Quick summary
Ledger™ Live is the official app for managing cryptocurrencies with Ledger hardware wallets. This page walks you through safely downloading Ledger Live, initializing your Ledger™ device, adding accounts, sending and receiving crypto, staking, and protecting your recovery phrase. It’s designed to be practical and actionable for beginners while still useful for experienced users.
Download Ledger Live
Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. Choose the installer matching your operating system: macOS, Windows, Linux, or download the mobile apps from the App Store or Google Play (publisher: Ledger SAS). Beware of impersonator apps — verify the publisher and official domain before downloading.
Pro tip: Check the download checksum or signature if Ledger provides it to ensure file integrity.
Install & initial launch
- Run the installer and follow the on-screen prompts.
- Launch Ledger Live and accept the terms and privacy preferences.
- When prompted, connect your Ledger™ device via USB (or Bluetooth for supported models) and unlock it with your PIN.
Set up or restore your Ledger device
On first use you can either set up a brand-new Ledger™ device or restore an existing wallet using a 24‑word recovery phrase:
- Create new: Choose to create a new wallet on-device, set a PIN, and write down the 24‑word recovery phrase provided by the device.
- Restore: If you already have a recovery phrase, select the restore option and enter your 24‑word phrase on the device to recover accounts.
Never type your 24‑word recovery phrase into Ledger Live, a website, or store it digitally. Ledger support will never ask for it.
Add accounts & manage apps
In Ledger Live, go to "Accounts" > "Add account" and select the blockchain you want to manage (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Ledger Live may require you to install a specific blockchain app on the Ledger device via the Manager tab — follow the prompts to install or remove apps safely.
Receiving crypto
To receive funds, select an account and click "Receive." Ledger Live will display the address and ask you to confirm it on your Ledger device. Always confirm the address on the device screen matches the one shown in Ledger Live before sharing it. This prevents malware that modifies clipboard content or on-screen values.
Sending crypto
To send funds, click "Send" in the appropriate account, enter the recipient address and amount, and choose the network fee. Ledger Live will prepare the transaction and the Ledger device will display transaction details for manual confirmation — including the destination address and fee. Only approve if everything is correct.
Staking, NFTs & dApps
Ledger Live supports staking for multiple networks, enabling you to delegate or stake directly from the app. It also displays supported NFT collections and facilitates transfers on compatible networks. For dApp interactions, use WalletConnect or supported integrations and approve all signatures on your Ledger device.
Buy & swap via partners
Ledger Live lists partner services for buying or swapping crypto. These are third-party providers that may require KYC and additional fees. Ledger Live shows partner information and fees before you proceed; review them carefully.
Security best practices
- Store your 24‑word recovery phrase offline and in multiple secure physical locations.
- Use metal backups for durability against fire and water where appropriate.
- Verify all transaction information on your Ledger device before confirming.
- Only download Ledger Live from Ledger’s official site and official app stores.
- Keep your device firmware and Ledger Live app up to date, following guided update steps.
Troubleshooting — common issues
Device not detected: Try a different USB cable or port, ensure the device is unlocked, and check for OS permissions that block USB access. For Bluetooth connection issues, unpair and re-pair the device following the official guide.
Missing accounts or tokens: Install the correct blockchain app on the device (Manager tab) and re-add the account in Ledger Live. For custom tokens, add them manually if supported.
Privacy & telemetry
Ledger Live sends minimal telemetry by default and offers settings to control data sharing. Public addresses are used to fetch balances — private keys never leave your device. Review and adjust telemetry preferences in the app settings if you prefer tighter privacy.
When to contact official support
Contact Ledger’s official support channels for hardware malfunctions, firmware issues, or if you suspect compromise. Never follow support instructions from unofficial sources that ask for your recovery phrase — such requests are scams.