Introduction to Ledger Live
Ledger Live is the powerful desktop and mobile application designed to help you manage your cryptocurrency portfolio securely and efficiently. It allows you to send, receive, and store multiple cryptocurrencies, monitor your portfolio, and update your Ledger hardware device firmware — all in one user-friendly interface.
Whether you're a beginner or an advanced crypto enthusiast, Ledger Live offers features tailored to your needs while maintaining the highest standards of security.
🔐Security First: Ledger Live works in tandem with your Ledger hardware wallet to ensure your private keys never leave your device.
What You Need Before Getting Started
- 📱A computer (Windows, macOS, Linux) or mobile device (iOS, Android)
- 🔌Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Ledger Stax)
- ⚡USB cable to connect your Ledger device (or Bluetooth for Nano X)
- 💾Latest Ledger Live software installed (Download here)
- 🔢Your Ledger device PIN and recovery phrase (stored securely offline)
⚠️Warning: Never share your recovery phrase or PIN with anyone. Ledger Support will never ask for these.
Step 1: Installing Ledger Live
💻 Download and Install
Visit the official Ledger website at Ledger.com/start and download the latest Ledger Live version compatible with your operating system.
Follow the installation instructions carefully. For mobile, download the app from Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
🔄 Always keep Ledger Live updated to access the newest features and security patches.
Step 2: Setting Up Your Ledger Device
🔧 Initial Device Setup
If you have a brand-new Ledger device, power it on by connecting it via USB or Bluetooth (Nano X). Follow the on-screen prompts to:
- Choose your preferred language
- Create a PIN code
- Write down your 24-word recovery phrase securely (do not save digitally)
- Confirm your recovery phrase on the device
✍️ Your recovery phrase is the only way to recover your wallet if your device is lost or damaged. Store it safely offline.
Step 3: Connect Your Device to Ledger Live
🔌 Connect and Unlock
Connect your Ledger device to your computer using the USB cable (or via Bluetooth for Nano X). Enter your PIN code to unlock the device.
Launch Ledger Live and select “Get Started”. Choose whether you want to set up a new device or restore from recovery phrase.
🔒 Ledger Live never stores your private keys; they remain safely on your Ledger device.
Step 4: Add Cryptocurrency Accounts
➕ Add Accounts
Ledger Live supports over 30 cryptocurrencies and thousands of tokens. To add accounts:
- Navigate to the “Accounts” tab
- Click “Add account”
- Select the cryptocurrency you want to add
- Follow the prompts to allow Ledger Live to sync with your device
Once added, you can view balances, transaction history, and send or receive funds.
Step 5: Sending and Receiving Crypto
📤 Send Cryptocurrency
- Go to the “Send” tab
- Choose the account and cryptocurrency
- Enter the recipient’s address carefully (double-check for accuracy)
- Specify the amount to send
- Confirm the transaction details on your Ledger device to authorize
📥 Receive Cryptocurrency
- Go to the “Receive” tab
- Select the account
- Display your Ledger device address and verify it matches on the device screen
- Share the address with the sender
🛡️ Always verify addresses on your Ledger device screen to avoid phishing or scams.
Step 6: Keeping Your Device and Ledger Live Updated
🔄 Firmware and Software Updates
Ledger regularly releases updates to improve security and add support for new cryptocurrencies. To update:
- Connect and unlock your Ledger device
- Open Ledger Live; if an update is available, you'll see a prompt
- Follow on-screen instructions carefully
⚠️ Do not disconnect or power off your device during updates.
Security Tips for Ledger Live Users 🔐
- Always download Ledger Live and firmware updates from the official Ledger website.
- Never share your recovery phrase or PIN with anyone.
- Be cautious of phishing emails or fake websites impersonating Ledger.
- Use a strong, unique PIN on your Ledger device.
- Consider enabling the optional passphrase feature for additional wallet security.
- Keep your recovery phrase stored securely offline in a private location.
Where to Get Help and More Information
For further assistance, visit the Ledger Support Center. Here you’ll find detailed guides, FAQs, and community support.
Always use official Ledger channels for software downloads, updates, and support to ensure your security.