This guide is independent and intended to help you safely set up and use Ledger Live with a Ledger hardware wallet. For official firmware, downloads, and vendor support, visit the manufacturer’s verified website. Never share your recovery phrase with anyone and never enter it into a website or application.
What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is the companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. It provides a secure user interface to create and manage accounts, send and receive cryptocurrencies, update device firmware, and connect to supported dApps. Importantly, Ledger Live acts as the interface only — your private keys remain stored inside the hardware device and are never exposed to your computer.
This guide covers safe installation, initialization, daily use, and security best practices to reduce risk when managing crypto assets.
Before you begin — checklist
- A genuine Ledger device bought from an authorized seller.
- USB cable (or Bluetooth-enabled device for wireless pairing).
- A computer or supported mobile device with internet access.
- Pen and paper or a metal backup for your recovery phrase — do not store the phrase digitally.
- A secure, private workspace to write down your recovery phrase.
Step-by-step: install Ledger Live
- Download safely: Type the vendor domain directly into your browser or use a trusted bookmark. Avoid following links in emails or social media posts.
- Choose the app: Download the Ledger Live installer for your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux) or the official mobile app from the platform store.
- Verify integrity: If the vendor provides checksums or PGP signatures, verify the file after download to ensure authenticity.
- Install and open: Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions. On first launch the app will guide you through initial steps and device detection.
Tip: Keep a browser bookmark to the verified download page so you don’t rely on search links later.
Initialize your hardware wallet
- Connect the device: Plug your Ledger device into your computer using the provided cable (or pair via Bluetooth, if supported).
- Install firmware: If prompted, install official firmware via Ledger Live. Firmware is signed by the vendor — only install updates shown by the official app.
- Create a new wallet: Use Ledger Live’s guided flow to initialize the device. The device will generate a recovery phrase (usually 24 words). Write this down in order and keep it offline.
- Set a PIN: Choose a secure PIN and enter it only on the device display — never on your computer. The PIN protects your device if it’s stolen or lost.
Adding accounts & using Ledger Live
After initialization, Ledger Live lets you add cryptocurrency accounts. Each account derives addresses from your seed (BIP standards). Use the app to:
- Add accounts: Click Add Account, choose a coin, and follow prompts.
- Receive: Generate a receiving address in Ledger Live and verify the same address on your device screen before sharing.
- Send: Create transactions in Ledger Live and confirm every detail on the device before approving.
Ledger Live also supports portfolio tracking, staking, and certain swap services through integrated partners. Understand third-party integrations before using them.
Connecting to web3 apps (dApps)
Many decentralized apps will let you "Connect Wallet" and select a hardware option. Common flows involve a local bridge or Ledger Live acting as a connector. When connecting to a dApp:
- Use only reputable dApps and verify the website domain.
- Select the hardware wallet option and approve the connection in Ledger Live or the bridge UI.
- When signing transactions, always verify the recipient, amount, and fees on the device’s screen before confirming.
Use a dedicated browser profile for web3 and minimize installed extensions to decrease attack surface.
Security best practices
- Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger support or legitimate vendors will never ask for it.
- Keep backups offline. No photos, no cloud backups, no text files. Use paper or metal backups stored in secure locations.
- Verify downloads and firmware from official sources only and check signatures if available.
- Confirm addresses on-device. The device display is the final authority — malware can alter the desktop UI but not the hardware screen.
- Use passphrase wisely. A passphrase adds extra security but if lost is unrecoverable — document and store it securely if you use one.
Troubleshooting common issues
Device not detected
- Try a different USB cable or port (use a data-capable cable).
- Confirm the device is unlocked with the PIN.
- Restart Ledger Live and, if needed, your computer.
Firmware update problems
- Follow Ledger Live prompts and ensure a stable internet connection.
- Never enter your recovery phrase into an updater tool or website.
- Contact vendor support from the verified site if the device becomes unresponsive.
Frequently asked questions (short)
Can Ledger Live be used on multiple computers?
Yes — install Ledger Live on any trusted machine. Each installation requires connecting and unlocking your hardware device to sign transactions.
What if I forget my PIN?
You will need to reset the device to factory settings and restore from your recovery phrase. Resetting erases the device’s internal data but not your funds on-chain.
Is my seed compatible with other wallets?
Most hardware wallets use standard seed formats (BIP39), but derivation paths and coin support can vary. Verify compatibility before restoring on a different vendor’s device.