This guide takes you step-by-step from unboxing a Ledger device to installing Ledger® Live, logging in, managing accounts, securing backups, and sending your first transaction. Headings use H1–H5 for clear structure, and the page includes handy quick links to Office resources for documentation and templates.
Ledger® Live is the desktop and mobile app that lets you manage your crypto assets stored on Ledger hardware. It is a companion interface to Ledger hardware wallets (e.g., Ledger Nano S Plus, Ledger Nano X). This section walks through everything from installing Ledger® Live to completing your first transaction.
When you receive your Ledger device, check the outer packaging for tamper indicators. The box should be sealed. Inside, you’ll find the device, a USB cable, recovery sheets, and quick start guides. Do not rely on the included recovery sheet as your only backup — consider a steel backup for long term storage.
Always download Ledger® Live from Ledger's official site. Choose the correct installer for your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux) or download the mobile app from the official app store. Avoid third-party download mirrors.
During the Ledger device initialization you'll choose to create a new wallet (generate a new 24-word recovery phrase) or restore from an existing 24-word phrase. If you create a new device, write the 24 words on the provided recovery sheet; store that sheet in a secure place. If restoring, make sure you type every word in the exact order and spelling.
Ledger® Live uses an app password (set locally) and the hardware device for transaction signing. There is no login that gives access to your funds without the device and its recovery phrase. The seed (24-word phrase) is used only for recovery and is never entered into Ledger® Live after initial setup.
When prompted, choose a strong app password to lock the Ledger® Live application. This protects the app interface on that device. Note that the password does not replace the recovery phrase — it only prevents someone with physical access to your computer from opening Ledger® Live without the password.
Connect the Ledger device via USB (or Bluetooth for Ledger Nano X where supported) and follow Ledger® Live prompts to pair. Confirm prompts on the physical device when asked. Approve only what you intend to approve: displaying addresses, confirming transactions, and enabling apps on the device.
Ledger devices use small apps on the device for each coin or token family (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum). Use Ledger® Live to install these apps to the device and then add accounts for the corresponding cryptocurrencies.
Device storage is limited; remove apps you don’t use to free space — removing an app does not delete the accounts or funds on the blockchain. Reinstall the app when needed and re-add the account in Ledger® Live — your funds remain safe as long as you have your recovery phrase.
Ledger® Live provides a guided flow for sending and receiving. Always verify addresses on the device screen before confirming a transaction; never blindly accept an address shown only in the app window.
Use the Receive button in Ledger® Live to generate an address; verify the displayed address on your Ledger device screen. Use the same address only as long as you trust the key — for some coins you may use new addresses per transaction for privacy.
Hardware wallets add a strong layer of security but are not foolproof if the recovery phrase or device is compromised. Combine device security with personal operational security (OpSec).
If you receive unsolicited messages asking for your recovery phrase, or are instructed to send funds to resolve an issue, treat it as fraud. Contact Ledger support through official channels and isolate your seed immediately if you suspect compromise.
Problems often include device not detected, Ledger® Live sync issues, or app install errors. First, confirm cables and ports, ensure the device screen is on, and check for available firmware updates. Ledger support provides diagnostic steps on their site.
Back up once via the 24-word recovery phrase during setup. To recover on a new device, select restore and enter the same phrase. Consider an emergency plan: if you lose the device but have the seed, funds can be recovered on any compatible BIP39/BIP44-supporting wallet — but be careful: only restore with trustworthy solutions.
If you intend others to access funds in case of incapacity or death, plan carefully: legal wills, secure sealed instructions, or trusted emergency custodial arrangements are common approaches. Never publish your seed.
Ledger Live mobile (iOS/Android) provides convenient on-the-go management and can pair with the Ledger device over USB or Bluetooth (device dependent). Desktop offers a larger interface and is often preferred for larger or more frequent operations.
Ledger® Live continues to add features such as staking, swaps (through partners), portfolio view, and native integration with third-party apps. Understand each feature’s partner and the on-chain implications before authorizing new flows.
When connecting third-party dApps, always confirm contract data on the device and only grant the minimum permissions required. Use a small test transaction first when interacting with a new contract to reduce risk.
Below are curated resources including the earlier Office links plus Ledger links and quick templates that can help you document your setup, emergency plan, and transaction logs.
Use these templates to keep an auditable record (store copies in secure offline archives):
Ledger® Live combined with a genuine Ledger hardware wallet provides a powerful security setup for managing crypto. Follow this guide: verify official downloads, protect your recovery phrase physically, keep software and firmware updated, and always verify transaction details on the device screen. Use the Office templates linked above to keep clean, auditable documentation. With consistent habits, you’ll reduce the chance of loss or compromise.