A concise, secure walkthrough to install Ledger Live, connect your device, and begin managing your crypto safely.
Ledger Live is the official companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. It provides a single dashboard to manage accounts, check balances, send and receive crypto, and access third-party services — while keeping your private keys safely on your Ledger device. This guide covers download, first-time setup, and essential security tips so you start correctly and securely.
Before starting: a Ledger hardware device (e.g., Ledger Nano model), a computer or phone, a USB cable (or appropriate adapter), and your 24-word recovery phrase written down during device setup (never enter this into any app or website). Keep the recovery phrase offline and private.
Always download Ledger Live from Ledger’s official site. Ledger provides desktop and mobile installers; choose the one that matches your operating system. Download from the official Ledger Live download page and verify the source if you can. Avoid downloads from third-party sites to reduce risk of counterfeit apps.
Official download page: ledger.com/ledger-live-download
Install Ledger Live following the on-screen installer. On first launch the app will guide you through creating or restoring accounts and pairing your Ledger device. On desktop you’ll often need to allow USB access; on mobile, connect using the cable/adapter recommended for your phone.
Ledger Live stores account metadata locally on your device; it does not require an email/password login to view accounts. When pairing, you’ll unlock the hardware device using your PIN — never share your PIN or recovery phrase with anyone.
Connect your hardware wallet and unlock it using your PIN. Open Ledger Live and follow the "Add account" flow. Ledger Live will communicate with the device to display addresses and request confirmations for transactions. Crucially, transaction approvals must be physically confirmed on your hardware device — this is the core security guarantee.
Always verify transaction details on the device screen before approving. If a screen shows an unexpected address, amount, or prompt for your recovery phrase — do not continue.
Ledger Live is available on desktop and mobile (App Store/Google Play). Both provide equivalent core functionality; choose the platform that fits how you manage funds. Mobile is convenient for on-the-go checks; desktop can be simpler for frequent account management.
Security is the central reason to use a hardware wallet. Key recommendations:
Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. If any interface or person asks for it, treat it as a scam. Counterfeit Ledger Live apps and phishing campaigns exist — always download from the official Ledger domain and verify installer sources when possible.
Keep Ledger Live and your device firmware updated to the latest official versions. Ledger’s documentation and support pages provide step-by-step firmware and app update instructions.
If Ledger Live cannot detect your device, try a different USB cable/port, restart the app, or consult Ledger Support for platform-specific troubleshooting steps. For suspicious emails, phone calls, or offers involving your recovery phrase, contact Ledger Support via official channels and do not follow instructions from unverified sources.
Last checked against Ledger’s official website and support pages. For the latest procedures or platform-specific notes, reference Ledger Support directly.