Overview

Ledger Live is the desktop and mobile companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. It lets you securely manage cryptocurrencies, install apps on your device, check balances, and send or receive coins without exposing private keys. This guide walks through the initial steps: installing Ledger Live, connecting your device, creating or restoring an account, and basic security tips to keep your funds safe.

Quick setup — what you’ll need

  • A Ledger hardware wallet (e.g., Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X).
  • A computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux) or a mobile phone (iOS/Android).
  • A USB cable for the device (or Bluetooth for Ledger Nano X).
  • Your 24-word recovery phrase (write it down and keep it offline).

Step-by-step: Install and open Ledger Live

  1. 1

    Download Ledger Live

    Visit Ledger’s official website and download the Ledger Live app for your platform. Always verify the URL and checksum if available to avoid malicious copies.

  2. 2

    Install and open

    Run the installer and launch Ledger Live. The app will guide you through initial permissions and an update check.

  3. 3

    Create a new wallet or restore

    Choose whether to set up a new device (create a new recovery phrase) or restore from an existing 24-word recovery phrase. If you already own a Ledger, choose restore and follow the prompts.

  4. 4

    Connect your Ledger device

    Connect via USB (or Bluetooth for Nano X). Ledger Live will ask you to open the Ledger app on the device when needed.

  5. 5

    Install currency apps

    Inside Ledger Live’s Manager, install the apps for the coins you want to manage (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Installing an app doesn’t move funds — it enables your device to manage that coin.

  6. 6

    Add accounts

    Use ‘Add account’ to create ledger-managed accounts for each currency. Ledger Live will scan the blockchain and display your balances.

  7. 7

    Send and receive

    To receive, copy the address from Ledger Live and verify it on your device. To send, create a transaction in Ledger Live and confirm it on your ledger device to sign it securely.

Security best practices

Your recovery phrase is the master key to your funds. Never share it, never enter it on a computer or website, and never take a photo of it. Keep it on the physical recovery sheet provided or on a fireproof steel backup if available. Use a strong device PIN and keep your Ledger firmware up to date. When receiving addresses, always confirm the address on the device screen — malware can alter addresses shown on your computer.

Troubleshooting & tips

If Ledger Live doesn’t detect your device, try different USB cables or ports, ensure the device is unlocked, and verify that the latest firmware is installed. If you lose your device, restore using the recovery phrase on a new Ledger device or compatible wallet that supports the same seed standard (BIP39/BIP44). For advanced users, consider using the Ledger device with third-party wallets (like MetaMask) for DApp access, but always confirm addresses and transactions on the Ledger screen.