Official Site® | Ledger Live®

Introduction

Welcome to the Official Site® for **Ledger Live®**, the trusted companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. This guide will walk you through everything from downloading Ledger Live to performing your first transaction safely. Whether you're completely new to crypto or already familiar, this step‑by‑step tutorial ensures you follow best practices.

At its core, Ledger Live works hand‑in‑hand with a Ledger hardware device (such as the Ledger Nano series). Your private keys never leave the device, and all sensitive operations (like signing transactions) are confirmed directly on it. This “cold storage + connected app” model offers strong security without sacrificing usability.

Why Use Ledger Live with a Ledger Device?

When choosing how to manage crypto, security matters. Here’s why this combination stands out:

• Key protection: Private keys are isolated within the hardware device, never exposed to your computer or the internet.
• Transaction safety: You must approve every action (sending, swapping, staking) physically on the device.
• Multi‑asset support: Ledger Live supports thousands of coins, tokens, and NFTs in one unified interface.
• Built‑in services: Buy, swap, stake, or track assets via integrated partners — without leaving the app.
• Regular updates: Ledger continuously improves features and security — you’ll receive alerts to upgrade when needed.

Before You Begin

Make sure you have the following:

• A genuine Ledger hardware wallet (e.g. Nano S, Nano S Plus, Nano X, etc.)
• USB cable (or Bluetooth if your device supports it)
• A device (PC, Mac, Linux, or mobile) to install Ledger Live
• A secure, offline spot (like a notebook or metal plate) to write your recovery phrase
• Reliable internet connection (for downloading, updates, and blockchain operations)

⚠️ Warning: Never share your 24‑word recovery phrase with anyone or enter it into any website or app. Ledger support will never ask for it.

Step 1: Download & Install Ledger Live

1. Go to the official site: Visit ledger.com/start to ensure you're downloading from Ledger’s official domain.
2. Select your platform: Choose between Windows, macOS, Linux, or mobile (iOS / Android).
3. Download the installer or app: Get the version tailored for your device.
4. Run the installer or install the app: Follow the on‑screen prompts.
5. Launch Ledger Live: Open the app once installed.
6. Grant necessary permissions: Depending on your OS, you may need to grant access to USB or Bluetooth.

💡 If you already had a version of Ledger Live installed, first ensure it’s up to date (or uninstall the older version before installing fresh).

Step 2: Initialize Your Ledger Device

1. Connect your Ledger device to your computer or pair via Bluetooth (if using a compatible model).
2. On Ledger Live, choose “Set up as a new device” unless you are restoring an existing wallet.
3. On the hardware device, select your preferred language (if prompted).
4. Set a PIN code (typically 4‑8 digits). Make sure it’s something memorable but not trivial.
5. The device will then generate a **24‑word recovery phrase**. Carefully write these words in order on the provided recovery sheet.
6. Confirm a few random words on the device to validate your backup.

⚠️ Do not store your recovery phrase in digital form (e.g. screenshots, notes, cloud). Keep it offline and secure.

Step 3: Install Crypto Apps & Add Accounts

1. In Ledger Live, navigate to the Manager tab and connect your Ledger device.
2. Browse the app catalog and install the crypto apps (e.g. Bitcoin, Ethereum) you intend to use.
3. Once apps are installed, go to the Accounts tab and click “Add account.”
4. Choose the cryptocurrency and follow on‑screen instructions. Ledger Live will scan the blockchain to detect associated addresses.
5. Repeat to add multiple accounts for different assets.

Step 4: Receive & Send Crypto

Receiving Funds

1. Select the account you want to receive into.
2. Click “Receive.” Ledger Live will display an address.
3. Connect and unlock your Ledger device and open the relevant crypto app.
4. Confirm on the device that the address matches what’s shown in Ledger Live.
5. Share that address to senders or transfers.

Sending Funds

1. Click “Send,” select the account, and enter the recipient address & amount.
2. Confirm transaction details (fees, amounts).
3. Connect and open the corresponding app on your Ledger device.
4. Verify and approve the transaction on the device screen.
5. Ledger Live will broadcast the transaction. Wait for network confirmations.

Other Features & Integrations

Once setup is complete, you can explore more advanced features:

• Buy & swap: Use integrated partners via Ledger Live to purchase or swap cryptocurrencies without leaving the app.
• Staking & earning: Stake supported assets (e.g. Ethereum, Polkadot) and earn rewards directly inside Ledger Live.
• NFT support: View and manage supported NFTs linked to your accounts.
• Third‑party integrations: Connect with Web3 tools like MetaMask through Ledger Live or via WalletConnect.
• Discreet / Privacy mode: Hide sensitive balances or names for added privacy.
• Security settings: You can enable passphrase protection, app-level locking, or automatic timeouts.

Security Best Practices

To keep your assets safe, adopt these habits:

• Always verify transaction details (especially addresses) on the device screen itself.
• Install firmware and app updates promptly when prompted.
• Bookmark official Ledger domains (like ledger.com/start) to avoid phishing sites.
• Never enter your recovery phrase into any software or website.
• Use a secondary backup (metal, laminated, etc.) for your recovery phrase if possible.
• Be cautious of unsolicited messages or “support” contacts asking for secrets — Ledger support will not ask you for your recovery phrase. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Why didn’t Ledger Live detect my device?

Make sure your USB cable works (some cables are power-only). Try different USB ports. On mobile, allow USB/Bluetooth permissions. On desktop, check whether Ledger Live has proper permissions to access USB devices.

My app is stuck on “Loading” or “Scanning accounts” — what now?

Try closing and reopening Ledger Live, or reinstalling it. Also, check your internet connection. Some users report Ledger Live freezing or failing to progress during account scanning. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Should I reinstall Ledger Live often?

Only if you encounter issues. Always backup your settings. Reinstallation won’t affect your funds — everything is secured by your recovery phrase and device. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

What if I lose my Ledger device?

Use your 24‑word recovery phrase to restore your wallet on a new Ledger or other compatible hardware. Your assets are not stored on the device itself.

Why is Ledger asking for firmware updates?

Firmware updates fix bugs and strengthen security. Always apply them cautiously through Ledger Live when prompted.