Getting Started with Ledger® Live

In the rapidly evolving world of cryptocurrencies, security and control are paramount. With a wide range of platforms available for storing and managing digital assets, Ledger® Live stands out as a trusted and user-friendly option. Paired with Ledger hardware wallets such as the Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X, Ledger Live offers users a secure and intuitive interface to manage their crypto holdings.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started with Ledger Live—from installation and setup to managing assets and securing your investment.

What is Ledger Live?

Ledger Live is the official companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. It allows users to manage a wide range of crypto assets, stake tokens, send and receive funds, install apps, and monitor their portfolio—all while keeping their private keys offline in their hardware wallet.

Ledger Live supports over 5,500 tokens and 30+ blockchains, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), Cardano (ADA), and many others.

Why Use Ledger Live?

Here are some of the main benefits of using Ledger Live:

  • Security: Your private keys never leave the Ledger hardware wallet, protecting you against hacks and malware.
  • Control: Full ownership and management of your crypto without relying on third-party custodians.
  • Multi-Asset Support: Manage a diverse range of assets in one place.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive navigation, even for beginners.
  • Advanced Features: Access DeFi, stake tokens, and explore Web3 apps.

Step 1: Downloading Ledger Live

To get started, you need to download the Ledger Live application. It's available on:

  • Desktop: Windows, macOS, Linux
  • Mobile: iOS and Android

To ensure you're downloading the official version, visit: https://www.ledger.com/ledger-live

System Requirements

Ensure your device meets the system requirements. For desktops, you’ll need a modern OS (Windows 10+, macOS 10.14+, Linux Ubuntu 20+). Mobile users need iOS 13+ or Android 8+.

Step 2: Setting Up Your Ledger Device

If you're using a Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X for the first time:

  1. Unbox your device and ensure it’s sealed and untampered.
  2. Connect the device via USB or Bluetooth (Nano X only).
  3. Choose "Set up as new device" if this is your first time.
  4. Create a PIN code (4 to 8 digits) directly on the device.
  5. Write down your 24-word recovery phrase. This is your backup. Never share it and store it securely offline.
⚠️ Tip: Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase. Beware of phishing attempts.

Step 3: Initializing Ledger Live

Once your device is set up, follow these steps in the Ledger Live app:

  1. Launch the app and choose your device model.
  2. Click “Set up a new device” or “Restore device from recovery phrase” if applicable.
  3. Pair your device with the app by following the on-screen instructions.
  4. Check the genuineness of your Ledger device via Ledger Live. It uses a secure element to verify authenticity.
  5. Choose a password lock for the app (optional but recommended).

Step 4: Installing Apps on Your Device

Ledger wallets don’t come with crypto apps pre-installed. Each asset you manage requires an app installed on the device:

  1. Go to the “My Ledger” section.
  2. Connect and unlock your Ledger device.
  3. Choose the app (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) and click “Install”.
  4. The app will be installed onto your Ledger hardware wallet.

Each device has limited storage, but you can uninstall apps without losing funds—wallets are restored as long as your recovery phrase is intact.

Step 5: Adding Accounts

Accounts in Ledger Live allow you to track and manage specific cryptocurrencies:

  1. Click “Accounts” in the sidebar.
  2. Click “Add account”.
  3. Select the crypto asset and follow the prompts.
  4. Ledger Live will sync the blockchain and display your account balance and history.

You can add multiple accounts for the same asset (useful for organization or separating holdings).

Step 6: Receiving Cryptocurrency

To receive crypto:

  1. Click on “Receive”.
  2. Select the account you want to receive funds into.
  3. Verify the address shown in Ledger Live matches the one on your device screen.
  4. Share the address with the sender.

Always confirm the address on the device screen—this ensures it hasn’t been tampered with by malware.

Step 7: Sending Cryptocurrency

To send crypto securely:

  1. Click “Send”.
  2. Select the asset and the sending account.
  3. Enter the recipient’s address and the amount.
  4. Connect and unlock your Ledger device.
  5. Review and approve the transaction on your hardware wallet.

Ledger Live will broadcast the transaction to the blockchain.

Step 8: Staking and Earning

Ledger Live supports staking for various assets like:

  • Ethereum (ETH)
  • Solana (SOL)
  • Polkadot (DOT)
  • Tezos (XTZ)
  • Cosmos (ATOM)

To stake:

  1. Go to the “Earn Rewards” tab or your account.
  2. Click “Stake” or “Delegate”.
  3. Choose a validator and confirm with your Ledger device.

You’ll earn rewards directly into your account over time.

Step 9: Managing Portfolio and Analytics

Ledger Live includes a built-in portfolio tracker that gives you:

  • Real-time price updates
  • Asset allocation breakdown
  • Transaction history
  • Performance over time

Click on the “Portfolio” tab to view detailed analytics and monitor your holdings.

Step 10: Exploring Web3 and DeFi

Ledger Live allows secure access to Web3 applications like:

  • Uniswap
  • Compound
  • Lido
  • Ledger’s Discover section

When interacting with Web3 apps, your private keys remain protected inside the Ledger device, adding a layer of security over browser wallets.

Tips for Maximum Security

  1. Keep your 24-word phrase offline—never store it on your phone or computer.
  2. Use a strong password for Ledger Live and enable device PIN.
  3. Watch for fake Ledger apps or websites—always verify URLs.
  4. Update firmware and apps regularly to stay protected.
  5. Never share your recovery phrase—not even with Ledger Support.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Device not detected? Try a different USB port or cable.
  • Ledger Live stuck on syncing? Restart the app or reset cache in settings.
  • Forgot PIN? You’ll need to reset the device and restore it using your recovery phrase.

Ledger’s Help Center and Community Forums are great resources for further assistance.

Conclusion

Getting started with Ledger Live is a crucial step toward taking full control of your crypto assets. When used in conjunction with a Ledger hardware wallet, the platform provides one of the most secure environments for managing digital currencies.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, Ledger Live gives you the tools to send, receive, store, stake, and grow your portfolio—all while maintaining full custody of your funds.

Take the time to explore its features, stay vigilant about security practices, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your crypto is protected.

Quick Links:

  • Ledger Live Download
  • Ledger Support
  • Ledger Academy