This official‑style guide walks new users through Ledger® Live — Ledger's desktop and mobile companion app. You will learn how to download Ledger Live, set up a Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus / Nano X), install apps, add accounts, and perform everyday transactions while keeping security best practices front and center.
Beginners who own (or are about to buy) a Ledger hardware wallet and want a clear step‑by‑step setup. It assumes basic computer and smartphone knowledge but explains each step precisely.
Visit the official Ledger download page and choose the version for your operating system. Open the downloaded installer and follow on‑screen instructions. Ledger Live has a signed installer; confirm the OS prompts.
Search for "Ledger Live" on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, or use the official page links below to jump to the store listing. Ledger Live mobile supports Bluetooth for Ledger Nano X.
Power on the device, choose to "Create a new device," set a PIN code (4–8 digits), and write down the 24‑word recovery phrase exactly as displayed. These steps are performed on the device screen — not the app — for stronger security.
If you already have a 24‑word phrase from another compatible wallet, choose "Restore device" and carefully enter the words in order.
Ledger devices use small apps to manage different blockchains (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.). Open Ledger Live, go to Manager, and install the apps you need. Each app uses a small amount of device memory — uninstalling an app does not delete your funds (they're secured by your recovery phrase).
After installing an app, click Add account in Ledger Live, follow prompts, and allow Ledger Live to scan for existing addresses. Accounts are viewable in Ledger Live and ready for transactions.
In Ledger Live, choose the account, click Receive, and confirm the receive address on your device. Always verify the full address on the device screen before sharing it.
Click Send, enter the recipient address and amount, choose network fees if applicable, then confirm the transaction details on the device. Transactions are cryptographically signed on‑device — your private keys never leave the Ledger device.
Ledger Live supports staking for several networks. Check the Rewards / Staking section for supported assets, minimums, and reward rates. Staking is done via Ledger Live with on‑device confirmations.
Ledger Live integrates with third‑party providers to swap assets within the app. Review provider fees and confirm swaps on the device before approving.
Treat your recovery phrase as the single source of truth. Store it offline and in a secure location (preferably in two geographically separated copies).
Keep your device firmware and Ledger Live app updated. Official updates patch security fixes and add new blockchain support. Verify firmware updates using Ledger Live and the device prompts.
If your device is lost or stolen, your funds remain safe as long as your recovery phrase is not compromised. Use the recovery phrase to restore on a new Ledger device (or compatible wallet).
If you run into issues, consult the official Ledger Support pages (links below) and the Ledger Help Center. Common fixes include reinstalling Ledger Live, re‑connecting the device, or updating drivers on desktop systems.
If Ledger Live can't detect your device on desktop, try a different USB cable/port and confirm that the device screen is unlocked and on the home screen.
All links above are to Ledger's official domains. Bookmark the official pages and avoid third‑party mirrors.
ledger.com.