Ledger® Live Wallet – Getting Started™

Overview

Ledger Live is the official companion app for Ledger hardware wallets that helps you manage accounts, buy, swap, stake, and track assets while keeping private keys offline on your device. This guide focuses on the essentials: downloading the app, initial device setup, safety best practices, and common tasks inside Ledger Live.

1. Setup — First steps

1.1 Download and install

Always download Ledger Live from the official Ledger website. Choose the correct installer for your OS and verify the file signature if desired.

1.2 Initialize your Ledger device

When you power on your Ledger hardware wallet for the first time:

• Follow on-screen prompts to set a PIN.
• Write down your recovery phrase (24 words by default) on the provided recovery sheet — never store it digitally.
• Keep the recovery phrase private; Ledger will never ask for it.

Quick checklist

• Download Ledger Live from the official site.
• Set a secure PIN on the device.
• Record and store your recovery phrase offline and in multiple secure locations.

2. Security — core best practices

Security is the whole point of using a hardware wallet. A few rules dramatically reduce risk.

2.1 Never share your seed phrase

No legitimate app, support agent, or service will ever ask you to type your 24-word recovery phrase into a website or form. Entering the phrase outside the device can give attackers full access to your funds.

2.2 Verify downloads & updates

Download Ledger Live from ledger.com only. Verify app signatures and confirm firmware updates using the device screen before approving.

2.3 Phishing & fake apps

Be cautious of cloned/fake Ledger apps and phishing pages. If something looks suspicious, validate the URL and never follow unsolicited links.

3. Using Ledger Live — everyday tasks

3.1 Add accounts

Connect your Ledger device, open Ledger Live, go to Accounts → Add account, select the crypto and follow prompts to add the on-device account.

3.2 Send & receive

Use Receive to generate an address on the device and copy it into the sending service. Always confirm addresses on the device screen.

3.3 Buy, Swap, Stake

Ledger Live integrates third-party providers to buy or swap crypto and supports staking for select assets. Third-party actions require on-device confirmation.

4. Updates & maintenance

4.1 Firmware and app updates

Keep device firmware and Ledger Live up to date. When Ledger Live prompts, connect and confirm updates on the device. Do not accept updates from unofficial sources.

4.2 Backup & recovery drills

Periodically check your recovery plan. Make sure your recovery phrase copies are legible, stored in separate secure locations, and accessible to you in an emergency.

5. Advanced features & troubleshooting

5.1 Passphrase (advanced)

Ledger supports an optional passphrase that creates additional hidden accounts. This is advanced — use it only after understanding risks and benefits.

5.2 Using third-party wallets

Ledger devices can integrate with third-party wallets (e.g., MetaMask, Electrum) to access assets not natively exposed in Ledger Live. Confirm compatibility first.

5.3 Troubleshooting

If you see unexpected behavior, consult official support documentation before trying unverified fixes. In most cases, do not share your recovery phrase with anyone.