Ledger® Live — Getting Started

Official, step-by-step guide to download, install and use Ledger Live with your Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus, Nano X and other models).

Introduction

Ledger Live is the official companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. It gives you a secure interface to add accounts, send and receive crypto, stake supported tokens, install blockchain apps on your device, and keep your firmware up to date. The core security principle is simple: private keys remain on your Ledger device and signing happens on-device. Ledger Live handles the user interface and network interactions so you can manage assets safely and conveniently.

Why use Ledger Live?

Ledger Live combines user-friendly design with a security-first model. It helps you:

  • Keep private keys isolated on the hardware wallet.
  • Verify addresses and transactions on-device to prevent tampering.
  • Access staking, portfolio views, and third-party integrations through vetted partners.

Download & Installation

  1. Visit ledger.com/ledger-live and download the correct installer for your platform (Windows, macOS, Linux desktop; iOS/Android mobile).
  2. Run the installer and follow prompts. On mobile, install from the official App Store/Google Play.
  3. Grant necessary permissions for USB or Bluetooth as prompted. Use the original cable and avoid power-only USB cords.

Security tip: only download Ledger Live from ledger.com. If checksums or signatures are provided, verify them for additional assurance.

Initial Setup: Connect & Unlock

  • Open Ledger Live and choose Get started if you’re new, or Already have a device to reconnect an existing wallet.
  • Select your Ledger model and follow on-screen prompts to pair it (USB or Bluetooth for Nano X).
  • Enter your PIN on the Ledger device to unlock it — Ledger Live never requests your recovery phrase.

Adding Accounts

Ledger Live organizes assets by blockchain into accounts. To add accounts:

  1. Open the Accounts tab and click Add account.
  2. Select the blockchain (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) and allow Ledger Live to scan your device for associated addresses.
  3. Confirm the address on your Ledger device and add the account to your dashboard.

You can create multiple accounts per blockchain, name them for clarity, and manage each independently.

Receive & Send — Secure Flow

Always verify addresses on your Ledger device to prevent address-replacement malware:

  • Receive: Click Receive, select an account, and confirm the address shown on the Ledger device before sharing it.
  • Send: Enter recipient address and amount. Review fees and transaction details in Ledger Live, then confirm and approve the transaction on your device screen to sign it locally.

Staking & Third-Party Integrations

Ledger Live supports staking for select assets and integrates with trusted third-party providers for DeFi, swaps, and NFT services. When using integrations, confirm the details on-device. The Ledger device remains the signer, so your private keys do not leave the hardware.

Backup & Recovery

When initializing your Ledger device, you’ll receive a recovery phrase (24 words) — this is the master backup for your private keys. Important practices:

  • Write the phrase on the provided card or use metal backups for durability.
  • Store backups offline in secure locations. Consider geographic separation for redundancy.
  • Never enter your recovery phrase into websites or share it — Ledger support will never ask for it.

Security Best Practices

  • Purchase devices only from Ledger or authorized resellers to avoid supply-chain tampering.
  • Keep both Ledger Live and device firmware up to date.
  • Use a strong PIN and consider adding a passphrase for hidden accounts if you need an extra layer.
  • Confirm transaction details on-device every time you sign.
  • For large holdings, consider multisig or custody strategies to distribute trust.

Troubleshooting

  • Device not detected: Try a different USB cable/port and make sure the device is unlocked with the PIN.
  • Bluetooth issues (Nano X): Ensure Bluetooth permissions and pairing mode are enabled.
  • Ledger Live crashes: Restart app, check for updates, and reinstall if necessary.
  • Forgot PIN: Reset device and restore using your recovery phrase — another reason to secure backups.

Privacy Considerations

Ledger Live queries nodes and APIs to display balances and history. If privacy is a priority, consider connecting to your own node where supported, or use privacy-enhancing tools. Ledger Live itself does not expose private keys, but the services it contacts may learn which addresses you monitor.

Advanced Workflows

  • Multisig setups: Use multiple hardware signers for shared control of funds (good for teams/treasury).
  • Air-gapped signing: Prepare transactions offline and sign them with a device that never connects to the internet for maximum security.
  • Developer integrations: Use Ledger’s SDKs and APIs to add hardware-backed signing into apps while preserving on-device confirmations.

FAQ

Can Ledger Live sign transactions without a Ledger device?
No. Ledger Live requires a Ledger hardware wallet for signing. It can display read-only information, but signing requires the device.
Is Ledger Live open-source?
Ledger maintains public resources and documentation. Use official Ledger binaries and follow best practices for download and verification.
What happens if I lose my recovery phrase?
If you lose both the device and the recovery phrase, funds cannot be recovered. Secure backups are essential.

Ledger Live is designed to be accessible for beginners while offering advanced features for power users. Follow the security practices above, verify everything on-device, and maintain safe backups to keep your crypto secure over the long term.