Why Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is the desktop and mobile companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. It provides a clean interface to manage crypto assets, send and receive funds, check balances, and install apps on your Ledger device. Unlike custodial services, Ledger Live works with a hardware key you control — your private keys never leave your device.
Who should read this guide?
This guide is for beginners who have a new Ledger device or are installing Ledger Live for the first time, and for returning users who need a quick refresher on login and account setup.
Quick checklist (before you begin)
- Ledger device (Ledger Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X, or similar)
- Latest Ledger Live app (desktop or mobile)
- USB cable (or Bluetooth for Ledger Nano X)
- Recovery phrase written on the official recovery sheet (never on your phone)
- Secure, private environment for setup
Step 1 — Download and install Ledger Live
Desktop
- Visit the official Ledger website and download Ledger Live for Windows/macOS/Linux.
- Open the installer and follow the on‑screen prompts to install the app.
- Launch Ledger Live and choose to set up a new device or restore from recovery phrase.
Mobile
- Open the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and search for Ledger Live.
- Install the app and follow the initial onboarding prompts.
Tip
Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website or your platform’s app store to avoid spoofed apps.
Step 2 — Initialize your Ledger device
New device
- Power on the device. Choose Set up as new device.
- Create a PIN. Choose a PIN you can remember but others cannot guess. The device will not accept simple sequential PINs.
- Write down the recovery phrase (24 words for most devices) on the official recovery sheet provided in the package. Store it offline and in a secure place.
Restoring from recovery phrase
- Choose Restore device in the device menu.
- Enter each word of your recovery phrase carefully.
Security note
Your recovery phrase is the single most important secret. Never share it, never enter it into a website or phone, and never store it digitally. Consider using metal backups for additional durability.
Step 3 — Connect Ledger Live and login
Pairing your device
- Open Ledger Live and click Get Started.
- Select your device model and follow the prompts to connect via USB (or Bluetooth for Nano X).
- Ledger Live will detect the device and prompt you to confirm actions on the device screen. Always verify the message on your Ledger display before approving.
Creating a passphrase (optional)
Advanced users may enable a passphrase as an additional layer of security. This effectively creates a hidden wallet protected by your recovery phrase + passphrase. Only enable this if you understand the tradeoffs; losing the passphrase is equivalent to losing access to those funds.
Step 4 — Add accounts and manage apps
Installing blockchain apps on your Ledger
Ledger devices use small blockchain-specific apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) which you manage via Ledger Live’s Manager tab. Install only the apps you intend to use; removing and reinstalling apps is safe and does not affect your recovery phrase.
Adding accounts
- In Ledger Live, open Accounts > Add account.
- Choose the currency (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.) and follow the prompts while your device is connected and unlocked.
- Ledger Live will scan the blockchain for existing addresses derived from your wallet and display balances.
Multiple accounts
You can create multiple accounts for the same currency (for example: Bitcoin — Savings, Spending). Ledger Live keeps them organized under the Accounts tab.
Step 5 — Send & receive safely
Receiving funds
- Open the account in Ledger Live and click Receive.
- Connect and unlock your device, then confirm the address shown on the device display matches the address shown in Ledger Live before sharing it.
Sending funds
- Click Send, enter the recipient address and amount.
- Verify transaction details on your Ledger device and confirm to sign the transaction. Never sign transactions that show unexpected outputs or addresses.
Troubleshooting — common issues
Device not detected
- Try another USB cable or port; ensure the cable supports data (not just charging).
- Update USB drivers on your computer if needed.
App not found or outdated
Open Ledger Live Manager and update the firmware or apps. If an app is missing, reinstall it from Manager.
Security best practices
- Buy hardware only from official Ledger channels.
- Never share your recovery phrase or PIN.
- Keep firmware and Ledger Live up to date.
- Use a dedicated computer when possible for added safety.
- Consider a hardware backup (a second Ledger) kept in a separate secure location.
Official links (colorful)
FAQ
- Q: Can I recover my Ledger wallet on another device?
- A: Yes — using your recovery phrase you can restore your wallet on another compatible Ledger device or on compatible wallet software that supports the same derivation path.
- Q: What if I lose my Ledger device?
- A: If you have your recovery phrase, your funds are safe and can be recovered. If you lose both device and recovery phrase, there is no way to recover funds.
- Q: Is Ledger Live custodial?
- A: No — Ledger Live is a non‑custodial interface. Your private keys remain on your hardware device.
- Q: Can I use Ledger Live with multiple devices?
- A: Yes. Ledger Live supports multiple devices and accounts; each device/account will be listed separately in the app.
- Q: Should I store my recovery phrase digitally?
- A: No. Storing your recovery phrase on a phone, computer, or online increases the risk of theft. Use offline, physical storage like the provided recovery sheet or metal backups.