Introduction
Ledger™ Live is the official software companion to Ledger hardware wallets, allowing users to manage crypto assets securely. With Ledger Live, you can check balances, send and receive funds, update firmware, stake assets, and interact with decentralized applications while keeping your private keys safely offline.
1. Downloading Ledger Live
Ledger Live is available for multiple platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website to ensure authenticity.
- Visit
ledger.com/ledger-livefor the latest version. - Select your platform: desktop (Windows/macOS/Linux) or mobile (iOS/Android).
- Verify the installation package using provided signatures and checksums for added security.
- Never download Ledger Live from third-party websites or links to avoid counterfeit software.
2. Installing Ledger Live
After downloading, follow installation instructions specific to your platform:
- Windows: Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
- macOS: Open the DMG file, drag Ledger Live to Applications.
- Linux: Extract the package and run the installation script as instructed.
- Mobile: Install via App Store or Google Play Store.
- For desktop installations, ensure that security settings allow Ledger Live to run, especially on macOS and Linux.
3. Launching Ledger Live and Initial Setup
When opening Ledger Live for the first time, choose from:
- Set up a new device.
- Restore an existing device using a recovery phrase.
- Open an existing Ledger Live profile.
Never enter recovery phrases on a computer or phone except when restoring on the physical device as instructed.
4. Connecting Your Ledger Hardware
Ledger devices connect via USB or Bluetooth (Nano X). Always use the official cable and avoid unknown hubs:
- Plug your device directly into the computer or use Bluetooth for Nano X.
- Enter the PIN directly on the hardware device.
- Ledger Live will detect the device and guide you through setup.
- Device connection guide
- Troubleshooting connectivity
5. Adding Accounts
Ledger Live App lets you manage multiple cryptocurrency accounts securely.
- Install cryptocurrency apps on the device via Ledger Live.
- Add accounts to manage Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other supported assets.
- Monitor balances, transactions, and total portfolio value.
- Label accounts for better organization.
- Supported cryptocurrency list
- Account management tips
6. Sending and Receiving Funds
All transactions are verified directly on your Ledger device:
- Verify receiving addresses on the device screen.
- Confirm sending amounts and addresses on-device before approval.
- Perform small test transactions before large transfers.
- Transaction fee guide
- Receiving crypto securely
- Sending crypto securely
7. Firmware Updates
Keeping your Ledger device firmware updated is essential for security and functionality:
- Ledger Live automatically checks for firmware updates.
- Follow on-device instructions to install updates.
- Verify the authenticity of the firmware before installation.
- Firmware update guide
- Troubleshooting firmware issues
8. Security Practices
- Never share your recovery phrase or PIN.
- Keep Ledger Live App updated.
- Enable optional passphrase protection for hidden wallets.
- Store recovery phrases securely offline, consider metal backups.
- Daily security checklist
- Avoid phishing attacks
9. Backup and Recovery
Your recovery phrase is the only reliable backup for restoring your wallet:
- Write the 24-word phrase on the official card or a metal backup device.
- Store copies in secure, geographically separated locations.
- Never store backups digitally (photo, cloud, notes).
- Recovery procedure guide
- Restoring a device safely
10. Advanced Features
- Stake supported cryptocurrencies directly via Ledger Live.
- Interact with DApps using Ledger hardware.
- Use multisignature wallets for institutional security.
- Staking guide
- DApp integration
- Multisig wallet setup
11. Troubleshooting
- Device not detected: check cables, ports, restart Ledger Live.
- Forgot PIN: reset device and restore using recovery phrase.
- Unprompted requests for recovery phrase: stop, verify, contact official support.
- Ledger support
- Troubleshooting guide
12. Daily Best Practices
- Confirm addresses and amounts on-device before signing.
- Keep Ledger Live App and firmware up to date.
- Perform small test transactions before major transfers.
- Regularly check backups and recovery phrase security.
- Safe transaction tips
- Security checklist
13. Accessibility and Tips
- Ledger Live supports keyboard navigation and high-contrast displays.