Introduction
Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile companion for Ledger hardware wallets. It lets you manage accounts, check balances, send/receive crypto, and access DeFi and NFT features while your private keys remain on your Ledger device. This guide walks through download, setup, secure login practices, and initial account configuration so you can start safely.
Before you begin (prerequisites)
What you'll need
- A genuine Ledger hardware device (Ledger Nano series or Ledger Stax).
- A computer (Windows/macOS/Linux) or smartphone (iOS/Android) with internet access.
- Your device’s PIN and recovery phrase — never enter your recovery phrase into any app or share it.
Security checklist
Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website and verify signatures if you want extra assurance. Ledger will never ask for your full recovery phrase. If any screen or support contact asks for the recovery phrase — stop and treat it as a scam.
Download and installation
Desktop
Visit the Ledger Live download page and choose your OS. Run the installer and follow on-screen prompts. After installation, open Ledger Live.
Mobile
For Android and iOS, install Ledger Live from the official app store (Google Play or Apple App Store). Open the app and select the appropriate flow.
Getting started: the first run
Create or restore
On first launch, Ledger Live gives two primary options: create a new wallet (use only if you have a brand new device) or restore/access an existing wallet. If you’re setting up a new physical device, follow the device-led setup (choose PIN, note recovery phrase physically on paper, confirm). For restoring, use the device’s restore flow — never type your recovery phrase into software.
Connect your device
Plug the Ledger device into your computer (or connect via Bluetooth for supported models) and follow prompts to pair with Ledger Live. Ledger Live will detect the device and guide you when authentication is needed.
Login & access patterns
How login works
Ledger Live itself is an application that stores account metadata locally; the hardware device holds your keys. “Logging in” to access an account requires the device and a PIN. For everyday checks you may open Ledger Live without the device, but to move funds or sign transactions the device must be connected and unlocked.
Optional: Ledger account sync
Ledger offers opt-in services like Ledger Sync to back up non-sensitive metadata — check Ledger’s documentation and privacy notes and enable only if you understand the trade-offs.
Adding accounts and receiving crypto
After device connection, use the Accounts tab to add coin-specific accounts. For each asset, Ledger Live will derive the public addresses from your hardware device — confirm the address on your device screen before receiving funds.
Sending crypto: signing transactions
To send funds, create the transaction in Ledger Live and then confirm and sign it on your hardware device. The device’s screen shows transaction details (amount & destination) — always verify these details visually on the device before approving.
Troubleshooting & updates
Keep Ledger Live updated
Ledger releases security and feature updates regularly. Install updates from the official site and verify app signatures where available. If you experience connectivity issues, check cables, USB ports, or Bluetooth settings for your device.
When to contact support
Use Ledger’s official support channels if you’re stuck. Do not respond to unsolicited messages asking for recovery phrases or authorizing remote access.
Conclusion — best practices
Your Ledger device + Ledger Live form a strong base for secure self-custody. Always verify downloads via the official site, never disclose your recovery phrase, keep firmware and app versions current, and only use official Ledger resources when in doubt.