Ledger® Live — Login & Getting Started | Getting Started Guide with Ledger®

Quick overview

This guide covers the essentials for using Ledger® Live (now commonly listed as Ledger Wallet™ in some places): where to download it, how to complete initial setup with a Ledger hardware device, how to backup and restore accounts, keeping firmware up to date, and the security habits every user should adopt.

Step 1 — Download & install Ledger Live

Official download

Always download Ledger Live / Ledger Wallet only from Ledger’s official website. Avoid third-party sites and never follow links in unsolicited emails or messages. Choose the correct installer for your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux) or get the mobile app for iOS/Android when needed.

Pro tip

After download, verify the binary checksum or signature Ledger provides (a small extra step that prevents tampered installers). Ledger publishes signature files that you can compare against your download to confirm authenticity.

Step 2 — First-time setup and login

Connect your Ledger device

Plug your Ledger hardware wallet (Nano S Plus, Nano X, Stax, etc.) into your computer or connect via Bluetooth (if supported). On first boot you’ll set a PIN and be shown a recovery phrase — write it down on the supplied recovery card and keep it offline and secure.

Create or restore

You’ll be asked whether you want to Create a new device (generate a fresh seed) or Restore device (use an existing 24-word recovery phrase). If restoring, follow the on-screen steps carefully and never enter your seed on a computer or a website — only on the device when explicitly prompted.

Login flow (Ledger Live)

1. Open Ledger Live and choose Get started.
2. Select your device model and whether you are creating or restoring.
3. Set a PIN on the device; write the recovery phrase on the card—never store it digitally.
4. Install apps for specific coins (e.g., Bitcoin app) in Ledger Live's Manager and add accounts.

Why the device screen matters

Always verify that critical information (addresses, transaction amounts) appears on the device screen, not just in your computer or phone UI. The device signs transactions and displays confirmations on its screen — this is your final safety check.

Step 3 — Managing accounts and assets

After installing coin apps in Ledger Live, add accounts and use the app to view balances, send & receive funds, stake, swap, or connect to decentralized apps where supported. Ledger Live gives a single-pane dashboard for all supported assets.

Adding an account

1. Open Ledger Live → Accounts → Add account.
2. Pick a cryptocurrency and follow the prompts to sync addresses.
3. Receive funds using the receive button and verify the receive address on the device.

Step 4 — Keep firmware & Ledger Live up to date

Ledger periodically releases OS (device firmware) and Ledger Live app updates to add features and patch security issues. Install updates only when advised by official Ledger sources and while connected to the internet. Ledger Live shows update notifications and will guide you through safe updates.

How to update safely

• Open Ledger Live → My Ledger (or Manager) and follow the update prompts.
• Never enter recovery phrases during updates; the device will not ask for it to update.
• Verify update prompts on the device screen and follow instructions to finalize the OS update.

Step 5 — Security best practices (non-negotiable)

Never share your recovery phrase. Ledger will never ask for your 24-word seed — any request for it is a scam. Download software only from ledger.com and verify signatures when possible.

Daily habits

• Use a strong PIN and never write it next to your recovery phrase.
• Keep the recovery phrase offline, ideally in a safe or secure location.
• Beware of phishing: bookmarks are safer than search results for visiting Ledger pages.
• If you see prompts that ask for your seed phrase or instruct you to enter it on a webpage, stop — it’s fraudulent.

What to do if you suspect compromise

If you believe your recovery phrase has been exposed, move funds immediately by initializing a new device with a new recovery phrase and transferring assets out. Contact official Ledger support for guidance if needed.

Troubleshooting & extra tips

Common issues

• Device not recognized: try a different cable/port; ensure Ledger Live permissions are set.
• App install fails: reboot device & Ledger Live, ensure device OS is current.
• Fake apps or malware: uninstall suspicious apps and ONLY reinstall from official links.

Resources

Consult Ledger’s support center and academy pages (linked above) for in-depth troubleshooting, step-by-step pictures, and official announcements.