exactly as shown, in order). Confirm words when prompted.

Never enter your recovery phrase into any website, app, or chat. Ledger support will never ask for it. Store the phrase physically (consider a metal backup for durability).

3. Open Ledger Live and add your device

Connect the Ledger to your computer (USB or Bluetooth depending on model). Ledger Live will detect the device and guide you through firmware updates (if needed) and app installation.

4. Install blockchain apps and add accounts

Use Ledger Live’s Manager to install blockchain apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) on your device. Then go to Accounts → Add account to add accounts for those blockchains. Ledger Live will sync balances and transaction history.

Core features you’ll use daily

Accounts: Manage multiple coins and addresses in one interface.
Send / Receive: Generate receive addresses and create signed transactions (approved on device).
Portfolio: See consolidated balances, price charts, and performance.
Swap / Buy: Access integrated providers to swap assets or buy with fiat (fees and availability vary by region).
Staking: Stake supported PoS tokens from within Ledger Live to earn rewards while keeping keys offline.
Manager & Firmware: Install apps and safely update device firmware.

Best security practices

Only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website or verified app stores.
Record your recovery phrase offline and store it in at least two secure, geographically separated locations.
Confirm every receive address and transaction details on your Ledger device screen before approving.
Keep device firmware and Ledger Live up to date — updates often include security fixes.
Beware of phishing: double-check URLs, never click suspicious links asking for your seed or PIN, and use bookmarks for official pages.
Consider using a passphrase (advanced) only if you understand its implications — it creates hidden wallets that change recovery complexity.

Tip: Perform a small test transaction after setup (send a tiny amount from an exchange) to confirm the entire flow before transferring larger sums.

Troubleshooting — common issues & fixes

Ledger not detected

Try a different USB cable or port, ensure the device is unlocked, and check that Ledger Live is allowed network access if your OS has strict firewall settings. On mobile, check Bluetooth permissions for Nano X.

Firmware or app installation fails

Restart Ledger Live and the device, ensure you’re using the official installer, and follow on-screen instructions carefully. If problems persist, consult Ledger’s official support pages.

Lost recovery phrase

If you lose your recovery phrase, you cannot restore your wallet — funds would be inaccessible. Make multiple secure backups and store them offline in separate locations.

FAQ — quick answers

Question	Answer
Can Ledger Live be used without a Ledger device?	Ledger Live requires a Ledger hardware wallet for signing transactions; it may show some read-only views but cannot send funds without the device.
Is Ledger Live free?	The app is free. Third-party providers inside the app (on-ramps, swaps, staking) may charge fees.
What happens if my Ledger is lost or damaged?	If you have the recovery phrase, you can restore your accounts on a new Ledger or compatible wallet. Without it, funds are unrecoverable.
Should I enable passphrase?	Passphrases add security and privacy but increase complexity. Only enable them after understanding how they affect recovery and account access.

Advanced tips for confident users

Use separate accounts for savings and spending to limit exposure.
Export transaction CSVs for tax reporting and bookkeeping directly from Ledger Live.
For very large holdings, consider additional protections like multisig (where supported) or splitting funds across multiple devices.
Use a dedicated, updated machine for high-value transactions to reduce malware risk.

Closing notes

Ledger Live paired with a Ledger hardware device provides a robust way to self-custody cryptocurrency: modern convenience in Ledger Live, hardware-backed security on the device. Your security posture depends heavily on how you handle the recovery phrase, firmware updates, and vigilance against phishing. Follow the steps above, keep backups, and always verify transactions on your device.

Download Ledger Live (official)