Ledger® Live — Getting started

This guide walks you through installing Ledger Live, setting up a Ledger hardware wallet, adding accounts and making your first transactions safely. Follow each step carefully — security is essential when managing crypto.

Before you begin — what you need

A compatible Ledger hardware device (Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X, or other supported models).
A desktop or laptop (Windows, macOS, or Linux) or supported mobile device.
A USB cable or Bluetooth (for Nano X) and an internet connection.
Your 24-word recovery phrase (create and store this only during setup — never share it online).

Step 1 — Download and install Ledger Live

Go to the official Ledger website and download Ledger Live for your operating system. Always download from ledger.com to avoid counterfeit apps.
Install the app and launch it. On first run you will be prompted to accept terms and choose a workspace.
If you plan to use Ledger with mobile, download the Ledger Live app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

Tip: Ledger Live periodically updates. Keep the app up-to-date to benefit from new coin support and security fixes.

Step 2 — Initialize or restore your Ledger device

When you connect your Ledger device for the first time you’ll choose between creating a new wallet or restoring from an existing recovery phrase.

Connect your device and enter the PIN code shown on the device screen. The PIN is set on-device and never transmitted to your computer.
If creating a new wallet, the device will display a 24-word recovery phrase. Write these words down on the provided recovery sheet — do not store them digitally.
If restoring, select the restore option and enter your 24-word phrase using the device buttons.

Security warning: Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger employees or support will never ask for it. Anyone with the recovery phrase can access your funds.

Step 3 — Install apps on your Ledger device

Ledger devices use small, secure apps to support different blockchains (for example, Bitcoin, Ethereum). Installing an app on the device enables that blockchain in Ledger Live.

Open Ledger Live and go to the Manager section.
Allow the manager on your device when prompted and install the apps for the coins you want to use.
Each app consumes a small amount of device memory; remove unused apps and reinstall later as needed.

Step 4 — Add accounts in Ledger Live

In Ledger Live, go to Accounts → Add account.
Select the coin (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.), open the corresponding app on your Ledger device and follow the prompts. Ledger Live will scan and display derived accounts. Choose which accounts to add.
Repeat for each coin you want to manage.

Step 5 — Receive and send funds

To receive:

Choose an account and click Receive.
Connect and unlock your Ledger device and open the corresponding coin app on the device.
Compare the address shown in Ledger Live with the one on your device screen. Only use the address displayed on the device — confirm it matches exactly before sharing it.

To send:

Click Send, enter the recipient address and amount.
Review the transaction details in Ledger Live and on your device screen. Confirm on the device to sign and broadcast the transaction.

Security best practices

Always verify addresses on your Ledger device display, not just on your computer screen.
Store your recovery phrase offline in at least two secure locations (e.g., a safe or a safety deposit box). Consider metal backups for durability.
Never enter your recovery phrase into any website, app or chat — it belongs only on your device during initial setup or device recovery.
Enable a passphrase (optional advanced protection) only if you understand how it works — it acts like a 25th word and changes your wallet derivation.
Use official Ledger channels for downloads and support — beware of phishing sites and fake support services.

Troubleshooting — common issues

Device not recognized: Try a different USB cable or port. Ensure Ledger Live is up-to-date and the device firmware is current.
App installation fails: Free up space by removing unused apps on the device, then reinstall the ones you need.
Transactions stuck or pending: Check network fees for the coin. You may need to resubmit with a higher fee or wait for network congestion to clear.
Lost recovery phrase: If you lose it and still have device access, immediately create a new wallet and transfer funds to the new seed. If both are lost, funds cannot be recovered.

Frequently asked questions

Is Ledger Live required to use my Ledger device? Ledger Live is the official companion app that simplifies setup and management. You can also use third‑party wallets that support Ledger devices, but Ledger Live is recommended for most users.

Can Ledger recover funds if I lose my device? Yes — as long as you have your recovery phrase. The recovery phrase is the key to your wallets and can be used to restore access on a new Ledger device or compatible wallet.

Where to get more help

For step‑by‑step tutorials, firmware updates, and official support articles visit the Ledger Support Center. If you encounter a security incident, contact Ledger through the official support portal and never share your recovery phrase or PIN in support requests.