Ledger Live | Getting Started — Ledger

Welcome to Ledger Live

If you're ready to take full control of your crypto assets, you've come to the right place. Ledger Live is the official software from Ledger that pairs seamlessly with your Ledger hardware wallet to provide a secure, simple, and powerful interface for managing cryptocurrencies. Whether you're just starting with crypto or transferring from another wallet, this guide will help you get started with Ledger Live confidently and securely.

What Is Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is a user-friendly application available on desktop and mobile that allows you to manage over 5,500 digital assets in one place. With Ledger Live, your private keys always remain stored on your Ledger hardware wallet, never exposed to the internet. This powerful combination of software and hardware provides unmatched security for your digital assets.

Ledger Live allows you to:

  • Send and receive crypto
  • View and manage your portfolio
  • Buy, sell, and swap assets
  • Stake supported coins
  • Securely manage NFTs
  • Install blockchain apps on your device

Step-by-Step: Getting Started with Ledger Live

🔽 1. Download Ledger Live

To get started, download the Ledger Live application:

  • For desktop: Windows, macOS, or Linux
  • For mobile: iOS or Android

👉 Important: Only download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website or your device’s official app store. Never trust links from unofficial sources to avoid phishing or malware.

🔐 2. Set Up Your Ledger Device

If you're using a new Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus or Nano X), follow these steps:

  • Connect your device to your computer or smartphone using a USB cable or Bluetooth (Nano X).
  • Power it on and choose “Set up as new device.”
  • Create a PIN code using the buttons on the device.
  • Write down your 24-word recovery phrase in the exact order provided—this is your only backup.
  • Confirm the recovery phrase when prompted.
Never share or store your recovery phrase online. Ledger will never ask for it.

If you're restoring an existing wallet, select "Restore from recovery phrase" and input your 24 words.

📲 3. Open Ledger Live and Start Setup

Once your device is set up, open Ledger Live and click “Get Started.”

  • Choose your device model (Nano S Plus, Nano X, or Nano S).
  • Confirm that your device is genuine through Ledger’s secure authentication process.
  • If your device is brand new, choose “Initialize as new device.”
  • If you're restoring, choose “Restore device.”

Ledger Live will then guide you through pairing your device and installing the necessary firmware updates.

Installing Apps and Adding Accounts

Once your Ledger hardware wallet is paired and verified, you can begin installing apps and adding accounts to start managing your crypto.

🧩 4. Install Apps via the Manager Tab

Navigate to the Manager tab in Ledger Live. This is where you’ll install blockchain-specific apps like:

  • Bitcoin
  • Ethereum
  • Solana
  • XRP
  • Polkadot
     (And many others)

Your Ledger device has limited storage, but you can always uninstall and reinstall apps without affecting your assets.

🧾 5. Add Crypto Accounts

Go to the Accounts tab and click “Add account.” Choose the cryptocurrency and account type. Once added, you’ll be able to:

  • View your balance
  • Send and receive crypto
  • View your transaction history

Accounts are synced directly with the blockchain but remain under your full control thanks to the security of your Ledger hardware wallet.

Using Ledger Live Features

💰 Buy and Sell Crypto

Ledger Live integrates with partners like MoonPay and Coinify, allowing you to purchase crypto directly in the app and send it to your Ledger wallet.

🔁 Swap Assets

You can exchange one cryptocurrency for another using the Swap feature—no third-party exchanges needed.

🌱 Staking

Ledger Live supports staking for several coins, including Ethereum, Tezos, Polkadot, and more. You can stake directly and earn rewards, all while your private keys remain secured offline.

🖼️ NFT Management

Manage and view your NFTs from networks like Ethereum and Polygon. Ledger Live offers a secure interface to transfer and store non-fungible tokens.

Security Tips for Ledger Live

  • Update Regularly: Keep both your Ledger device and the Ledger Live app updated to benefit from the latest features and security patches.
  • Beware of Phishing: Never enter your recovery phrase online. Always confirm URLs and never trust unsolicited messages or emails.
  • Enable Password Lock: On both desktop and mobile, you can set a password to open Ledger Live for additional security.
  • Use Genuine Accessories: Always use official cables and avoid third-party apps or websites that ask for Ledger access.

Troubleshooting Ledger Live

Common issues and solutions:

  • Device Not Recognized: Try a different USB port or cable, and ensure the Ledger Live app is updated.
  • App Crashes: Reboot your system and reinstall Ledger Live from the official site.
  • Firmware Update Problems: Make sure your Ledger is unlocked and connected, then follow on-screen instructions carefully.

Still having trouble? Use Ledger Live’s built-in Help section to contact Ledger Support or browse FAQs.

Conclusion

Ledger Live is the gateway to a secure and streamlined crypto experience. From managing your assets and staking to tracking your portfolio and handling NFTs, Ledger Live brings the full power of self-custody into your hands—safely and simply.