Introduction
Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application that pairs with Ledger hardware wallets. It provides an interface to manage multiple cryptocurrencies, install blockchain applications on your device, sign transactions securely on the hardware, and keep a record of your portfolio. Because the security model relies on the hardware device holding private keys offline, Ledger Live is designed to be a companion application that never exposes your seed phrase.
Why verify before downloading
Downloading software from unknown sources is a leading vector for scams. Verifying the installer source and integrity prevents attackers from delivering tampered versions that attempt to trick users into revealing recovery phrases or installing malware. Always obtain the installer from an official and trusted channel and confirm checksums/signatures when available.
What you need
- A Ledger hardware device (e.g., Nano S Plus, Nano X) and the supplied cable.
- A desktop or mobile device for installing Ledger Live.
- A private place to write down your recovery phrase (paper or durable backup).
- Time and patience — initial setup typically takes 10–20 minutes.
Step 1 — Download Ledger Live
Choose the correct Ledger Live package for your operating system. For desktop, installers are available for Windows, macOS, and Linux; mobile versions are available for Android and iOS. If you manage downloads centrally for an organization, use an approved internal repository or package manager to distribute the installer.
Step 2 — Verify the installer (best practice)
After downloading, verify the installer’s integrity if checksum or signature files are available. Verifying ensures the file has not been altered. On most systems you can compute a checksum (e.g., SHA256) and compare it to the published value. Alternatively, verify cryptographic signatures using the vendor's public key if provided. If verification fails, re‑download from a trusted channel and do not run the installer until the check passes.
Step 3 — Install Ledger Live
Run the installer and follow the platform‑specific prompts. On desktop operating systems, you may be asked to grant permissions; only proceed if you trust the host machine. After installation, launch Ledger Live. On first run the app provides onboarding choices: set up as a new device, restore a device, or open an existing Ledger Live profile. Take a moment to read introductory notes presented during onboarding.
Step 4 — Prepare your hardware device
Inspect the device and box for tampering or physical damage. Confirm that accessories such as the USB cable and recovery sheet are included. If anything looks suspicious, contact the vendor or your organization's procurement/security team. Connect the device directly to the computer — avoid using unknown USB hubs or adapters during the initial setup.
Step 5 — Initialize (or restore) the device
If you are setting up a new device, choose the "set up as new device" option in Ledger Live. The device will prompt you to create a PIN and then generate a recovery phrase. Carefully record each word in order on the provided recovery sheet. Do not take photos or store the seed digitally. If you are restoring a previously used device, select the restore flow and input the recovery phrase using the device interface exactly as provided.
Security: PIN and Recovery Phrase
The device PIN protects access to the ledger device; choose a PIN that is not easily guessable but that you can remember. The recovery phrase (seed) is the ultimate backup. It can restore your wallet on another compatible device. Protect the seed with the same level of care as you would a physical vault key — offline storage is mandatory.
Step 6 — Install blockchain applications and add accounts
Ledger devices use small applications to support different blockchains. Within Ledger Live, use the manager to install needed apps (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.). Installing an app places the necessary code on the device so it can communicate with that blockchain. After installing apps, use the accounts tab to add wallets for the supported assets. Ledger Live will index accounts derived from your seed and display balances.
Step 7 — Receiving funds (verify on-device)
When receiving crypto, generate a receiving address in Ledger Live and always verify that exact address on the device display. Because the device signs and displays addresses independently, it is the trusted source; malware on the host machine can alter addresses shown in the application but cannot change what the device displays. Confirm the address matches before sharing it with a sender.
Step 8 — Sending funds (on-device confirmation)
Prepare the transaction in Ledger Live, including destination address, amount and fee. Ledger Live will pass the unsigned transaction to your device. Carefully review the transaction details on the device screen — confirm the recipient, amounts, fees and any smart contract data. Approve the transaction on the device to sign it; Ledger Live will broadcast the signed transaction to the network.
Step 9 — Regular maintenance and firmware updates
Firmware updates improve security and add features. Ledger Live notifies you when a verified firmware update is available. Always apply firmware updates via Ledger Live and confirm prompts on the device. Do not install firmware from unofficial sources, and verify update prompts match expected messages before proceeding.
Troubleshooting common issues
Device not recognized
If Ledger Live does not detect your device, try a different USB cable or port and connect directly to the computer. Restart Ledger Live and reboot the host system if needed. On some Linux distributions you may need to configure udev rules; refer to internal IT documentation for this step where applicable.
Forgot PIN
If you forget your PIN you must reset the device to factory defaults and restore using the recovery phrase. Do not reset the device unless you possess the recovery phrase safely stored, because resetting without the seed will result in permanent loss of access to funds.
Unexpected prompts requesting seed
This is a critical red flag. Never enter your recovery phrase into any software other than the hardware device during the official restore flow. If a prompt appears asking for your seed, disconnect immediately, verify the application source, and consult trusted security contacts. Treat any unsolicited seed request as a scam.
Advanced features and workflows
Ledger supports advanced workflows for higher security and enterprise use. Examples include using a passphrase to create hidden wallets, multisignature setups to distribute signing authority across multiple devices or individuals, and air‑gapped signing where a device never connects to the internet directly. These approaches provide stronger custody models but require formal operational procedures and staff training.
Operational best practices
- Use dedicated machines for signing or administrative tasks if handling large amounts or institutional wallets.
- Maintain an incident response plan that covers lost devices, compromised seeds, and suspected tampering.
- Limit the number of people with physical access to signing devices and establish roles/approvals for high‑value transactions.
- Regularly rehearse recovery and restore operations on test devices to ensure procedures are well understood.
Privacy and record-keeping
Blockchains are public ledgers. Keep clear records of transactions for accounting and tax reporting. Use separate accounts for different purposes to reduce address linkability, and avoid reusing addresses when privacy is a concern. Comply with applicable local laws regarding reporting and record retention.
Legal and support notes
Ledger Live and hardware devices are tools; they do not constitute financial advice. Follow local regulations and consult legal or tax professionals where appropriate. For product-specific issues, rely on established support channels and documented procedures within your organization. Do not share sensitive secrets like recovery phrases with anyone claiming to be support.
Final checklist before you transact
- Confirm you downloaded and verified Ledger Live from a trusted source.
- Ensure the device shows expected onboarding screens and manufacturer indicators.
- Record and securely store the recovery phrase offline.
- Install required apps and add accounts in Ledger Live.
- Verify receiving addresses and perform a small test transaction before moving large amounts.