Ledger® Live App — Getting started™ with Ledger®

Overview

Ledger Live is the official app for managing Ledger hardware wallets. Available as a desktop application and a mobile app, Ledger Live is an interface — private keys remain on the Ledger device. The app helps you install blockchain apps on your device, add accounts, build transactions, stake assets, and manage device settings. This guide focuses on secure and practical steps for new and existing users.

Install Ledger Live

Desktop

1. Go to ledger.com/start and download the Ledger Live desktop installer for your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux).
2. Verify checksums if Ledger provides them. Install the application and open it. Create a local profile — this stores settings & cache locally, not your seed.

Mobile

1. Install Ledger Live from the App Store or Google Play. Only use the official store to avoid phishing apps.
2. Mobile supports pairing via Bluetooth (Nano X) or connecting via USB/OTG for supported devices.

Security tip: Bookmark the official download page to avoid phishing sites, and do not download Ledger Live from unknown links.

Onboarding — new device vs restore

New device setup

1. Connect your Ledger device using the official cable (desktop) or via Bluetooth/USB (mobile where supported).
2. Open Ledger Live and choose "Get started" → "Set up as new device".
3. Follow on-device prompts to create a PIN and generate your recovery phrase. Write the recovery phrase down by hand on the provided sheet — do not store digitally.

Restore existing wallet

1. Select "Restore device" on-device and input your recovery phrase using the device input method.
2. After the device restores, connect Ledger Live and add accounts to view balances and transact.

Pairing & connection

Ledger Live communicates with your device but cannot sign transactions without your physical confirmation on the device. Pairing is straightforward, but follow these safety steps:

• Use official cables and avoid untrusted USB hubs.
• On mobile, pair via Bluetooth only when necessary; Bluetooth adds a small additional attack surface compared to wired connections.
• When requested by Ledger Live, verify the device model and prompt text on the device screen before approving connections.

Accounts & Manager

Ledger Manager (inside Ledger Live) installs blockchain-specific apps that enable account support. Accounts are derived from your recovery phrase; installing or removing apps does not change your funds.

Adding accounts

1. Connect and unlock your Ledger device.
2. Open Ledger Live → Manager and install the app for the desired blockchain (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum).
3. Go to Accounts → Add account to scan and add addresses derived from your seed.

Note: For advanced tokens and NFTs you might need to use third-party wallets with Ledger support; confirm signatures on the device.

Transactions — receive, send, and verify

Receiving funds

1. Open Ledger Live → Accounts → Receive and choose the account.
2. Confirm the address shown in Ledger Live matches the address on your device.
3. Share the verified address with the sender.

Sending funds

1. Create a transaction in Ledger Live by entering the destination address and amount.
2. Review fees and transaction details in Ledger Live; then confirm the full details on your device before signing.
3. Ledger Live will broadcast the signed transaction to the network.

Always verify addresses on the device screen to protect against clipboard malware or host-side address substitution.

Staking & on-chain services

Ledger Live supports staking for some Proof-of-Stake networks. Staking workflows differ by chain; Ledger Live guides the process and the device confirms staking transactions.

1. Ensure the account supports staking in Ledger Live.
2. Choose a validator and confirm staking/delegation details on your device.
3. Monitor rewards, slashing policy, and unbonding periods in Ledger Live.

Staking carries protocol risk. Research validators and understand lock-up/unbonding timings before staking significant funds.

Firmware updates & device integrity

Firmware updates are required for security fixes and new features. Ledger signs firmware and Ledger Live coordinates updates. Always verify prompts and do not install unexpected firmware.

1. Ledger Live will notify you when firmware is available; read release notes.
2. Install firmware via Ledger Live while connected and confirm checksums/fingerprints if shown.
3. Do not disconnect during firmware updates. If interrupted, reconnect and follow recovery instructions.

Security best practices

• Buy devices from official or authorized retailers only.
• Write your recovery phrase by hand and store it offline in multiple secure locations.
• Use a strong PIN and consider an optional passphrase for hidden wallets if you can manage it safely.
• Verify addresses and transaction details on-device for every transaction.
• For high-value holdings consider multisig and custody diversification.

Support & troubleshooting

Common problems

• Device not detected — try original cable, different port, restart Ledger Live and your device.
• Bluetooth pairing issues — toggle Bluetooth, re-pair, or use wired connection where possible.
• Firmware update failures — reconnect and follow Ledger Live recovery instructions; contact official support if needed.

Lost recovery phrase

If you lose the recovery phrase and do not have device access, funds are unrecoverable. If you still have the device, generate a new seed on a new device and transfer funds.

FAQ

Can Ledger Live App integrate with MetaMask?

Yes — Ledger devices can sign transactions via MetaMask and other wallets; always confirm on-device.

Are NFTs supported?

NFT viewing and management may require third-party wallets; Ledger ensures private keys remain on-device during interactions.

What if my device is stolen?

If PIN and recovery phrase are secure, a thief cannot access funds. If the recovery phrase is compromised, move funds immediately.