Learn how to securely set up, access, and manage your crypto assets using Ledger Live and a Ledger hardware wallet.
What is Ledger Live?
Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application developed by Ledger to interact with Ledger hardware wallets. It provides a secure, user-friendly interface to view balances, send and receive cryptocurrencies, manage multiple accounts, install apps on your device, and perform firmware updates. Ledger Live acts as a bridge — it prepares transactions on your computer or phone while the private keys stay protected inside the hardware device.
Why use a hardware wallet with Ledger Live?
Hardware wallets store private keys in a secure element that is isolated from your computer or phone. When you request a transaction through Ledger Live, the transaction is sent to the hardware device for signing. Because signing requires a physical confirmation on the device, remote attackers cannot execute transactions even if your computer is compromised.
Getting started: setup and initialization
Download Ledger Live: Install Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. Verify the download checksum where available and prefer the official source to avoid tampered installers.
Unbox your Ledger device: Inspect the package for tampering. Ledger devices come sealed; if the box looks opened or suspicious, contact Ledger support and do not use the device.
Initialize the device: Follow the on-screen steps on the device to create a new wallet or restore using an existing recovery phrase. Ledger will generate a 24-word recovery seed (or accept one from another compatible wallet) — write it down exactly in the provided recovery sheet and store it offline.
Create a PIN: Choose a PIN on your Ledger device. The PIN protects access to the device and must be entered on the hardware itself.
Connect to Ledger Live: Open Ledger Live, select the model of your device, and follow the connection prompts. Ledger Live may ask you to install apps for specific blockchains (for example, Bitcoin or Ethereum) directly onto the device.
Using Ledger Live: common tasks
Adding accounts
In Ledger Live, click Add account, choose the cryptocurrency, connect your device, and open the corresponding app on the device. Ledger Live will derive and display accounts associated with your recovery seed.
Sending funds
Compose a transaction within Ledger Live by entering the recipient address, amount, and optional fees. The unsigned transaction is sent to your Ledger device for review — verify the address and amount on the device screen before approving. Approving signs the transaction with your private key and then the client broadcasts it to the network.
Receiving funds
Use Receive to generate a fresh address. Always verify the same address appears on your Ledger device before sharing it with the sender — this prevents address-replacement attacks by malicious software on your computer.
Security best practices
Purchase from official sources: Buy Ledger devices only from Ledger's official store or authorized resellers. Avoid second-hand devices.
Protect your recovery phrase: Store the 24-word seed offline in a secure location. Consider a metal backup for fire and water resistance. Never share the seed with anyone and never enter it into a computer or web form.
Keep firmware and Ledger Live updated: Regular updates include security fixes and new features. Only update from within Ledger Live or official instructions.
Use a secure environment: Install Ledger Live only on trusted devices. Avoid public or compromised machines for sensitive operations.
Verify addresses on-device: Always confirm addresses and transaction details on your Ledger screen — never rely solely on what's shown in the app.
Beware of phishing: Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase or PIN via email or web forms. Bookmark Ledger's official support pages and double-check URLs before downloading or entering sensitive information.
Advanced features
Ledger Live supports portfolio tracking, staking for supported coins, swap integrations, and application management on your device. Advanced users can connect to external wallets or explorers, use developer tools, or manage multi-account setups for different cryptocurrencies.
Troubleshooting
Common issues and fixes:
Device not detected: Try a different USB cable or port, ensure the device is unlocked with the PIN, and confirm firmware is compatible with Ledger Live version. Reboot your computer if needed.
App missing on device: Open Ledger Live Manager and install the required blockchain app onto the device.
Restore issues: If recovering from the seed, ensure words are entered in the exact order and spelled correctly. If unsure, pause and verify the physical seed before proceeding.
Transaction delays: Network congestion may delay confirmations. Ledger Live shows transaction status; you can check the transaction hash on a block explorer if needed.
What if I lose my Ledger device?
If your device is lost or stolen, your funds remain secure as long as your recovery seed is safe. Use your recovery phrase to restore accounts on a new Ledger device or any compatible wallet. If the seed is compromised, transfer funds immediately to a new wallet with a fresh recovery phrase.
