1. What is Ledger® Live?
Ledger® Live is the official desktop and mobile application from Ledger for managing hardware wallets, apps, and your cryptocurrency portfolio. It connects to Ledger devices such as the Ledger Nano S Plus and Ledger Nano X and provides an interface to install apps, send and receive assets, and check portfolio performance.
2. Quick prerequisites
- Device: Ledger hardware wallet (e.g., Nano S Plus, Nano X).
- Computer or mobile: macOS, Windows, Linux, Android, or iOS.
- Internet: Required for downloads and updates.
3. Step‑by‑step setup
3.1 Download Ledger® Live
Get Ledger® Live only from the official Ledger website. Choose the desktop installer for Windows/macOS/Linux or the mobile app from official app stores.
3.2 Install and open
Run the installer and follow on‑screen instructions. When prompted, create a new profile or restore an existing one.
3.3 Initialize your Ledger device
Connect your Ledger device and either create a new device (generate a fresh recovery phrase) or restore from an existing recovery phrase you already own. Always set a secure PIN on the device.
Important security note
Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger will never ask for it online. Keep it offline, written on the recovery card provided, and store it in a safe place.
3.4 Add accounts in Ledger® Live
In Ledger® Live, go to Accounts > Add account, select the cryptocurrency, and follow prompts to connect the Ledger device and add the account to your portfolio.
3.5 Install apps on your device
Use the Manager tab in Ledger® Live to install blockchain apps (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) on your device. Each app corresponds to one or more blockchains and enables interaction with that chain.
4. Performing transactions
To send crypto: open the Send flow in Ledger® Live, enter the recipient address, confirm amount and fees, then physically confirm the transaction on your Ledger device. For receiving, use the Receive flow and verify the address on your device's screen.
5. Maintenance & updates
Keep Ledger® Live and your device firmware up to date. Ledger releases security updates and improvements — install them promptly from within the app's notifications or the Manager.
Troubleshooting tips
- If your device is not recognized, try a different USB cable or port, and ensure Ledger® Live is allowed to access the device.
- Reinstall Ledger® Live from the official site if you suspect a corrupted installation.
6. Best practices
- Keep firmware and app versions updated.
- Use a strong PIN and consider enabling passphrase features only if you understand them.
- Store your recovery phrase offline and in multiple secure locations.
Quick keyboard help
On desktop, use Ctrl/Cmd + Q to quit Ledger® Live safely when not in use.
7. Resources & official links
Use the links below to access downloads, support, and device documentation from Ledger's official domains.