Purpose: A concise step-by-step presentation-style guide to help new users install Ledger Live, set up a Ledger hardware wallet, understand core features, and follow basic safety practices.
Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application that allows you to manage your Ledger hardware wallet and interact with your cryptocurrency accounts. It connects to your Ledger device to view balances, send and receive crypto, install apps on the device, and update firmware. Ledger Live is the first place to go when you own a Ledger device: it keeps your portfolio, app manager, and device settings in one secure interface.
To set up Ledger Live and your Ledger wallet you will need:
Always download Ledger Live directly from the official Ledger website or the official app stores. Fake apps and malicious downloads are common attack vectors—never enter your recovery phrase into any app or website. Ledger never asks you for your recovery phrase.
Visit the official Ledger Live download page to get the right installer for your platform (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android). Follow the installer prompts and open the app once installation completes.
When first powering your Ledger device you will be guided to set a PIN and generate a recovery phrase. Write the recovery phrase on the supplied recovery sheet and store it securely offline. The device will show each word; verify carefully as you write them down. This recovery phrase is the sole backup of your private keys.
Open Ledger Live and choose "Get started" → select your device type → follow the on-screen instructions to connect and unlock the device. Ledger Live will help you create accounts for supported cryptocurrencies and will prompt you to install necessary apps on the device via the Manager.
Add accounts inside Ledger Live for each cryptocurrency you wish to manage. Ledger Live will display balances, transaction history, and offer actions like send, receive, and swap. To send transactions you will confirm the details on your Ledger device physically.
Keep your device firmware and Ledger Live app up to date. Updates include security improvements and new features. Ledger Live notifies you of available updates and also provides a guided process to update device firmware—follow it carefully.
Your 24-word recovery phrase is the master key to your assets. Never type it into websites or apps, never take a photo of it, and never share it. If anyone asks for your recovery phrase to help you, it is a scam.
Only download Ledger Live from ledger.com or official app stores. If you need help, use the official Ledger Support pages and documentation rather than third-party guides whose accuracy may vary.
Buy Ledger devices only from the official Ledger Shop or authorized resellers to avoid tampered devices. If a device packaging looks suspicious, contact Ledger support before use.
If your Ledger device is lost or damaged you can restore your accounts on a new Ledger device (or a compatible wallet) using your recovery phrase. Use the official recovery process and double-check the recovery words before performing a restore.
Ledger provides a Recovery Check tool and guidance to verify your backup is correct—use these official steps if you are unsure about the integrity of your recovery phrase.
Open Ledger Live → Manager → connect device → install apps required for each coin.
Accounts → Choose account → Send → Enter address → Confirm on device.
Accounts → Choose account → Receive → Verify address on device → Share the receiving address only.