Ledger® Live: | Getting started with Ledger

A compact, ~800-word walkthrough and presentation-ready HTML file to help new users install, secure, and use Ledger with Ledger Live.

Introduction

Ledger Live is the companion app for Ledger hardware wallets — a single, secure interface to manage your crypto portfolio, install apps on your device, send/receive assets, and access Web3. This short guide explains why a hardware wallet matters, how to install Ledger Live, perform the first-time setup, and follow security best practices.

Why a hardware wallet?

  • Private keys never leave the device — transactions must be approved on the device screen.
  • Reduced attack surface compared with custodial services or hot wallets.
  • Works with many blockchains via Ledger Live's app ecosystem.

Getting Ledger Live (install)

Download Ledger Live only from official sources. Install the desktop or mobile version that matches your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android). After install, open Ledger Live and choose “Get started” to create or restore an account.

Initial device setup

  • Connect your Ledger device and follow on-screen instructions — set a PIN and write down your recovery phrase (24 words recommended).
  • Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger or any legitimate service will never ask for it.
  • Use the Ledger Live Manager to install blockchain apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.) on the device.

Core flows in Ledger Live

  • Accounts: Add accounts after installing the corresponding app on your device; Ledger Live will sync balances and transaction history.
  • Send & Receive: Use the receive address shown in Ledger Live and verify it on-device before receiving funds. For sending, review the transaction details on your device screen and confirm physically.
  • Buy / Swap / Stake: Ledger partners offer integrated buy/sell/swap and staking services inside Ledger Live — third-party providers handle KYC and execution; always review fees.

Security best practices (most important)

  • Only download Ledger Live from ledger.com. Beware of fake apps and phishing — check the URL and certificate.
  • Never enter your 24-word recovery phrase into any app or website; store it offline in a safe place.
  • Keep firmware and Ledger Live up to date via the official update process in the app’s settings.
  • Consider additional protections like a passphrase (advanced feature) and using Ledger as a FIDO security key where supported.

Troubleshooting & support

If Ledger Live doesn't recognize your device, ensure the cable/port is working and the device is unlocked. For firmware prompts or unexpected messages, consult official support pages rather than following email links. Ledger support has step‑by‑step articles for updates, installs, and recovery.

Where to learn more

Below are the most relevant official Ledger resources (official pages maintained by Ledger). Use them as your primary reference and always verify you're on the ledger.com domain before taking action.

Ledger Live — Download Ledger Start — Setup Guide Ledger Live — Product Page Ledger Support Center Ledger OS Update Guide How to Update Ledger Live Best Safety Practices Ledger Nano S Plus (shop) Ledger FIDO / U2F Ledger Academy — Security

Quick checklist (printable)

1) Download Ledger Live from ledger.com
2) Connect device, set a PIN
3) Write and store your 24-word recovery phrase offline
4) Install apps via Ledger Live Manager
5) Add accounts & verify receive addresses on-device
6) Keep firmware & Ledger Live updated
7) Never share your recovery phrase