Download Ledger Live
To begin, download Ledger Live from the official source at ledger.com/start. Choose the version for your platform — Windows, macOS, Linux, or mobile. Using the official site ensures you get the authentic, signed installer and receive updates directly from Ledger.
Install and first-time setup
- Run the Ledger Live installer you downloaded and follow the platform prompts to install.
- When first launched, Ledger Live presents a setup flow: choose Get started, select your device model, and decide whether to set up a new device or restore an existing one.
- During this initial flow, Ledger Live will offer the option to create an application password — the Ledger Live local login — to encrypt local app data like account labels and settings.
The Ledger Live local login is distinct from your Ledger hardware PIN. Keep both secure and remember that the application password protects only local app data; it does not control the hardware device.
Set up your Ledger device
Power on your Ledger device and follow the on-device prompts to either set it up as a new device or restore from an existing recovery phrase. Set a PIN on the device and write down your 24-word recovery phrase on the supplied recovery card — never store it digitally.
Ledger® Live: Login — after device setup, connect the device to Ledger Live and, if desired, enable the Ledger Live application password to add an extra layer of local protection.
The Ledger Live login experience
Ledger Live supports an optional application password that encrypts and unlocks local Ledger Live data. When you open Ledger Live, the app will prompt for this password if it was configured. This login is convenient to protect your account labels and settings from unauthorized access on your device.
Important distinctions:
- Ledger Live application password: Protects local stored preferences and labels. It can be reset by reinstalling Ledger Live — this does not affect your actual crypto holdings.
- Ledger device PIN: Entered on the hardware device; required to unlock the device and approve transaction signing.
Unlocking your Ledger device
To perform any transaction or install apps, you must connect and unlock your Ledger device by entering the PIN directly on the device's physical buttons. Never enter the Ledger PIN into a computer or phone keyboard — always use the device interface.
Ledger® Live: Login — even if Ledger Live is unlocked via the application password, the device still needs to be connected and unlocked to sign transactions.
Manager: install and update apps
The Manager section of Ledger Live allows you to install blockchain-specific apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.) on your Ledger device. Each app occupies a small portion of device storage. If space runs low, you can uninstall unused apps and reinstall them later — funds are preserved because accounts are derived from your seed.
Ledger® Live: Login — to use Manager you must unlock the device and authorize Manager access in Ledger Live.
Adding and managing accounts
In Ledger Live, go to Accounts → Add account, choose the cryptocurrency, and follow the prompts. Ledger Live will scan addresses derived from your device's seed to populate balances and history.
You can add multiple accounts for the same currency and label them to stay organized. The local Ledger Live login protects these labels and settings if enabled.
Receiving funds
- Select the account and click Receive.
- Ledger Live will display a receiving address; verify this exact address on your Ledger device screen and approve it before sharing.
- Use the verified address in the sending service and begin with a small test amount.
Address verification on-device prevents clipboard or display tampering by malware.
Sending funds
- Click Send, input the recipient address and amount, and choose fee level.
- Review the transaction in Ledger Live, then verify the full transaction details on your Ledger device before approving to sign.
- Only approve transactions you initiated — if anything looks unfamiliar, cancel and investigate.
Ledger® Live: Login — the application password does not affect transaction signing; only the unlocked Ledger device can sign transactions.
Security best practices
- Never share your 24-word recovery phrase. Ledger support will never ask for it.
- Store the recovery phrase offline in a secure location (paper or metal backup).
- Use strong unique passwords for your Ledger Live application password and device PINs that are not easy to guess.
- Enable auto-lock for Ledger Live and lock your computer when not in use.
- Always verify transactions and addresses on-device before approving.
Troubleshooting common issues
Ledger Live doesn’t detect my device
Try a different USB cable (data-capable), try another USB port, ensure the device is unlocked (enter PIN) and restart Ledger Live. On mobile, confirm Bluetooth permissions and pairing for Nano X.
App installation or firmware update problems
Ensure you downloaded Ledger Live from the official site. Firmware and app updates should be applied via Ledger Live; interruptions can cause issues. If updates fail repeatedly, consult Ledger Support for guidance.
Firmware updates
Ledger occasionally releases signed firmware updates to improve security and add features. Apply firmware updates through Ledger Live when prompted. Do not attempt to flash firmware from untrusted sources.
Ledger® Live: Login — firmware updates require the device be connected and unlocked; follow on-screen instructions carefully.
Passphrase (advanced)
An optional passphrase acts as a 25th word and creates a distinct wallet. While powerful for privacy and security, it increases recovery complexity: losing the passphrase means losing access to funds on that derived wallet. Use only if you understand the implications and store the passphrase securely.
Third-party wallets and dApp integrations
Ledger integrates with third-party wallets and decentralized apps. When connecting external apps, always verify transactions and permissions on your Ledger device. Keep private keys on the Ledger hardware; never export them.
Mobile — Bluetooth and Ledger Live Mobile
Ledger Live mobile pairs with Nano X over Bluetooth. Install Ledger Live from the App Store or Google Play and follow the in-app pairing instructions. For security-sensitive tasks, prefer using the hardware buttons on the device to confirm actions.
Desktop — USB, drivers, and OS notes
On desktop, use the supplied USB cable or a known data-capable cable. Some operating systems may require additional drivers; follow the prompts from Ledger Live or the OS. Keep your OS updated and avoid installing suspicious software that may attempt to intercept Ledger Live communications.
Advanced topics
For power users: consider multi-device strategies, multisig via compatible wallets, and using dedicated cold-storage workflows. Ledger supports a variety of advanced integrations — consult Ledger documentation for chain-specific guidance.
FAQ
Does Ledger Live store private keys?
No. Private keys remain securely on the Ledger hardware device. Ledger Live creates unsigned transactions and sends them to the device for signing.
What if I forget my Ledger Live password?
Reinstalling Ledger Live will remove local data and the application password but will not affect the funds. Reconnect your Ledger device and re-add accounts to restore visibility of balances.
Resources
- Ledger.com/start — official downloads and device setup.
- Ledger Support — help articles and contact options.
- Ledger Learning Center — guides and deep dives.
Need help?
If you encounter issues that you can’t resolve with the guidance above, visit Ledger Support or the Learning Center. They offer step-by-step articles and contact options for device-specific problems.
Reminder: Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. If anyone asks for it, it’s a scam.