Getting Started with Ledger Live

A clear, security-first quickstart to connect your Ledger device and manage crypto safely.

Overview

Ledger Live is the companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. It lets you manage accounts, sign transactions with a hardware device, access DeFi integrations, stake certain assets, and track your portfolio — while keeping private keys inside the device’s secure element. Follow this guide step-by-step to set up Ledger Live safely.

Step 1 — Download from official source

Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. Manually type https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live into your browser or use official app stores. Avoid third-party or search-result links which may be malicious.

Step 2 — Install and open Ledger Live

  1. Install the app for your OS (Windows/macOS/Linux) or install the mobile app from the App Store / Google Play.
  2. Open Ledger Live and follow the initial onboarding prompts.

Step 3 — Connect your Ledger device

Connect your Ledger hardware wallet (e.g., Nano S Plus, Nano X) via USB or Bluetooth (Nano X). Choose "Initialize as new device" if brand new, or "Restore device" if you already have a recovery phrase from an earlier device.

Step 4 — Device initialization & genuine check

Follow the device screen and Ledger Live prompts to perform a genuine check. The device will guide you through creating a PIN and generating a recovery phrase if initializing as new. Verify the fingerprint or messages shown on both the device and the app when asked.

Step 5 — Set a strong PIN

Choose a PIN you can remember but that is not easily guessable. The device randomizes digit order on-screen to protect against shoulder-surfing and some keyloggers. Never store the PIN together with your recovery phrase.

Step 6 — Record your recovery phrase

Write the recovery phrase exactly as shown on the device. Use the provided recovery card or other secure, offline means to store the words. Make multiple copies and keep them in geographically separated secure locations. Do not digitize or photograph the recovery phrase.

Step 7 — Add accounts in Ledger Live

  1. Open Ledger Live and go to the "Accounts" section.
  2. Click "Add account", select the cryptocurrency, and follow instructions to link the on-device account.
  3. Repeat for each asset you wish to manage.

Step 8 — Send a test transaction

Before transferring large amounts, send a small test transaction to confirm the end-to-end flow. Verify the receiving address on the hardware device screen — never trust only the computer’s display.

Security tips

  • Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase — never disclose it.
  • Only install firmware updates presented by Ledger Live and verify signatures when prompted.
  • Keep multiple offline backups of your recovery phrase; consider a steel backup for long-term durability.
  • Use the optional passphrase (advanced) only if you understand how it increases complexity.

Troubleshooting

  • Device not found: try a different USB cable/port, ensure Bluetooth pairing (Nano X), and update Ledger Live to the latest version.
  • Genuine check failed: disconnect, type the URL manually, and run the check again. Contact official Ledger support if problems persist.
  • Forgot PIN: you must perform a factory reset and restore using your recovery phrase.

Advanced & next steps

After setup, explore staking, DeFi integrations via Ledger Live’s Discover section, and NFT management. For high-value holdings, consider multi-signature solutions or splitting custody across independent devices. Always test workflows before committing significant funds.