This step-by-step guide walks you through securely setting up Ledger Live, accessing your Ledger account, managing crypto assets, and following best security practices. Follow each step closely — hardware wallets are only as secure as the setup and handling you apply.
Go to the official Ledger website to download Ledger Live. Only download software from the official site and verify the URL in your browser address bar. Ledger Live is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS and Android.
Follow the installer instructions. When you first open Ledger Live, you'll see an onboarding flow that guides you to connect your Ledger device and create or restore wallets.
Connect the Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S, Nano X or other supported device) via the provided USB cable or Bluetooth (if applicable). Use only the official cable that came with your device or a high-quality replacement from a trusted vendor.
On the device, choose Create a new wallet to generate a new seed phrase, or Restore if you already have a 24-word recovery phrase from an earlier Ledger device. Never enter your recovery phrase into a computer or smartphone — only input it using the device when prompted while offline.
Choose a strong PIN on the device. This adds a layer of local protection; the device will lock after a few incorrect attempts. If the device is lost or stolen, the PIN prevents immediate access to the accounts stored on it.
Ledger devices display a 24-word recovery phrase during setup. Write it down on the supplied recovery card or another secure medium. Consider metal backup plates for long-term protection against fire and water. Store the phrase in a safe, offline place — consider multiple geographically separated copies.
After device setup, open Ledger Live and add accounts for the cryptocurrencies you want to manage (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.). Ledger Live will sync account addresses from your device; balances are read-only until you sign transactions on the hardware.
Ledger Live uses your device to authorize and sign transactions. There is no central "password" that controls your crypto — access is through the physical device + PIN and the recovery phrase for recovery.
Receive crypto — use Ledger Live to show an address from your device and verify it on the device screen. Send crypto — prepare the transaction in Ledger Live and confirm (sign) on the device.
If Ledger Live doesn't detect your device: try a different USB port/cable, update your OS, restart Ledger Live, and ensure the device firmware is up to date. If connectivity issues persist, consult official Ledger support.
Protecting your funds is mostly about good habits. Below are practical recommendations and an explanation of why they matter.
Your 24-word recovery phrase is the single most sensitive item. Ledger or any legitimate service will never ask you to type it into a website, app, or share it by message. If anyone asks for your recovery phrase, it's a scam.
Ledger periodically releases firmware and Ledger Live updates that include bug fixes and security improvements. Apply updates only through official channels and verify they’re legitimate.
Phishing websites try to impersonate Ledger to steal credentials or trick you into entering your recovery phrase. Always verify the domain (ledger.com) and use bookmarks for critical pages.
Ledger supports an optional passphrase that acts like a 25th word. It provides additional protection but also increases complexity — losing the passphrase means losing access. Only use it if you understand the implications.
Ledger Live can be installed on multiple computers or phones. Your accounts are derived from the same recovery phrase; signing transactions still requires the physical Ledger device.
If you lose the device but still have your recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet on a new Ledger device or any compatible wallet that supports BIP39/BIP44 derivation. If you lose both the device and recovery phrase, funds cannot be recovered.
No — Ledger Live is a wallet interface. Your private keys remain on the Ledger device and are never uploaded to Ledger servers. Ledger cannot move or access your funds without your approval via the device.
For firmware updates, official downloads, and guides visit the official Ledger website. If you need personalized help, reach out through Ledger's official support channels. Beware of support scams on social media — always confirm support links and email addresses before sharing any information.